Iran Warns Ships to Follow Tehran-Approved Routes in Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned commercial vessels to use only Tehran-designated routes while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, and rejected any newly announced maritime corridor introduced without cooperation with Iranian authorities.

According to Iranian media reports, the IRGC said that safe passage through the strategic waterway can only be guaranteed through approved routes and procedures. The force described any alternative navigation arrangement as unacceptable and a potential security threat to maritime traffic.

The statement comes at a time of increased regional attention on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit routes connecting the Persian Gulf to international shipping lanes. A large portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports pass through the narrow waterway every day.

Iranian officials argued that uncoordinated navigation plans could cause confusion among ships and increase the risk of accidents in the heavily trafficked corridor. The IRGC also warned that action could be taken against ships that fail to meet Iranian requirements, although it did not specify what measures could be taken.

Shipping companies and maritime security analysts are closely monitoring the development, as any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could affect global energy markets and international trade flows.

Analysts say the latest warning reflects Tehran’s effort to maintain surveillance of maritime movements near its territorial waters while bolstering its role in managing navigation in one of the world’s most important sea lanes.

Regional governments and commercial operators are expected to continue to assess the implications of Iran’s position as tensions and maritime security concerns remain a key focus in the Gulf region.