Four tankers hit mines in Strait of Hormuz, Iran's IRGC claims

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps alleged on Tuesday that four tankers struck mines after using unauthorised routes through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. The IRGC did not immediately provide details on the extent of damage to the vessels or their current status.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of regional tensions, with approximately one-third of global seaborne crude oil passing through the narrow waterway annually. Maritime incidents in the area have raised concerns among international shipping authorities and trading nations dependent on energy supplies transiting the route.

The IRGC's statement emphasised that the tankers had deviated from designated shipping corridors, suggesting the incidents occurred in areas where vessel navigation is restricted or discouraged. Officials did not clarify the circumstances under which the mines were deployed or provide evidence supporting their claims.

Iran has previously accused external actors of destabilising maritime traffic in the Persian Gulf. Regional maritime security remains volatile, with multiple nations maintaining naval presences in the area and commercial shipping operators implementing enhanced safety protocols.