Iran fires warning shots at ships in Strait of Hormuz

The Islamic regime fired warning shots at four ships that attempted to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday night, according to state media site IRIB. The report stated the vessels tried to enter the Persian Gulf without coordinating with security forces. "They were warned, but after they ignored the warning, warning shots were fired at them, forcing them to return," IRIB reported. The incident occurred around 12:35 am local time. This action follows Iran's recent efforts to assert control over the crucial waterway. The regime has reportedly begun demanding fees from ships for "navigational" and "environmental services," an apparent attempt to circumvent legal restrictions on charging tolls. Security analyst Roger Macmillan previously explained that under Articles 38 and 44 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, countries bordering the Strait of Hormuz, namely Iran and Oman, cannot suspend or impede vessel passage. While the convention allows for fees for services provided, charging tolls for passage is generally prohibited.

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They were warned, but after they ignored the warning, warning shots were fired at them, forcing them to return.