Iran has issued a stern warning regarding the Strait of Hormuz, declaring the strategic waterway a critical "red line" for its national security.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, an official statement released by the Iranian Armed Forces emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is considered sovereign territory. Tehran asserted that ensuring the security of this vital maritime route is non-negotiable.
Tehran has characterized recent US military activities in the region, particularly the operations of manned and unmanned aerial vehicles over the Strait, as a significant risk to regional stability. The Iranian side stated that any actions by the US perceived as undermining security will be treated as a direct threat to the country's national sovereignty.
Furthermore, the statement mandated that oil tankers and commercial vessels must adhere strictly to routes designated by Iran. The military warned that any violation of navigation protocols would be met with an "immediate and decisive response" from Iranian forces.
This development follows a security meeting convened by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) in Manama, Bahrain, which involved representatives from 11 nations. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, as a significant portion of the global oil supply passes through these waters, making it a frequent focal point for geopolitical tensions between Iran and Western powers.