Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a fresh warning on Sunday, asserting that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to the “harmless passage of civilian vessels” in line with international law, while threatening to “deal severely” with any military ships attempting to transit the critical waterway.
The statement, carried by Iranian state media, came hours after the US Central Command confirmed that two American naval destroyers had passed through the strait as part of mine-clearing operations. The IRGC Navy Command declared: “Any attempt by military vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz will be dealt with severely. The IRGC Navy has full authority to manage the Strait of Hormuz intelligently. Only civilian vessels are allowed to pass under specific conditions.”
This latest IRGC declaration reflects Iran’s insistence on controlling traffic through the narrow chokepoint which carries about one-fifth of global oil amid a fragile US-Iran ceasefire that has shown repeated signs of strain. Shipping data continues to show minimal commercial traffic despite Tehran’s claims, with vessels largely avoiding the area due to lingering sea mines and uncertainty.
Trump Responds With Blockade Threat
US President Donald Trump responded aggressively to the developments, announcing that the US Navy would begin a blockade of the strait “effective immediately.”
In a Truth Social post and subsequent comments, Trump stated: “The United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz.” He accused Iran of “extortion” for attempting to impose tolls and vowed to interdict any vessels that paid fees to Tehran. Trump further warned: “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!”
The US move follows the collapse of recent peace talks in Islamabad, where differences over Iran’s nuclear program, regional influence, and full reopening of the strait without conditions could not be bridged. Trump has repeatedly tied any lasting ceasefire to the “Complete Immediate , and Safe opening” of the waterway.
Current Situation in the Strait
- Despite Iranian assurances that civilian vessels can pass with coordination, commercial shipping remains at a near-standstill. Hundreds of tankers are idling outside the area, and oil prices remain volatile.
* American warships have begun mine-clearing efforts, which Iran views as provocative.
* Sea mines deployed during earlier fighting continue to pose hazards, forcing discussions of alternative routes.
* The ongoing disruptions threaten energy supplies worldwide, with calls for de-escalation from major importers like China, India, and Europe.
Tensions in the Persian Gulf remain high, with both sides digging in. Analysts warn that any miscalculation involving military vessels in the strait could rapidly unravel the fragile truce and trigger wider conflict. The situation continues to evolve rapidly as diplomatic efforts stall and naval posturing intensifies.
Trump Announces Two-Week Ceasefire : Tehran Agrees to Reopen Strait of Hormuz
