Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned Sunday that any military vessels approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be considered a “clear violation of the existing ceasefire” and met with “decisive and consistent action.”
The IRGC statement emphasized that the strait is open exclusively for the peaceful passage of civilian vessels, not military ships. Any approach “under whatever pretext” will be treated as a breach of the ceasefire, the statement said.
The warning came after President Donald Trump announced a naval blockade of the strategic waterway, which is vital for global oil and gas trade. On his Truth Social platform, Trump said the US Navy would prevent all ships from entering or leaving the strait, with the blockade set to begin shortly.
“I have ordered the armed forces to intercept any ships that have paid tolls to Iran,” Trump wrote. “No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas.” He also threatened massive military force in response to any attacks on US forces or civilian vessels.
According to trade publication Lloyd’s List, Iran has implemented a toll system in the strait, while the Revolutionary Guard has also warned of sea mines in the area. Following the start of the Iran-Iraq war in 1980, Tehran effectively blocked the strait, driving energy prices up dramatically.