Tehran Strikes Oil Tanker in Strait of Hormuz Amid Escalating Regional Tensions

Iran has struck an oil tanker attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, according to the country's Revolutionary Guard Corps. The tanker, identified as the Togo-flagged vessel Trend, was reportedly targeted for its 'illegal attempt' to pass through the waterway.

Tehran has asserted control over the strait since the US and Israel launched a military operation on February 28. The Guard's navy warned that unauthorized passage would result in the 'destruction' of offending vessels.

Meanwhile, South Korea is considering expanding its naval operations in the Gulf of Aden off Yemen and Somalia to protect its ships and oil shipping routes. President Lee Jae Myung stressed that the country would not take action that draws it into the US-Iran conflict.