Iran says a gas tanker struck a naval mine in the Strait of Hormuz, following explosions involving four oil tankers in the strategic shipping route.
A tanker carrying liquefied natural gas (LNG) reportedly suffered an explosion in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, November 13, according to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Navy.
Iranian state media reported that the vessel struck a naval mine while travelling through a route that Iranian authorities described as unauthorised and dangerous.
The Iranian military did not immediately provide the name of the tanker, its country of registration or details about possible casualties.
The latest incident follows reports of explosions involving four oil tankers in the same waterway on Wednesday and Thursday. Iran’s military said the vessels had ignored warnings and entered areas it considered restricted.
According to Iranian officials, two tankers were disabled by explosions on Wednesday, while two others reportedly caught fire after striking mines on Thursday.
However, Reuters said it could not independently verify Iran’s account of the incidents.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), which monitors maritime security, separately reported that a commercial vessel was struck by an unidentified projectile northwest of Ras Al-Khaimah in the United Arab Emirates. The incident caused a fire in the vessel’s engine room, but all crew members were evacuated safely.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, connecting the Persian Gulf with international markets. A significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies passes through the narrow waterway.
The continuing incidents have raised concerns about the safety of commercial shipping, global energy supplies and the possibility of higher transportation and fuel costs.
