Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warn ships to seek approval before entering the Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a fresh warning on Thursday over navigation in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, saying any vessel that wants to pass must coordinate fully with Iran. In a formal statement, the Guards said any route announced by unnamed parties for passage through the strait without Iranian coordination is “unacceptable and dangerous,” and warned that sailing outside the routes it sets is “dangerous and prohibited.” They said coordination through “Channel 16” is mandatory and that enforcement measures will be taken against anyone who violates the order.

The warning marks a significant escalation in Iran’s posture toward the waterway, through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply flows. It comes amid renewed tension between Tehran and Washington, after US President Donald Trump recently boasted on social media that 19 million barrels of oil had moved through Hormuz, calling it a “record high.” Trump also said oil prices were falling and “the world is a much safer place.”

Iran quickly disputed that account. A security source told the Fars news agency that only a limited number of ships are allowed through the strait each day, that the number changes daily, and that approvals are updated according to conditions on the ground. At the same time, Iran and Oman’s foreign ministries issued a joint statement saying they are committed to ensuring safe passage through Hormuz in line with relevant international law, while stressing their sovereignty and rights over territorial waters in the strait.

Former National Security Council chief Prof. Jacob Nagel warned that Iran is using Hormuz as a tool of blackmail. He said Tehran could tell negotiators, “The Strait of Hormuz is important to you? Then Israel should withdraw from Lebanon.” Nagel argued that linking global shipping freedom to local arenas is an effective pressure tool against the West, and that Israel could pay the price if it does not show resolve. He added that the “terror appetite of the axis of evil” would grow after such gains. The comments come as the US and Iran have been negotiating in Switzerland, with Washington agreeing to ease oil sanctions in exchange for Iranian commitments on nuclear issues and freedom of navigation. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the Treasury issued a temporary general license for 60 days allowing Iranian oil production, supply and sales, and Thursday’s Iranian warning raises questions about how those commitments will be implemented.