Multiple oil tankers struck by explosions in the Strait of Hormuz

On October 27 and 29, 2026, a series of maritime incidents occurred in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian military reported that several oil tankers were set ablaze after striking naval mines while navigating unauthorized routes with disabled tracking systems. While initial reports from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps mentioned three vessels, subsequent Iranian state reports increased the count to four tankers. Simultaneously, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported separate incidents, including a vessel burning nine nautical miles north of Khasab, Oman, and another tanker hit by explosive devices placed on its hull by a small boat.

There is significant discrepancy between the reports provided by Iranian authorities and international maritime agencies. Iran claims the vessels were violating navigation regulations, while the United States maintains that it has cleared the area of mines. Additionally, the Revolutionary Guard claimed to have seized a U.S. surveillance drone in the vicinity. International maritime agencies, including the UKMTO, have not confirmed the Iranian account of mass mine strikes and have warned ships to exercise extreme caution while transiting the area. Investigations into these incidents remain ongoing as tensions rise between Tehran and Washington, particularly following reports of potential U.S. strikes after upcoming midterms.