Gaza Herald – The Public Relations Department of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Naval Force announced that two large oil tankers collided with a sea mine while attempting to pass through the southern unauthorized route of the Strait of Hormuz.
The department stated in a press release that the explosion caused engine rooms on both vessels to malfunction and triggered severe fires, forcing them to stop in place. The incident occurred as the ships navigated the restricted area.
According to the statement, the two tankers were carrying more than 4.5 million barrels of crude oil combined. They were left stranded off the southern coast of the Strait of Hormuz following the collision with the underwater explosive device.
The report indicated that the crews of both vessels evacuated the ships after the accident. No further details regarding injuries or specific identities of the tankers were provided in the initial announcement from the Iranian military branch.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the strategic waterway, where unauthorized passage attempts have previously led to security interventions by regional forces. The Southern Route remains a sensitive zone for maritime traffic control.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps emphasized the severity of the damage sustained by the vessels due to the mine impact. The engines were rendered inoperable, leaving the ships vulnerable until assistance could be arranged or they were towed to safety.
This event adds to the list of maritime incidents reported in the region recently. Security forces continue to monitor the strait closely to prevent further violations of the designated shipping lanes.
The announcement serves as an official confirmation of the collision, dispelling earlier rumors about mechanical failures or other causes for the sudden halt of the large vessels in the busy corridor.
This report was produced in the Gaza Herald newsroom.
