A supertanker hit mines after trying to use an "illegal route" in the southern part of the Strait of Hormuz, Fars reported, citing a statement from the naval forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
According to the IRGC, the vessel struck two mines. The incident occurred several hours earlier.
"The IRGC Navy once again warns that vessels violating the rules for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will face exactly this fate. Compliance with the rules announced by the IRGC Navy on transit through and navigation in the strait is mandatory," the IRGC Navy said.
The report did not provide details about the vessel’s owners, whether it was carrying cargo or its possible destination.
Earlier, it was reported that the U.S. military has forced crews of 83 commercial vessels to change their course since Washington resumed its maritime blockade of Iranian ports, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said.
"As of Aug. 30, CENTCOM forces have redirected 83 commercial vessels, disabled 3 and boarded 2 to ensure compliance with the blockade," CENTCOM said.
The U.S. resumed its maritime blockade of Iran on July 14.
