IRGC Navy Declares Iran-Approved Routes Only Valid for Strait of Hormuz Transit

Tehran, June 2026 : Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy on Thursday declared that vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz must use only the routes designated by Iranian authorities, warning that navigation outside those corridors is prohibited and potentially dangerous.

In a statement published by the IRGC’s official news outlet, Sepah News, the naval force emphasised that the approved Iranian routes are the sole authorised channels for commercial and maritime traffic through the strategic waterway.

The statement came after the Oman Maritime Security Centre issued navigation guidance for outbound vessels under an arrangement coordinated with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

“Everyone must know that the only routes for passage through the strait are those announced by Iran,” the IRGC statement said, adding that traffic outside those routes “is very dangerous and prohibited and must be strictly avoided.”

The announcement follows the June 18 memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States, which ended months of conflict and included provisions for ensuring the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Under the agreement, Iran committed to facilitating safe navigation without imposing transit charges for a 60-day period.

On Tuesday, Iran and Oman issued a joint statement announcing the creation of a joint working group to discuss the future administration of navigation in the strait. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the safe passage of ships in accordance with international maritime law.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports.

Meanwhile, the IMO has begun preparations for the evacuation of more than 11,000 seafarers who remain stranded in the region. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said the organisation had secured the necessary safety guarantees and confirmed that navigation conditions were suitable for the operation.

According to the IMO, the evacuation will be conducted in close coordination with Iran, Oman, other regional governments, and the maritime industry following the recent US-Iran agreement.

The latest IRGC warning underscores Iran’s determination to retain direct control over navigation procedures in the Strait of Hormuz even as broader international efforts continue to stabilise maritime traffic and reduce tensions in the Gulf region.