Ankara: An oil tanker exploded in the Strait of Hormuz after striking a naval mine when it veered off a navigation route outlined by Iran, Iranian media reported Sunday.

According to Anadolu Agency, an informed source conveyed to the Defapress news website that the tanker had deviated from the designated route before colliding with the mine in this critical waterway, as reported by the semi-official Mehr News Agency.

Details on casualties, the identity of the vessel, or the extent of the damage remain undisclosed. This incident comes on the heels of a stern warning from Iran on June 26, stating that passage through the Strait of Hormuz is 'only allowed' through routes specified by Tehran.

The incident occurs amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran. In recent weeks, Washington has conducted attacks on Iran, and in retaliation, Tehran has targeted what it claims are US military assets in countries across the region.

On July 8, US President Donald Trump announced the termination of last month's memorandum of understanding with Iran, accusing Tehran of non-compliance with the agreement, an announcement that followed attacks on three tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing disagreements regarding navigation protocols in the strategic corridor.

While Washington advocates for unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, Tehran maintains that vessels should transit through a channel near its coastline, managed under a navigation mechanism it administers.