TEHRAN: Iran has issued a fresh warning to commercial vessels and oil tankers operating in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that ships must obtain permission before passing through the strategic waterway.
The Iranian military emphasized that the country maintains firm control over the Strait of Hormuz and cautioned that any attempt to navigate the route without authorization could pose significant risks.
The military warned that ships failing to comply with the new instructions could face consequences and would be responsible for any resulting damages. The statement indicates Iran’s continued efforts to strengthen oversight of maritime traffic in one of the world’s most important energy transit corridors.
The warning comes amid increased regional attention on security and navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route through which a substantial portion of the world’s oil supplies is transported.
Iranian military officials further stated that full operational control of the Strait of Hormuz remains under the authority of the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
In this regard, the announcement also follows reports that Iran plans to provide special facilities and arrangements for Russian and Chinese vessels operating in the region.
However, Iranian authorities did not release additional details regarding the nature or scope of these measures.
According to the IRGC, maritime traffic through the strait has continued despite the latest warning. Officials reported that 20 vessels successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz during the past 24 hours, highlighting the continued movement of commercial shipping in the area.
