Iran warns ships against using unapproved routes in Strait of Hormuz

What Happened

Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters issued a statement on Thursday, carried by Tasnim news agency, warning that vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz using unapproved routes would face 'an immediate and forceful response from the armed forces' and endanger their security. The threat came a day after Qatari mediators reported 'positive progress' in indirect US-Iranian talks and hours after the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a security dialogue in Bahrain where regional leaders committed to the 'free flow of commerce' in the strait. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi criticized CENTCOM's statement on X, asserting that regional security requires an end to US interventions and withdrawal. The warning follows at least 49 attacks on commercial vessels in the strait since the outbreak of the US-Israel war on Iran on February 28, most blamed on Tehran. Transits have increased since the June 17 memorandum of understanding signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reaching 45 crossings on Wednesday versus 34 on Tuesday, but remain far below the pre-conflict average of about 130 daily crossings. Brent crude for August delivery held at $72.07 per barrel early Friday after dropping below $71 the previous day.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of global oil and LNG trade, making any disruption a direct threat to energy markets and the global economy. Iran's explicit threat, issued as indirect US-Iran talks show tentative progress, demonstrates Tehran's willingness to use its geographic chokehold to pressure negotiations. The move risks aggravating an already fragile ceasefire and could unravel the June 17 MoU that briefly boosted shipping transits.

Watch For

Monitor whether Iran or IRGC naval forces intercept or strike vessels citing the warning; further incidents in the strait and MarineTraffic transit counts; the next round of Doha-mediated indirect talks; any US or allied naval repositioning; and oil price volatility linked to Hormuz tensions.