Oil tankers ablaze after incidents in the Strait of Hormuz

Since early November 2026, multiple oil tankers have caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz after allegedly striking naval mines while navigating unauthorized routes. Iranian state media and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported that vessels had deactivated their tracking systems prior to the explosions. The incidents occurred near key locations, including the island of Qeshm, Sirik, Jask, and Bandar Abbas. While early reports suggested potential external bombardment, Iranian officials later attributed the blasts to military operations and naval mines, denying claims of foreign airstrikes on their territory.

The region remains highly volatile following the escalation of regional tensions in late February 2026. The United States has enforced a blockade on Iranian ports, while Iran asserts control over the strategic maritime route, which previously handled one-fifth of global hydrocarbons. Washington claims to have been removing mines from the area, contradicting Tehran's narrative. On November 11, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed receiving reports of a new incident involving an oil tanker in the strait, though details regarding crew status and environmental impact remain unverified. The recurring strikes have disrupted the flow of energy and goods, causing concern for international shipping security.