Iran's Revolutionary Guards Issue Radio Warnings to Block Strait of Hormuz
An official from the European Union's naval mission, Operation Aspides, disclosed on Saturday that vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz have been receiving radio messages asserting that "no ship is allowed to pass the Strait of Hormuz." The official, who spoke to Reuters under condition of anonymity, confirmed that these warnings were broadcast over VHF radio and attributed to Iran's Revolutionary Guards. However, Iranian authorities have not formally acknowledged issuing any such directive.
Heightened Tensions and Global Implications
The reported radio transmissions emerge amidst escalating regional tensions, following joint US-Israel strikes on Iran. In retaliation, Tehran has targeted Israeli and US facilities across the Middle East, as well as other American allies including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. The United States has also advised commercial ships to avoid the Gulf region in response to these developments, according to AFP reports.
The Strait of Hormuz is widely recognized as the world's most critical oil export corridor. It serves as a vital link connecting major Gulf producers such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. This strategic waterway is a key transit point for global energy supplies, with estimates indicating it accounts for approximately 20% of the world's energy resources.
Historical Context and Current Concerns
For years, Tehran has threatened to block the narrow Strait of Hormuz as a retaliatory measure against attacks on the Islamic Republic. The latest radio warnings have raised significant concerns about the security of commercial shipping and the stability of global oil flows. There has been no immediate confirmation from Iranian authorities regarding any formal closure or enforcement action in the strait.
The situation underscores the fragile nature of maritime security in the region, with potential repercussions for international trade and energy markets. As tensions persist, stakeholders are closely monitoring developments to assess the impact on global supply chains and geopolitical stability.
