Tanker Explodes Attempting to Cross Mine-laden Strait of Hormuz

Three oil tankers attempted to cross a mined area in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in one vessel exploding, according to a statement from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Thursday. “Three oil tankers supporting the United States tried to cross a route that had been mined south of the Strait of Hormuz. After one of the tankers exploded and caught fire, the other two immediately turned around and retreated,” the IRGC said, as quoted by Press TV. The IRGC stated that no tankers would be permitted to enter or exit. “Any vessel that falls into America’s trap and attempts to cross without coordination with the Islamic Republic of Iran will meet the same fate,” the IRGC asserted. “The mined southern route of the Strait of Hormuz will destroy your investments. Do not fall for America’s deception,” said Mohebbi. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump also threatened to destroy a bridge or power plant in Iran, including in Tehran, for every attack Iran launches against ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz.