Tehran: Amidst the ongoing tension between Iran and America in the Middle East, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz seems to be becoming more serious. On Saturday, three oil tankers caught fire in this strategic sea route. According to the Iranian Navy, all three ships hit naval mines laid in the sea. One of the tankers was hit by mines off the eastern side of Hormuz in the morning, while two other ships were hit later in the day. After this incident, concern has also increased regarding the safety of other ships passing through the sea route.
How did the three oil tankers catch fire?
According to a report, an oil tanker hit a naval mine in the eastern part of the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday morning. Later in the day, two other tankers also got hit by mines laid in the sea.
Iran’s government news agency IRNA quoted the Revolutionary Guards Navy as saying that the two tankers that came under fire in the evening were trying to pass through the restricted sea route. The Iranian Navy claims that after hitting the mines, the ships experienced massive explosions and fire.
Why did two tankers return after Iran’s warning?
Two other ships had to divert their course amid incidents of tanker fire in Hormuz. According to Iran’s state TV, both these tankers were also trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday.
However, after receiving a warning from the Iranian Navy, they postponed the decision to proceed further and returned towards the Persian Gulf. From this, the increasing apprehensions regarding the movement of ships in the area can be gauged.
Why did Iran ban ships passing through Hormuz?
Iran has imposed several restrictions on the movement of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. It says that ships violating these rules can be targeted. Iran wants to strengthen its control over this important sea route. Through this he is also trying to put pressure on America.
What are sea mines?
Marine mines are explosive devices laid under water. These are used to damage enemy ships. When a ship comes in contact with them, a massive explosion can occur. This can cause huge damage to the ship and even cause fire.
Why is the Strait of Hormuz important for the world?
The Strait of Hormuz is an important sea route located between Iran and Oman. It connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. A large amount of oil and gas from countries like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar and United Arab Emirates reaches other parts of the world through this route.
In such a situation, due to the movement of ships being affected here, the supply of oil in the international market may be affected. However, reports of tankers hitting mines and catching fire have not been independently confirmed by Reuters.
