Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced a new policy regarding the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the strategic waterway could become a restricted zone for ships linked to the United States or Israel during the ongoing regional conflict. Iranian officials say the strait will remain under their naval control and that vessels connected to countries involved in attacks on Iran could face interception or military action.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, carrying roughly 20% of global oil shipments. Any disruption to traffic through the narrow pᴀssage between Iran and Oman could have major consequences for global energy markets and international shipping.

Iranian officials say the new policy is part of a broader strategy to respond to ongoing U.S. and Israeli military operations. Meanwhile, the United States has warned that any attempt to block or attack shipping in the strait could trigger a strong military response, raising fears of a wider naval confrontation in the Gulf region.