An oil tanker named EL GAIA caught fire after encountering naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The incident occurred as the tanker attempted to navigate through a route Iranian authorities had deemed off-limits. Efforts to extinguish the flames were unsuccessful, according to the IRGC Navy.
The IRGC reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz is currently under Iranian naval control and remains closed. Warnings had previously been issued regarding the dangers of using the restricted route, which is located south of this critical maritime corridor. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital passage for global energy supplies, and disruptions in shipping through the area have sparked concerns about potential impacts on international energy markets.
In addition to the IRGC’s statements, Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority cautioned insurance companies, protection and indemnity insurers, and classification societies against offering services to vessels found violating the imposed restrictions on maritime traffic.
This development comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Following US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, Iran intensified its control over the strait. Concurrently, US forces have implemented a naval blockade targeting ships traveling to and from Iranian ports, further complicating the situation in this strategically significant waterway.