IRGC warns against new Hormuz route for ships: What we know

What Happened

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a warning on Thursday to commercial vessels to use only transit routes through the Strait of Hormuz designated by Tehran, following Oman’s announcement on Wednesday of a new shipping corridor coordinated with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The IRGC stated the Omani route was ‘unacceptable’ and posed ‘serious safety risks,’ insisting that ships must maintain contact with the IRGC Navy while transiting. The warning came after a Liberian oil tanker passed through the strait on Thursday using a route closer to Oman’s coastline, and amid fragile US–Iran negotiations following a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed last week that halted hostilities and reopened the strait for 60 days. The MoU stipulates demining operations within 30 days and discussions on future arrangements, but leaves unresolved whether Iran will seek transit fees, greater control, or permanent routing changes.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly one-fifth of global oil and LNG trade, making it a critical chokepoint for energy markets and global economic stability. Iran’s ability to disrupt or control transit provides strategic leverage in its confrontation with the US, and the IRGC’s warning threatens to unravel the fragile ceasefire and negotiation framework established by the MoU. Disagreements over routing, fees, and maritime authority could derail efforts to reach a permanent agreement, reignite hostilities, and cause renewed shipping disruptions with immediate price spikes in global energy and fertilizer markets.

Watch For

Iran is obligated to complete demining operations within 30 days of the MoU, a process that may influence which lanes are available. During the 60-day negotiation window, watch for Iran’s official map of authorized routes, any imposition of transit or service fees, and whether additional vessels defy IRGC warnings using the Omani corridor. Diplomatic moves by Oman, IMO coordination, and statements from the US, IRGC, and Foreign Minister Albusaidi will signal whether tensions escalate or de-escalate before a permanent agreement deadline.