A new development has emerged that could further escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said two oil tankers struck mines and stopped following explosions.
Iran's semi-official Fars News Agency published a written statement issued by the IRGC's Public Relations Department.
“The tankers are currently on fire”
The statement claimed that the two tankers attempted to pass through a route deemed “illegal” by Iran under the encouragement of the US military after evacuating their crews.
The IRGC said the tankers struck mines, exploded and then stopped, adding that the vessels are currently on fire.
Iranian authorities did not provide any information on the countries to which the tankers belong.
Iran threatens sanctions on shipping companies
The statement noted that the IRGC Navy had previously warned of the risks of using routes in the area where mines were reportedly laid.
Iran said additional sanctions would be imposed on shipping companies that follow US instructions instead of using the “legal route” and make their vessels available to US forces.
Tehran signalled that the sanctions could be implemented soon.
Tensions rise again in the Strait of Hormuz
The statement regarding the oil tankers has renewed security concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, which is critical to global energy trade.
Any disruption to maritime traffic in the strait or increased risks to the safe passage of vessels is being closely monitored by global energy markets, particularly oil markets.
Following Iran's statement regarding the tankers, attention has turned to further details of the incident and any potential response from the US.
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