Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have reportedly warned vessels operating in the Gulf that passage through the Strait of Hormuz is “not allowed,” according to an official from the European Union’s naval mission.
An official with European Union Naval Force Aspides said ships in the region have been receiving VHF radio messages from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stating that “no ship is allowed to pass the Strait of Hormuz.” The official spoke on condition of anonymity.
Iran has not formally confirmed issuing any such directive.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) separately disclosed that it had received multiple reports from vessels in the Gulf claiming they had been informed of the waterway’s closure. However, UKMTO added that there was no immediate confirmation from Iranian authorities to substantiate the reports.
The Strait of Hormuz, situated between Iran and Oman, is widely regarded as the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint. The narrow passage connects major Gulf oil producers including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
Roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption moves through the strait, making any threat of disruption a significant concern for international energy markets and global supply chains.
There has been no official declaration of closure from Tehran, and maritime authorities continue to monitor the situation as shipping companies assess risks in the volatile corridor.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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