Iran warns ships not to bypass its chosen Hormuz route

Iran's top diplomat has cautioned that any attempt by shipping to deviate from its designated route through the Strait of Hormuz will escalate tensions in the Middle East. This warning follows recent retaliatory strikes between U.S. and Iranian forces in the crucial maritime passage.

“

Any attempt to adopt new or separate arrangements compared to what is underway by the Islamic Republic of Iran, will only lead to more complicated situations and delays in the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and will increase the tensions.

The exchanges highlight the precariousness of a ceasefire agreement brokered by Pakistan, intended to end a war initiated by the United States and Israel in February. This conflict had previously disrupted shipping and unsettled global energy markets. Despite a ceasefire taking effect in April, sporadic hostilities persist in the Gulf, often sparked by vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

On Sunday, U.S. Central Command reported striking 10 Iranian military targets due to "continued Iranian aggression against commercial shipping." Iran responded by claiming retaliatory strikes against U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, actions both Kuwait and Bahrain condemned. Iran insists that ships use a corridor near its shores, though many vessels have recently sailed closer to the Omani coast.

“

I urge all parties... to adhere to the memorandum of understanding and not to allow this MoU to deviate from its course.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated, "Any attempt to adopt new or separate arrangements... will only lead to more complicated situations and delays... and will increase the tensions." He urged adherence to the existing memorandum of understanding. Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced measures to control traffic, warning of firmer action against violators. Mohammad Mokhber, an advisor to Iran's supreme leader, suggested that Iran's control over the strait thwarts "Washington's hegemonic dreams in the region."

“

As long as Iran managed the strait, Washington's 'hegemonic dreams in the region will not be realised'.