‘Follow Approved Routes Or Face Forceful Response’: Iran warns oil tankers amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

Tehran: Iran has issued a fresh warning to all oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, directing them to use navigation routes approved by Tehran or face an “immediate and forceful response” from its armed forces.

The warning comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts between Iran and the United States to ease tensions in West Asia.

Fresh Warning Over Strategic Waterway

The statement, issued by Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military command and broadcast on state television, said all commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz must strictly follow navigation protocols laid down by the Islamic Republic.

Why Iran is preparing a massive Khamenei farewell? Security fears rise amid Israel threats

It warned that any vessel deviating from the designated routes or violating Iran’s navigation rules would face a swift military response, potentially jeopardizing the security of the ship and its crew.

US-Iran Talks Continue in Qatar

The warning comes a day after US and Iranian diplomats held indirect talks through mediators in Qatar as part of efforts to reach a long-term understanding following months of regional conflict.

While Iranian authorities did not specify what prompted the latest statement, it followed remarks by the US Central Command reaffirming its commitment to ensuring the free flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz.

Dispute Over Control of Shipping Routes

Iran has maintained that it should regulate shipping routes through the strategic waterway and eventually levy charges on commercial vessels. However, the United States and several Gulf Arab countries have opposed the proposal, insisting that international shipping should continue without restrictions or additional fees.

PM Modi speaks to Iranian President on West Asia situation, Hormuz security

The disagreement has emerged as one of the key issues in ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

Shipping Traffic Begins to Recover

Despite recent attacks on commercial vessels, maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has started recovering. According to maritime intelligence firm Lloyd’s List Intelligence, 258 ships transited the strait last week, up from 138 during the previous week.

However, analysts say shipping activity remains below pre-conflict levels as operators continue to assess security risks while navigating one of the world’s busiest energy corridors.