Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has asserted that its units are continuously engaging small maritime craft and obstructing their transit through the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement to the semi‑official Fars news agency, IRGC spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi described the situation as a daily "military conflict" and said that the United States has not reacted to the reported actions.
According to Mohebbi, Iranian forces have been striking and detaining minor vessels for an extended period, a practice he claims is intended to pressure the United States. He added that despite the ongoing operations, Washington has not taken steps to counter the alleged attacks, leaving the situation unresolved.
Tehran has indicated that it is prepared to restore free navigation through the strait if the United States were to cease what it terms "economic warfare" against Iran. Iranian officials are reportedly reviewing the American response to this conditional offer, a development that was communicated to Qatar, which in turn relayed the proposal to Washington.
In parallel, the United Kingdom’s Maritime Trade Operations (MTO) agency has documented incidents involving attacks on vessels transiting the Hormuz corridor. While the agency did not disclose precise figures in the latest update, it confirmed that multiple ships have been targeted, underscoring the heightened risk to commercial shipping in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with a significant proportion of the world’s petroleum passing through its narrow lanes. Any escalation of hostilities or sustained disruption could have broader implications for international energy markets and maritime security. Both Iran and the United States have historically exchanged accusations over navigation rights in the waterway, and the latest statements from the IRGC add another layer of tension to an already volatile strategic environment.
Reporting attribution: based on reporting by Middle East Eye — original source: https://www.middleeasteye.net/live-blog/live-blog-update/irans-irgc-says-it-attacks-ships-daily-strait-hormuz.