Strait of Hormuz Under Full Iranian Military Control, IRGC Confirms

Tehran, March 4, 2026: Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced that it now holds full control of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy passage. The move comes amid escalating regional tensions following US-Israeli strikes on Iranian territory and Tehran’s retaliatory operations.

Mohammad Akbarzadeh, Political Advisor of the IRGC Navy, told Fars News Agency: “The Strait of Hormuz is currently under the full control of the naval forces of the Revolutionary Guard.”

Brigadier General Ebrahim Jabbari, an advisor to the IRGC commander, warned that any ship attempting to pass would face serious consequences:
“Not one drop of oil will be allowed to leave the region. Any ship attempting to pass will burn.”

This assertive stance underscores Iran’s strategic position and control over one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.

The IRGC’s announcement has already affected commercial shipping. S&P Global Commodities at Sea reported that only two oil and chemical tankers crossed the Strait on Monday. Under normal conditions, about 60 vessels pass daily, carrying nearly 20% of the world’s traded oil and a similar share of liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Insurance premiums for Gulf shipping have surged, and many operators have temporarily reduced transit through the region, following warnings and attacks on vessels near Oman and the UAE.

The disruption in the Strait of Hormuz has sent energy markets into volatility. Oil prices surged earlier this week, reflecting fears of a prolonged supply interruption. European natural gas benchmarks also spiked as traders reassessed risks to Gulf LNG shipments.

Further strain emerged after QatarEnergy temporarily halted LNG production due to drone strikes targeting major facilities at Ras Laffan and Mesaieed, two of Qatar’s key gas hubs.

Analysts say Iran’s control of the Strait signals that the country will actively protect its sovereignty and exert leverage in regional energy politics. The IRGC’s announcement also serves as a warning to foreign powers attempting to interfere with Iran’s interests.