The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy hit a third supertanker in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, October 12, 2026, triggering an onboard blaze after the vessel failed to comply with maritime directives, ANI News reported. According to Press TV, the Iranian naval force confirmed that the tanker had switched off its navigation system and ignored prior warnings before attempting to leave the strategic waterway and disrupt order and security.
This incident marks the third vessel targeted in the strategic waterway within a 48-hour window. The string of maritime events has drawn immediate diplomatic and governmental responses, particularly from Indian authorities monitoring the safety of regional seafarers.
Projectiles Strike Marshall Islands-Flagged Tanker
In a separate incident on October 11, 2026, the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker M/T Valthera was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in an onboard fire. The vessel was carrying 11 Indian seafarers. MoPSW Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that all 11 crew members aboard the M/T Valthera are safe. Indian authorities remain in direct contact with the ship management company to ensure the ongoing safety and wellbeing of the crew.
Tehran Claims Control of the Energy Corridor
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei asserted that Tehran maintains total control over the crucial energy corridor. Baghaei warned that security cannot return to the region as long as foreign military aggression and economic blockades persist.
Dismissing the American account of the situation, Baghaei emphasized that market realities contradict Washington’s official narrative. According to Press TV coverage cited in economic reporting, Baghaei stated that American claims do not correspond to conditions observed on the ground.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Strait of Hormuz Incidents
Which vessels were involved in the October 11 attacks?
The targeted vessels include the Nicaragua-flagged tanker MT Petro Dolphin at Sohar Anchorage and the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker M/T Valthera in the Strait of Hormuz.
How many Indian nationals were affected across these incidents?
The incidents involved multiple crews, including 11 seafarers on the MT Petro Dolphin—two of whom remain missing—11 crew members safely accounted for on the M/T Valthera, and 22 crew members safe aboard the MT GEM NO. 2 from an earlier October 9 attack.
What justification did the IRGC Navy provide for hitting the third supertanker?
According to Press TV, the IRGC Navy stated that the third supertanker had switched off its navigation system and ignored warnings before attempting to leave the strait and disrupt order and security.
Related reading