Two Oil Tankers Burn After Hitting Mines in Strait of Hormuz

Two oil tankers caught fire after hitting mines in the Strait of Hormuz while attempting to pass an unauthorized route, according to Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Explosions were reported in southern Iran, including on Qeshm Island. Iranian state television suggested the blasts may relate to military activities in the waterway. The US military said it disabled a merchant vessel attempting to breach its blockade against Iran. A separate incident occurred in the Gulf of Oman, east of Khor Fakkan, UAE. The UKMTO reported the Gulf of Oman incident but did not identify the military forces involved. Crew condition, damage extent, and environmental impact remain unknown. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for international oil trade amid US-Iran tensions.