IRGC Navy Says Iran Has Full Control Over Strait of Hormuz

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy has said Iranian forces have “complete and decisive” control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement on Friday, the IRGC Navy rejected claims by US officials that the waterway remains open, calling them “an outright lie.” It said the claims were aimed “solely to control oil prices and cover up their own defeats.”

The IRGC Navy said vessels cannot pass through the strait without prior coordination with Iran.

It added that the current restrictions would remain until the end of the United States’ “terrorist army’s aggression” against Iran and until related obligations are fulfilled.

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz after the latest American-Israeli aggression began on February 28.

Iran and the United States had agreed on a 60-day reopening period under a Pakistan-mediated memorandum of understanding in June. However, Iran later restored the closure, citing alleged US violations.

Iran has said reopening the waterway depends on several conditions, including an end to US interference in regional maritime traffic.

Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Majid Gharibabadi said the demands also include lifting the US economic blockade, ending aggression on all fronts, including Lebanon, and clarifying the situation regarding the blockade of Yemen.

Gharibabadi said the Strait of Hormuz has gained greater importance for Iran’s national security following the 40-day war.

“Following the 40-day war, the Strait of Hormuz has become a matter of Iran’s national security,” he said.

He said the change was linked to Iran’s concerns that its opponents and their allies could use the waterway for military and economic purposes while targeting Iran.