Tehran: Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that two tankers caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz early Tuesday, following an explosion that occurred after the vessels attempted to navigate a route deemed unsafe by the IRGC. The explosions led the tankers to halt their passage through the strategic waterway.

According to Anadolu Agency, the IRGC reported that rescue operations were underway to evacuate the crew members from the affected vessels. The Corps issued a warning to shipping companies, advising them to avoid relying on US military guidance, which they claim led to the choice of the hazardous route.

The IRGC emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed as long as US military actions persist in the region. They also noted that punitive operations targeting US bases had commenced in response to what they described as maritime violations.

Tensions in the region have been escalating, with the US increasing its military actions against Iran. In retaliation, Iran has launched strikes on facilities and bases it accuses of being used by the US military in various countries. This exchange of hostilities continues despite a memorandum of understanding brokered by Pakistan in June, aimed at ending the conflict and achieving a long-term peace agreement.