US Denies Iranian Claims of Mines Causing Tanker Explosions in Hormuz Strait

The United States government has refuted claims by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that two oil tankers exploded in the Strait of Hormuz after striking Iranian mines. The U.S. Central Command explicitly labeled the IRGC's assertions as false, characterizing them as part of a disinformation campaign amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.

The IRGC had issued a statement alleging that the two vessels detonated after entering a maritime minefield south of the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian organization further claimed the tankers were deceived by U.S. intelligence agencies, leading to a significant fire post-detonation. However, the IRGC did not identify the ships involved or report any casualties or damage.

This exchange follows the U.S. Central Command's re-imposition of a naval blockade on Iranian ports and vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The blockade was enacted two days after Iran had warned of potential closures of the vital waterway in response to U.S. bombings. Iran has retaliated against U.S. actions with missile and drone strikes targeting American interests in various Middle Eastern countries.