Iran’s military has asserted full sovereign control over the Strait of Hormuz, warning that all commercial vessels must follow Iran-designated maritime routes for safe passage or face consequences. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters issued a statement emphasizing that any interference by the United States in the strait would trigger a "decisive and swift response" from Iran’s armed forces.
Described as Iranian territory under "undisputed sovereignty," the statement underscored the importance of security and stability in the waterway, which serves as a critical passage for global oil shipments. "The security and maintenance of the stability of this vital waterway are the red line of the powerful armed forces of Islamic Iran," the statement, quoted by the Fars News Agency, said.
The declaration comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions following a series of exchanges between Iran and the United States, which have threatened ongoing peace negotiations. The military statement directly referenced regional adversaries, warning the U.S., Israel — referred to as the “Israel” in the statement — and their regional allies against miscalculations or threats, asserting Iran’s readiness to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
This development coincides with ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz under a framework agreement reached between the United States and Iran nearly three weeks prior. A key component of the accord involves ensuring that vessels can transit the strait freely and without incurring charges, a point of contention between the parties.
In a related diplomatic update, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry announced that indirect talks involving Iranian and U.S. delegations in Doha have concluded with progress on some issues relating to the Islamabad memorandum of understanding. The ministry stated that further discussions are planned to continue at the earliest opportunity following the funeral proceedings for Iran’s former Supreme Leader.
As the situation remains fluid, Iran’s firm stance on control over maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz underscores the strategic and geopolitical significance of the route, which continues to be a focal point amid complex regional dynamics and international negotiations.
