The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has issued a stern warning to the United States, asserting that the Persian Gulf’s security cannot be maintained through the presence of what it described as “arrogant and hegemonic powers.” In a statement released to mark Persian Gulf National Day, the IRGC emphasized that safeguarding the waterway requires “prudence, collective wisdom and the active participation of Gulf states” without involvement from foreign forces.

The statement criticized U.S. actions in the region, accusing Washington of sparking the 41-day conflict known as the “Ramadan War” and imposing a “brutal aggression” on Iran that has destabilized southern Persian Gulf states. The IRGC attributed ongoing insecurity to what it termed the “warmongering” policies of the United States and its allied Zionist entities, which it said have hindered regional cooperation based on trust and Islamic solidarity.

The IRGC highlighted its naval forces’ role in controlling the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as an essential “economic, energy and communications lifeline” in the Persian Gulf. It committed to continuing efforts to enhance the capabilities of its navy to protect Iranian sovereignty and interests in the strategic waterway.

Looking ahead, the IRGC conveyed confidence that foreign forces, particularly American military presence, would soon be removed from the region. It described this outcome as a widely held hope among nations in the area and as a fulfillment of regional aspirations.

In a further escalation, Brigadier General Seyyed Majid Mousavi, commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force, issued a direct warning to the U.S. Central Command. He cautioned that Iran would retaliate against any hostile acts with sustained and severe responses, suggesting that American naval vessels could face consequences comparable to those experienced by U.S. military bases in the Middle East.

The IRGC’s statements come amidst ongoing tensions in the Persian Gulf, an area vital for global energy supplies and geopolitical stability, where Iran’s role in maritime security remains a point of international contention.