Explosions reported in Strait of Hormuz as tankers may have hit mines

Several powerful explosions were reported Thursday in the southern passage of the Strait of Hormuz, possibly after oil tankers struck naval mines, Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported, citing military sources.

The blasts occurred minutes before the broadcaster’s report, which said the tankers may have been travelling on routes Iran considers unauthorized.

The report gave no details about how many vessels may have been involved or identified them. It also did not say whether there were casualties or damage.

The reported explosions come amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has warned vessels against using routes not authorized by Tehran.