Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy Closes Strait of Hormuz

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy closed the Strait of Hormuz to vessels engaging in unsafe and provocative navigation on June 12, 2026. The naval force ordered the closure after Iranian security sources alleged that the United States committed maritime provocations against Iran's southern coasts. The move signals a hardening of Iranian control over the strategic waterway, with naval forces treating unauthorized passage as a direct security threat.

During the enforcement of this closure, the IRGC Navy confronted an oil tanker attempting to transit the strait. The encounter resulted in explosions that were audible in Sirik County, Hormozgan Province. Following direct warnings from Iranian naval forces, the tanker abandoned its transit attempt and complied with the prohibition.

Iranian forces continue to conduct comprehensive surveillance and patrol operations to maintain control over the waterway. These actions create significant risks for international shipping and oil markets, as the IRGC Navy warns that any vessel attempting to bypass the restriction will be confronted firmly and decisively. The situation remains volatile as Iran maintains its posture of active deterrence in response to perceived foreign aggression near its coastlines.