Fresh claims of tanker explosions in the Strait of Hormuz, warnings of renewed Israel–Iran fighting, and fresh strikes on a Yemeni oil facility dominate this morning's news, while crypto markets edge higher and a key token migration begins today.
IRGC Navy claims two tankers hit naval mines in Strait of Hormuz
Iran's Revolutionary Guards Navy claims two oil tankers, including a supertanker, exploded after striking naval mines while travelling on an unauthorised route through the Strait of Hormuz. The vessels allegedly switched off their navigation and identification systems and ignored repeated warnings. The claim, carried by Press TV, is distinct from the UK maritime agency's report of a separate vessel struck by an unknown projectile in the strait on Sunday, and has not yet been independently verified.
Israel reportedly preparing for possible renewed fighting with Iran within days
Israel is preparing for the possibility of renewed fighting with Iran within days, according to Al Hadath, citing an Israeli official. The report comes as diplomatic efforts continue in Doha and ahead of the United States midterm elections on November 3, after which further action has not been ruled out.
Two air raids target oil facility in Yemen's Hodeidah
Two air raids struck an oil facility in the Bajil district of Yemen's Hodeidah governorate, according to Houthi-affiliated Al Masirah TV. The strikes are distinct from the Saudi strikes on a pier and a vessel in a Yemeni port reported earlier, underlining rising tension along Red Sea shipping routes.
Crypto watch: no new delistings, but key deadlines arrive this week
No new spot exchange delisting announcements emerged in the latest check. Holders should note three imminent deadlines: Coinbase's conversion of VELO to AERO begins today, November 2; Binance withdrawals for ICX, SCRT and STORJ close tomorrow, November 3; and Coinbase's STG and PYR suspensions plus Bitvavo's PTB deadline fall on November 6.
Market snapshot
Bitcoin traded near $78,340, up about 1% from the previous check, while Ether stood near $2,274, up about 0.8%. Brent crude's January contract held near $113.84, flat from Friday's close, with weekend markets closed. Also opening today: the International Maritime Organization council session in London, where Iran's dossier on alleged attacks on its shipping is set for review.
Sources
- IRGC Navy tanker-mine claim — ANI, November 2, via Press TV
- Israel preparing for possible renewed fighting — Al Hadath, via Times of India live blog, November 2
- Hodeidah oil facility air raids — Al Masirah TV, via Times of India live blog, November 2
- Crypto deadlines and market prices — exchange notices and Finnhub live data, as recorded in the news watch state, November 2
- Hormuz vessel reports corroborated on social media — Arab News post, November 1: UK agency reports vessel strike in Hormuz; Iran's Guards say tankers hit mines
