Oil Tanker Catches Fire After Hitting Naval Mine in Strait of Hormuz

Summary: An oil tanker caught fire after colliding with a naval mine in the Strait of Hormuz. Houthi rebels in Yemen have claimed responsibility for launching three ballistic missiles at Saudi Arabia’s Jazan oil refinery. The US Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain has alleged attacks by Iran involving drones and missiles. Kathmandu, 11th Shrawan — An oil tanker caught fire after hitting a naval mine in the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Iranian news agencies, the tanker, which had deviated from the maritime route designated by Tehran, struck a naval mine while taking an alternate route.

Iran had previously warned that vessel operators who do not follow its designated route would bear full responsibility. However, Iranian officials have yet to issue any official statement regarding the incident. Neither the extent of damage nor any casualties have been confirmed thus far.

This marks the first time since the military conflict between the United States and Iran began in February that a ship has struck a naval mine. Iran had deployed naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz during the conflict. Following a ceasefire, US President Donald Trump ordered their removal.

Meanwhile, five other significant incidents pertaining to regional security have been reported in the last 24 hours.