New Delhi .Amidst the ongoing military tension between the United States and Iran, an incident of explosion in three oil tankers has come to light in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. After these incidents, concerns regarding security in the maritime region have increased. Iran has claimed that the three ships were trying to pass through the restricted route instead of the designated and authorized sea routes. According to the Iranian side, these ships had violated safety regulations.
In the video released after the incident, huge plumes of black smoke are seen rising from the oil tankers. Spread of fire and smoke can be seen around the ships in the sea. According to initial information, two of the three tankers were hit by sea mines, while another ship also suffered an explosion while passing through a suspicious sea route. However, detailed information about the damage caused to the ships and the condition of their crew members has not been revealed.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said in its statement that the two oil tankers had completely shut down their navigation and identification systems to cross the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iran, by doing so these ships were trying to avoid the prescribed maritime surveillance system. Officials have described it as an attempt to enter the maritime area in an unauthorized manner.
According to the Iranian side, one of these tankers collided with a landmine laid in the sea, after which there was a massive explosion. At the same time, the other ship tried to pass through the restricted sea route amid the support of American fighter planes. During this time there was an explosion in the ship and it was engulfed in flames. This incident has raised new questions regarding the movement of ships and security arrangements in the Hormuz area.
Another statement was issued by the Iranian Navy at around 8:30 pm on Tuesday night. It was reported that in the afternoon a third oil tanker was also trying to pass through the unauthorized sea route. During this time it came in contact with a sea mine and the ship exploded. In this way, within a few hours, information about three different tankers being affected came to light.
Following these incidents the IRGC issued a strict warning to other ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The organization said that unauthorized sea routes are extremely unsafe and ships using them can be in grave danger. Iranian forces also warned that ships attempting to pass through such routes in cooperation with US forces could face similar consequences. Iran has also taken a tough stance regarding American military activities.
The background of the current tension in Hormuz is related to the joint attacks by America and Israel on February 28. After these attacks, Iran had tightened its surveillance and control system on this sea route. Since then, Iran has adopted a policy of banning the safe movement of ships belonging to America and Israel.
The Strait of Hormuz is a very important route for global maritime trade and oil transportation. In such a situation, the continuous military activities and incidents related to ships can become a serious challenge for international maritime security. At present, the complete situation of Iran's claims and developments regarding the explosions in the three tankers is awaited.