Hot news recap: Iran reports a supertanker explosion caused by a naval mine in the Strait of Hormuz, marking the third incident in two days

1. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard reported on Sunday that a sea mine explosion impacted a supertanker passing through the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire in the engine room. The Revolutionary Guard stated that the tanker was carrying crude oil toward the Persian Gulf exit at the time, but had shut down its navigation system and was traveling on an unauthorized route. Currently, all information regarding the explosion comes from Iranian authorities. 2. Iran stated that this was the third attack on an oil tanker in the past two days and attributed these incidents to the tankers sailing in prohibited zones. The Revolutionary Guard warned that all ships that turn off navigation and identification systems would be regarded as hostile and face severe and decisive consequences. 3. Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and warned that only vessels taking routes authorized by its armed forces are permitted to pass safely. This maritime passage is of strategic importance to international oil transportation, connecting the Persian Gulf to sea routes leading to global markets. 4. The United States insists it has not blocked the strait and claims to maintain military control over the area. However, reports indicate that its military presence is only on the outer parts of the strait. The current situation continues to raise concerns over the safety of navigation in one of the world’s most important oil and gas trade routes.