Tanker Explodes in Strait of Hormuz After Hitting Naval Mine

An oil tanker has exploded in the Strait of Hormuz after hitting a naval mine while deviating from an Iranian-designated navigation route, according to Iranian media.

The incident occurred when the tanker strayed from the designated route, resulting in a collision with the mine, as reported by Mehr News Agency and Defapress news website.

No information is available on casualties or damage, but tensions have been escalating between the US and Iran in recent weeks. The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point for these tensions, with Washington calling for unrestricted passage through the waterway, while Tehran insists that vessels must transit through a channel near its coastline under an administered navigation mechanism.