The super tanker Algaya (IMO number 9325336) collided with naval mines on October 14, 2023, while passing through the restricted area in the southern part of the Strait of Hormuz. This incident led to an explosion and fire on the tanker, and efforts to extinguish the fire were unsuccessful.
Details of the Incident
According to reports, the super tanker Algaya had violated navigation laws by attempting to pass through the restricted area on an illegal route. The Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that this body had warned about the dangers of the illegal route prior to the incident. Following this incident, the entire tanker was engulfed in flames, and control was completely lost.
Control of the Strait of Hormuz
The Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that the Strait of Hormuz is under the smart control of this body, and as a result, following this incident, the Strait of Hormuz has been blocked. These developments demonstrate the IRGC's determination to protect the country's maritime borders and prevent unauthorized passage of tankers through this area.
Recent experience shows that threats posed by naval mines in sensitive water areas must always be taken into account, and preventive measures, including close monitoring of tanker traffic in these areas, are essential.
