Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy has reported an explosion aboard an LNG carrier after the vessel allegedly struck a naval mine while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement, the IRGC Navy said the incident occurred in the eastern section of the strategic waterway, claiming that the tanker was following what it described as an “unauthorised and dangerous route”.

According to the Iranian force, the vessel hit a naval mine, triggering a powerful explosion on board. The statement further claimed that the ship had been attempting to navigate through the area with the support of US fighter jets.

Tehran issues warning to vessels navigating the strait

The IRGC Navy used the incident to reiterate its position on maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that vessels must comply with its navigation rules and warnings.

The force said that its control over the waterway was being enforced with determination and warned that ships attempting to use routes it considers unauthorised could face the same consequences as previous vessels.

“The Strait of Hormuz is being managed with full determination and seriousness. Any vessel attempting to violate Iran’s regulations in the Strait of Hormuz and enter unauthorised and dangerous routes without heeding the warnings of the IRGC Navy Strait of Hormuz Traffic Control Centre will share the same fate as previous vessels.”

The announcement places renewed attention on maritime navigation and security in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important passage for international energy shipping.

The information concerning the mine strike, the explosion and the vessel's alleged movements was provided by the IRGC Navy. No further details about the vessel's identity, the extent of the damage or possible casualties were included in the statement.