DID Press: Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy says two oil tankers have caught fire after striking naval mines while attempting to pass through what Iran described as unauthorised routes in and near the Strait of Hormuz.
According to a statement by the IRGC Navy, one tanker was hit by a mine east of the Strait of Hormuz, while the second struck a mine within the strait. Both vessels were reportedly engulfed in intense fires.
The statement said the tankers had committed multiple violations and switched off their navigation and positioning systems while attempting to transit through a prohibited route.
The IRGC Navy warned that any ship cooperating with what it called the “aggressor and plundering US military”, violating Iranian regulations governing passage through the Strait of Hormuz, or entering restricted areas would face the risk of striking naval mines.
It also urged vessels not to pay attention to what it described as “wishful thinking” by the commander of US Central Command (CENTCOM).