On August 6, the Navy of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued an official statement emphasizing that maritime channels designated by Iran are the only routes considered safe for vessels operating in the area.
According to the statement, all vessels wishing to navigate waters under Iranian control must strictly comply with regulations and use only the channels announced by Tehran. Any deviation from these routes is regarded as a violation and may face retaliatory measures from the IRGC.
The move comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, where Iran and Western powers frequently dispute maritime control. The IRGC warned that any foreign vessel failing to follow the guidelines will bear responsibility for the consequences.
Security analysts assess the statement aims to assert Iran's maritime sovereignty while putting pressure on international shipping in the region. Reactions from relevant countries remain unclear.
