Tehran, July 26 (dpa/GNA) – An oil tanker has reportedly struck a sea mine and exploded in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian media reported on Sunday.
The tanker had strayed from a designated route, according to the Defapress and Tasnim news agencies, which are close to the Iranian military and Revolutionary Guards.
The vessel had previously switched off its radar system, the agencies said. No further details were given. Neither the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM), which is responsible for the region, nor the British maritime security authority UKMTO has confirmed the incident.
The Strait of Hormuz plays a key role in global energy trade. Iran requires commercial vessels to adhere to a designated passage through the strait, and claims control over the waterway.
GNA