Iranian Revolutionary Guard announces complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz, two oil tankers explode and catch fire

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran issued a statement on the 18th stating that two oil tankers exploded and caught fire while passing through a mined area in the southern Strait of Hormuz. The statement claimed that due to recent U.S. military actions, the Strait of Hormuz has been "completely closed," and until the U.S. ceases its military operations against Iran, oil and gas transportation through the strait will not be possible, and vessels should avoid entering the mined area. The statement did not disclose the nationalities of the two oil tankers, nor the casualties or losses. (Jinshi)