Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared that its forces have full control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, warning that any hostile move by adversaries could result in severe consequences.
In a statement posted in Persian on social media, the Guards’ naval command said all maritime traffic in the vital shipping lane is being monitored and controlled by Iranian armed forces. It warned that any “miscalculation” by opposing forces would see them “trapped in a deadly vortex,” accompanied by footage showing vessels targeted in crosshairs.
Despite the warning, the IRGC maintained that the strait remains open to civilian vessels, provided they comply with unspecified regulations. However, it cautioned that any military ships attempting to approach the area “under any pretext” would be treated as violating the ceasefire and would face a strong response.
The statement comes after US President Donald Trump ordered a naval blockade of the waterway, a key route for global oil shipments.
In a separate message on his social media platform, Trump said the United States aims to eventually clear the strait of mines and fully restore safe passage for international shipping. He added that Iran should not benefit from its control of the crucial maritime corridor.
Iran imposed a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following the outbreak of conflict with the United States and Israel on February 28, triggering a surge in global energy prices.
While a two-week ceasefire was reached late last week, tensions remain high after talks between Tehran and Washington in Islamabad failed to produce a breakthrough.
