Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has declared that it maintains complete control over the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC has accused two oil supertankers, which together were carrying over 4.5 million barrels of crude oil, of striking naval mines while allegedly attempting to navigate an unauthorised route through this vital waterway. These assertions come amid rising tensions between Tehran and Washington, with US officials contemplating military options against Iran even as diplomatic efforts persist.

The IRGC stated that maritime security is upheld according to Iranian regulations. The navy claimed that the two vessels attempted to use a southern route that had not received approval from Iranian authorities. A statement from the IRGC Navy’s Public Relations Office, as reported by the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), indicated that explosions and fires in the engine rooms of the tankers incapacitated them, forcing their crews to evacuate the ships.

Warnings Against US Military Presence

In addition, Iran has issued stern warnings against the entry of US military vessels into the Persian Gulf, countering US claims that Iranian military capabilities have been significantly diminished. Major General Ali Abdollahi, the chief of the general staff of Iran’s armed forces, asserted that Iranian forces have rendered the US Navy ineffective in the region. He claimed that the US president could only “dream” of re-entering the Persian Gulf, suggesting that such ambitions would remain unfulfilled.

Abdollahi also challenged US President Donald Trump’s repeated assertions regarding the destruction of Iran’s nuclear facilities, questioning why concerns about Tehran’s nuclear programme continue if those facilities had indeed been eliminated. He accused the US president of making misleading statements intended to shape public perception.

The ongoing disputes over maritime security are particularly significant as the Strait of Hormuz is crucial for global energy supplies and international shipping. The situation remains fluid, with both sides exchanging accusations and warnings.

US Response and Regional Developments

The competing claims regarding maritime security come as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on Friday that oil exports from the Persian Gulf have reportedly surpassed pre-conflict levels, despite Iran’s attempts to disrupt maritime traffic. In a post on X, Bessent stated that exports are “roaring back” and have exceeded levels seen before the recent tensions, indicating that Iran’s threats have not hindered the flow of energy to global markets.

Meanwhile, Iran continues to impose restrictions on maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, warning that vessels attempting to pass without coordination with its authorities could face severe repercussions. This waterway is vital for global oil shipments, making any disruptions a potential concern for energy markets and shipping operators.

Amidst these tensions, uncertainty regarding potential military action has escalated. US Ambassador to Turkiye, Tom Barrack, suggested on Friday that a US strike on Iran could occur over the weekend, although he noted that Trump remains open to diplomatic negotiations. Barrack mentioned that discussions involving regional countries, including Pakistan and Qatar, are ongoing, addressing issues such as the Strait of Hormuz, uranium enrichment, sanctions relief, and security commitments towards Israel.

Trump appeared to distance himself from Barrack’s comments regarding an imminent strike when questioned after arriving in Florida. During an election rally in Florida, Trump warned that the US could initiate “another little Epic Fury” against Iran if an agreement is not reached.

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