Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced that two oil tankers exploded after hitting mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The Guards claim the tankers were misled by American intelligence agencies into a minefield. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) denied the claim, calling it false. Additionally, the Guards reported stopping four ships attempting to transit the strait with US support.
Iran's Claim and US Denial
According to a statement by Iran's Revolutionary Guards published by state news agency IRNA, two oil tankers attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz hit mines and exploded. The Guards accuse American intelligence agencies of misleading the tankers into a minefield. In response, CENTCOM issued a denial on X, stating that the claim is false.
Strait of Hormuz Tensions
The Revolutionary Guards also reported stopping four ships trying to transit the Strait of Hormuz, alleging they were supported by the US army. Iran has virtually closed the strait for a week, seeking to control the vital waterway. The US has reimposed a navy blockade against Iranian ports and conducted airstrikes in Iran in response to Tehran's threats to shipping in the strait.
Background and Context
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with about a fifth of the world's petroleum passing through it. Tensions have been high as Iran seeks to assert control over the strait, warning tankers and cargo ships to use channels close to its coastline. The US has been attempting to protect southern corridors, leading to increased military activity in the region.
