On October 5, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement asserting that the country retains full control over the Strait of Hormuz — the world's most strategically vital maritime route, through which approximately 20% of globally traded crude oil passes daily.
The IRGC spokesperson said all monitoring and control operations in the area are conducted rigorously to ensure maritime security, while warning the United States against any actions that could disrupt or provoke instability in these waters. “Any strategic mistake by the adversary will receive a decisive response from Iran,” the statement emphasized.
The declaration comes amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington, following a series of confrontations between Iranian and U.S. naval vessels in late September. Earlier, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) accused the IRGC of harassing and cutting off the path of American warships, making patrol activities dangerous.
The Strait of Hormuz, situated between Iran and Oman, connects the Gulf of Oman with the Persian Gulf and stands as the world's foremost oil chokepoint. Iran has repeatedly threatened to block the strait if attacked or if its national interests are seriously threatened.
Analysts suggest the IRGC's latest move is intended to deliver a strong deterrent message while reaffirming Tehran's position in any dialogue or confrontation related to global energy security.
