Iran STRIKES Two Ships Near Hormuz as Naval Mine Explosions Spark Fresh Shipping Crisis

Oil tankers caught in massive explosions, flames lighting up the waters near the Strait of Hormuz, and now Iran's military is issuing a fresh warning to ships attempting to cross one of the world's most critical oil routes. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy claims the two tankers exploded and caught fire after striking naval mines while attempting to use what Tehran calls an unauthorized shipping route south of the strait. But that's not all. According to the IRGC, the vessels were attempting to pass through the waterway without coordinating with Iranian authorities. The military further claims both ships had switched off their radar and navigation systems, apparently trying to move through the area undetected. One of the vessels was reportedly a supertanker. Iranian state media described the resulting flames as as so intense that they illuminated the southern shores of the strait. The IRGC claims naval mines triggered the explosions, but the details remain unverified. Reuters has reported the Iranian military's account, but there has been no independent confirmation establishing that the vessels struck mines. Their names, flags, crew conditions, and exact locations have also not been disclosed. And this is where the situation becomes even more more concerning. The IRGC is warning shipping companies against using routes without its approval, demanding that vessels coordinate with its traffic control center and follow Iranian arrangements. In other words, Tehran is reinforcing its claim of control over maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz, With tensions between Iran and the United States already running high, another reported incident involving oil tankers could further complicate commercial shipping through this vital energy corridor. But for now, one crucial question remains. Were these tankers actually destroyed by naval mines, as Iran claims? Or is the full story still waiting to emerge? Subscribe to One India and never miss an update. Download the OneIndia app now.