Tehran: Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that it had targeted an oil tanker attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz 'illegally.'

According to Anadolu Agency, the Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that the oil tanker Athena Nova, which belongs to US allies, was struck by two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) while navigating the strait. The attack resulted in a fire breaking out on the vessel.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial maritime passage, handling approximately one-fifth of the world's traded oil and significant quantities of liquefied natural gas from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Nearly 20% of global daily oil consumption, which is about 20 million barrels, is transported through this strategic corridor.

This incident followed a major offensive launched by the US and Israel against Iran on Saturday, leading to the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian officials, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Iran has conducted drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and regional sites hosting US military assets, escalating tensions throughout the Middle East.