Accra:Hormuz A supertanker carrying over two million barrels of crude oil exploded and caught fire after hitting a naval mine south of the Strait of Hormuz, as announced by Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the tanker had turned off all its radar and navigation systems and was attempting to exit through the southern, unauthorized route of the strait despite warnings from Iranian naval forces. This led to the vessel striking a naval mine, resulting in an explosion and subsequent fire.

The IRGC Navy has issued a warning that vessel owners and crews operating in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman will be held accountable for using unauthorized routes. They further emphasized that any actions disregarding the security of the Strait of Hormuz would face a firm response.