TEHRAN (News Desk) – The naval wing of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced that a large oil tanker caught fire following a powerful explosion after striking a mine in the southern part of the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the IRGC's official news agency, the affected vessel has been identified as the "Algaya," which attempted to pass through a "prohibited" route in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials stated that all efforts to control the fire failed and the entire vessel was engulfed in flames.

The IRGC clarified in its statement that warnings had already been issued regarding the dangers of using this particular maritime route. Iranian authorities once again emphasised that the Strait of Hormuz remains under the complete surveillance and control of their naval forces.

Significance of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most critical maritime trade routes, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes. Any incident along this route can trigger concerns in global energy markets.

Conflict Background

The incident occurred at a time when tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are at their peak, with growing security concerns over this vital oil transit route. It may be recalled that earlier this month, the United States launched large-scale attacks in Iran's southern Hormozgan province, after which Iran also announced retaliatory action .