IRGC: Violating oil tanker hits mine in Strait of Hormuz

TEHRAN, Oct. 19 (YPA) – A tanker violating regulations in the Strait of Hormuz struck a naval mine south of the strategic waterway, triggering an explosion and fire in its engine room, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy said.

In a statement issued early Monday, the IRGC Navy’s public relations office explained that the tanker was attempting to exit the strait after switching off all its positioning and navigation systems at its point of departure.

The vessel was attempting to pass through an unauthorized southern route in disregard of regulations governing transit through the strait, the statement added.

The IRGC Navy warned that vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf would face a firm response if they switched off their navigation and identification systems.

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