Iranian media report tanker exploded in Strait of Hormuz after leaving designated route and striking a mine

Mehr News Agency reported on Sunday 26 July 2026 that a tanker exploded in the Strait of Hormuz after striking a naval mine. According to the report, the vessel had switched off its radar system and had left the route Iran designated for passage through the waterway. The news site Eghtesad Online carried the same report.

Mehr said initial assessments indicated the tanker had deviated from the designated corridor despite earlier warnings and had moved into an area outside the safe navigation route. Iran has repeatedly warned that vessels leaving the announced route would bear consequences and responsibility for doing so.

As of publication the vessel's name and owner had not been disclosed, and no official Iranian body had confirmed the incident. International news outlets have relayed the report citing Iranian media and noting the absence of official confirmation.