Iran's Revolutionary Guards on Thursday issued a stern warning against any crossings of the Strait of Hormuz without authorization, declaring that vessels not complying "will be dealt with." The statement underscores the strategic waterway's contentious role in ongoing negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
Authorized Route Only Through Iran
The Revolutionary Guards, the ideological arm of Iran's military, stated that "the only authorized route for passage through the Strait of Hormuz is the route announced by the Islamic Republic of Iran." They warned that any crossing without authorization is "unacceptable and extremely dangerous."
The statement denounced a new route through the waterway announced by "certain authorities," though it did not elaborate. This appears to be a response to an announcement by Oman, which also borders the strait, of a temporary corridor. Omani authorities released a map of a route close to the Omani coast, coordinated with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a UN agency responsible for marine safety.
Currently, the only route authorized by Iran follows the Iranian coast.
Strategic Importance of the Strait
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow stretch of water between Iran and Gulf countries, through which roughly 20 percent of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas normally transits. At its narrowest, it is only about 30 kilometers (18 miles) wide.
The future of the strait is a key sticking point in negotiations between Tehran and Washington. Iran has said it plans to impose what it calls "maritime service fees," while the United States argues it is an international waterway and should not be charged.
Recent Developments in Negotiations
A memorandum of understanding signed last week by Tehran and Washington to end their war stipulated that commercial ships may transit the strait free of charge for the next 60 days. With Iran and the US in negotiations, it is unclear what arrangements will be in place after that period.
Iran and Oman announced on Tuesday that they would study the "costs" to be charged for services related to administration of the strait. However, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, visiting neighboring Gulf countries this week, said Washington would not accept any tolls or fees.
