Iran Guards say their mines halted two tankers crossing Strait of Hormuz
Iranian Revolutionary Guards reported that they used naval mines to halt two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming the vessels were using illegal routes. This incident occurs amidst ongoing regional conflict following the deaths of Iranian leadership earlier in 2026.
Why it matters
The escalation of hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz threatens global oil supply chains and increases the risk of a wider regional war.
Iran Guards say their mines halted two tankers crossing Strait of Hormuz left Iran has attempted to blockade the Strait, demanding all ships seek its authorisation to cross. File Reuters Reuters https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/jqnjpt/article71605259.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/2026-10-20T060010Z_1765538580_RC2L3LAI6608_RTRMADP_3_OIL-MAJORS-RESULTS-PREVIEW.JPG Amr Alfiky FILE PHOTO: Oil/Chemical Tanker "Bald Man" at the Port of Fujairah, as the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran limits marine traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates, May 6, 2026. REUTERS/Amr Alfiky/File Photo Iranian forces have repeatedly targeted ships attempting to pass through Hormuz via a southern route close to the Omani coast Tehran, Iran Iranian Revolutionary Guards said on Tuesday (October 20, 2026) that their naval mines halted two tankers attempting to travel the Strait of Hormuz via routes considered illegal by Tehran.
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