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According to international media reports, the IRGC said in a statement issued on Saturday that although some vessels had recently passed through the strait, restrictions imposed by the United States on Iranian ships and ports remain in effect. In response, Iran has moved to enforce strict control over maritime traffic in the area.
The IRGC warned that vessels currently operating in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman must not move without authorization. It stated that any attempt to approach the Strait of Hormuz without permission could be considered as cooperation with hostile forces and may lead to direct targeting.
The statement also included specific instructions for ship owners and crews, urging them to rely only on official communication channels provided by the IRGC Navy. It described recent remarks by the United States president regarding the strait as unacceptable.
Iranian military authorities have previously accused the United States of failing to uphold commitments related to negotiations and of continuing naval restrictions on vessels bound for Iranian ports. In light of this, Tehran has decided to reinstate what it described as strict control measures in the strait.
The IRGC made clear that tight control over the waterway will continue until full freedom of navigation is ensured for vessels heading to Iran.
Analysts note that the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, and any disruption there can have immediate consequences for global oil prices. Iran’s move is therefore being viewed not only as a military action but also as a strategic effort to increase diplomatic pressure.
The latest developments suggest that the ongoing standoff between Iran and the United States is entering a more complex phase centered around the Strait of Hormuz, with potential implications for global economic stability and security.
Source: Al Jazeera