IRGC Says Strait of Hormuz Will Remain Restricted Amid Escalating Tensions

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said on Thursday that two oil tankers attempted to leave the “unsafe southern route” of the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday night after being directed by US aircraft. According to the IRGC, one of the tankers caught fire, prompting both vessels to reverse course and return.

In its statement, the IRGC asserted that the Strait of Hormuz falls under Iran’s control, saying its naval forces maintain firm authority over the strategic waterway. It warned that no external power would be allowed to interfere in maritime movements in the region and declared that “the aggressor will be punished today.”

The IRGC also warned countries it accused of assisting the United States, saying they would face “a harsh response” if they continued supporting what it described as aggression against Iran. It further stated that the Strait of Hormuz would not be reopened as long as US officials continued what it called threatening rhetoric and interference in regional maritime activities, arguing that such actions would further complicate the security situation.

The statement followed renewed US military strikes on Iran announced by US Central Command (CENTCOM). According to Iranian authorities, overnight attacks targeted several cities, including Qeshm Island, where officials said a two-year-old child and the child’s parents were killed after their home was struck.