Accra:Tehran A supertanker transporting more than 2 million barrels of crude oil exploded and caught fire after hitting a naval mine south of the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by the Navy of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

According to Anadolu Agency, the IRGC stated that the tanker was committing violations, having switched off all its radar and navigation systems. The vessel ignored warnings from the IRGC Navy and attempted to exit the strait through an 'unauthorized southern route' before it struck the mine.

The IRGC Navy did not disclose the identity of the vessel or provide any information regarding its flag, crew, potential casualties, or the extent of the damage. It emphasized the responsibility of vessel owners and crews in the Gulf and the Sea of Oman to avoid unauthorized routes and stated that any actions compromising the security of the strait would be dealt with decisively.