Iran seized control of the Strait of Hormuz after a war with the US and Israel erupted in late February, disrupting a route carrying a fifth of global oil. (EPA Images pic)TEHRAN: Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Monday an oil tanker caught fire in the Strait of Hormuz after hitting a mine, the latest such incident since Tehran tightened its grip on the waterway.

Iran seized control of the strait after a war broke out against the US and Israel in late February, choking off the vital shipping route which normally carries about a fifth of the world's oil.

The Islamic republic has demanded that all ships seek its authorisation before transiting.

"An oil tanker, which was in violation, struck a naval mine south of the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in an explosion and a fire in its engine room," Iranian state media quoted the Guards as saying.