Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Thursday declared that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until the United States ends what Tehran described as interference in the strategic shipping lane, marking one of its strongest statements since tensions with Washington escalated.
In a statement carried by Iran's state-run media, the IRGC warned countries assisting the United States in West Asia and elsewhere to "change their behaviour" or face a "firm and harsh" response.
"The Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the threats and interference of US officials end in maritime activities," the IRGC said, while asserting that the vital waterway is under Iran's full control and that it would not allow "a stranger from thousands of kilometres away" to intervene.
IRGC Claims Two More Tankers Targeted
The Revolutionary Guard also claimed that two more oil tankers attempting to pass through what it described as an unsafe shipping route south of the Strait of Hormuz were caught in an incident. According to the IRGC, one vessel caught fire, prompting both ships to turn back. The claims have not been independently verified.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's busiest energy corridors, linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. A significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports passes through the narrow waterway, making any disruption a major concern for international energy markets.
Warning Follows Escalating Military Tensions
The latest warning comes amid heightened hostilities between Iran and the United States following recent military exchanges.
On Wednesday, the IRGC claimed that its Aerospace Force has attacked a US air base and the US Central Command (CENTCOM) headquarters in Jordan, describing the strikes as retaliation for recent US military operations against Iran.
The Guard Corps said it would continue its resistance until what it called US "threats, illegal and hostile moves" against Iran come to an end.
Oman-Iran Talks Focused on Safe Navigation
Despite the sharp rhetoric, Iran and Oman recently held technical discussions aimed at ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the July 24-25 talks in Tehran were "useful and forward-looking," with progress. According to Baqaei, officials discussed practical mechanisms for maintaining maritime traffic while respecting the sovereign rights of Iran and Oman, the two countries bordering the strategic waterway.
The latest IRGC statement underscores the growing uncertainty surrounding one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, where any prolonged disruption could have significant implications for global energy supplies and international shipping.
