Iranian tanker explodes after hitting mines south of Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced on Monday that the giant oil tanker Al-Gaia exploded after hitting sea mines while attempting to cross a restricted area south of the Strait of Hormuz, confirming that the vessel is now completely surrounded by fire.

In a statement, the IRGC Navy Command said efforts to control the blaze onboard the tanker had failed, adding that flames had engulfed the entire vessel.

The Revolutionary Guard warned of the dangers of passing through what it described as an "illegal" area, reaffirming its stance on the strait. "We have previously warned of the dangers of this illegal passage. The Strait of Hormuz is closed and remains under our intelligent control," the statement said.