Seven tankers ablaze or damaged in Persian Gulf; Iran claims mine strikes near Hormuz

Iran's IRGC claims responsibility for mine strikes on multiple oil tankers (2-7 vessels reported) in the Arabian Gulf/Strait of Hormuz, causing fires and damage. Concurrently, Tehran has issued explicit threats to target US bases in the region and sever undersea internet cables if US-facilitated shipping continues without Iranian consent. These actions and threats represent a significant escalation in maritime conflict and rhetoric, though specific details on tanker identities and the extent of damage remain partially unconfirmed.