Iran's Revolutionary Guard claims to have stopped four ships in Hormuz Strait

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Saturday that its naval forces intercepted four vessels attempting to navigate the Strait of Hormuz. According to a statement cited by state television, the IRGC fired warning shots, compelling the ships to change course within the past 24 hours.

The IRGC asserted that the vessels were attempting to transit the southern portion of the strategic waterway using an "illegal and unsafe route." The statement did not provide further details on the vessels' origins or destinations.

This incident occurs amid heightened tensions in the region and follows a pattern of actions by Iran targeting commercial shipping. In recent weeks, Iran has reportedly targeted tankers that were sailing along the Omani coast while attempting to cross the strait. Analysts suggest these actions may be an attempt by Iran to compel vessels to use its territorial waters and potentially pay for safe passage.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, and any disruption or perceived threat in the area can have significant implications for international energy markets.