Updated

Iran's IRGC Navy reported that a supertanker carrying crude oil exploded after striking a naval mine while attempting to exit the Strait of Hormuz via what Tehran called an 'unauthorized route,' with the vessel left burning. Separately, a tanker was attacked off the coast of Qatar, roughly 300 miles west of the strait, causing an unknown number of casualties, as Iran declared it would 'close' a route being used to circumvent its blockade. These incidents come amid an intensifying naval standoff in the Gulf, with oil prices rising above $100 a barrel as attacks on shipping hit new highs and Iran's army commander warned that Iran would strike enemy vessels again if attacked further.