The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported that an oil tanker named EL GAIA caught fire after striking naval mines while attempting to navigate through a forbidden route in the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC Navy specified that the tanker was trying to pass through a restricted area south of the crucial maritime corridor when the incident occurred. Iranian officials noted that efforts to extinguish the flames were unsuccessful.
Previously, Iranian authorities had issued warnings about the perils of using the prohibited route. The IRGC reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and is under the control of Iranian naval forces. This strategic waterway is a vital conduit for global oil and gas supplies, and the restrictions have heightened concerns about potential disruptions in international energy markets.
Additionally, Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority has cautioned insurance companies, protection and indemnity insurers, as well as classification societies against offering services to vessels identified as violating the imposed maritime traffic restrictions. This situation follows increased control over the strait by Iran, which came in response to US-Israeli strikes on Iran that took place on February 28.
The United States has implemented a naval blockade targeting vessels traveling to and from Iranian ports, further intensifying the situation. These developments underscore the ongoing tensions and their impact on one of the world’s most important energy routes, potentially affecting global energy supply chains.