Strait of Hormuz – Iran Rejects New Shipping Corridor, Issues Fresh Maritime Warning
Strait of Hormuz – The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy has warned commercial vessels to use only maritime routes approved by Iran while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, stating that ships sailing outside those designated corridors could face enforcement measures. The warning follows reports that an alternative shipping route was announced without prior coordination with Tehran.
Iran Objects to Newly Announced Transit Route
According to statements carried by Iranian state media, the IRGC Navy said a recently announced navigation corridor through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz had been introduced without consultation with the Iranian government. The force described the proposed route as unacceptable, arguing that it could create significant safety concerns for commercial shipping operating in the region.
Iran maintained that only maritime lanes designated by its authorities should be considered valid for vessels transiting the waterway. The IRGC also advised shipping companies and vessel operators to avoid travelling outside these approved corridors, warning that doing so could expose ships to security and operational risks.
Communication Requirement for Passing Vessels
The IRGC Navy further stated that all ships moving through the Strait of Hormuz are expected to remain in contact with Iranian authorities during their passage. It said coordination through the designated maritime communication channel is mandatory and added that any vessel failing to comply with these instructions could face enforcement action under its stated procedures.
The announcement reflects growing attention on navigation protocols in one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, through which a substantial share of global oil exports is transported.
Oman Announces Temporary Shipping Corridor
Iran’s statement came after Oman announced that, in coordination with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), it was making a temporary maritime transit corridor available for commercial vessels using the Strait of Hormuz.
Omani authorities said the initiative is intended to support the continued freedom of navigation while avoiding additional transit charges for ships. The temporary arrangement was also described as being consistent with diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran. According to the announcement, vessels intending to use the corridor should coordinate their movements in line with procedures communicated through the IMO.
Donald Trump Opposes Possible Shipping Fees
Speaking to reporters during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, US President Donald Trump said it would be unacceptable if any future agreement with Iran introduced fees on ships using the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump argued that imposing charges on one major international waterway could establish a precedent affecting other strategically important maritime passages around the world. He also expressed confidence regarding ongoing discussions with Iran, saying negotiations were progressing positively while repeating his view that the United States held a strong position.
Oil Prices Ease as Market Watches Developments
During the same interaction, Trump pointed to falling crude oil prices, noting that they had declined to around USD 70 per barrel, the lowest level seen since before the recent conflict involving Iran. He suggested the decline reflected improving market confidence despite regional tensions and reiterated that negotiations with Tehran were moving in a favourable direction.
Energy markets continue to closely monitor developments surrounding the Strait of Hormuz because any disruption to shipping in the region can influence global oil supplies and international fuel prices.
Iran Criticises US Regional Policies
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei criticised US policy in the Middle East through a post on social media. He argued that lasting regional stability would remain difficult as long as what he described as American military intervention continued.
His remarks highlighted Tehran’s longstanding criticism of US involvement in the region and underscored the continuing diplomatic differences between the two countries, even as international attention remains focused on maritime security, energy markets and negotiations affecting the Strait of Hormuz.