Supertanker Catches Fire After Projectile Hit in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

A supertanker was hit on its port side by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, causing a fire that burned the vessel in the water, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the ship struck one of its naval mines and released video of the blaze, reiterating its warning that any vessel crossing the strait without permission would face severe consequences.

"A devastating fire is the fate of any tanker that violates the rules and disregards security in the Strait of Hormuz," the IRGC statement read.

The incident follows a recent surge in attacks on commercial vessels in the narrow waterway, with the United Nations International Maritime Organization reporting at least 11 tanker strikes in the week ending Oct. 4, the highest number since the conflict began in February. Another ten attacks were recorded the previous week, including an incident that injured 12 Indian crew members aboard the UAE-owned On Peace tanker.

U.S. Central Command confirmed that a U.S. fighter jet struck the stern of the Panama-flagged cargo ship M/V Ocean Molica (also known as Arika Sun) with a precision munition, disabling its propulsion without harming the crew. The vessel had reportedly docked at an Iranian port and was attempting to reach international waters.

U.S. forces have disabled four ships and turned back about 135 others since the naval blockade was reinstated three months ago, as crude oil shipments continue under U.S. escort.