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Iran Demands Coordination for Strait of Hormuz Passage, Warns of Mines

Iran's Defence Council has declared that the safe transit of non-hostile vessels through the critical Strait of Hormuz is now contingent on prior coordination with Iranian officials. The warning comes amid escalating tensions, with Tehran blaming the US and Israel for military aggression and vowing a destructive response to any strikes on its energy infrastructure. The Council further cautioned that targeting Iranian coasts could lead to the deployment of naval mines across major shipping lanes, potentially freezing maritime activity in the Persian Gulf. The statement reaffirms Iran's military readiness, referencing past conflicts and current retaliatory strikes.

Key Points: Iran Requires Coordination for Strait of Hormuz Transit

  • New transit rule for Strait of Hormuz
  • Warning of naval mines if coasts targeted
  • Vows destructive response to infrastructure attacks
  • Blames US and Israel for escalation
  • Cites historical military capabilities
2 min read

"Sole way for non-hostile vessels to cruise through Strait of Hormuz is to coordinate with Iran": Iranian Defence Council

Iran's Defence Council states safe passage for non-hostile vessels through the Strait of Hormuz now requires prior coordination with Tehran.

"coordination with Iran is the only viable path for vessels to navigate the region safely - Iranian Defence Council via Press TV"

Tehran, March 24

The Iranian Defence Council has announced that the transit of "non-hostile vessels" through the strategic Strait of Hormuz is now strictly dependent on prior "coordination with Iranian officials".

According to a report by state broadcaster Press TV on Monday, this move comes amidst what Tehran describes as ongoing military aggression by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory.

The Council issued a stern warning that any further strikes on the nation's "power plants and energy infrastructure" would meet an immediate and "decisive and destructive response" from the Iranian Armed Forces.

The statement by the Defence Council, as highlighted by Press TV, follows a series of high-intensity retaliatory actions. Tehran previously targeted the Dimona nuclear complex in response to an attack on its Natanz facility, while also striking US assets following hostilities in the gas-rich Asalouyeh region.

In an escalation of maritime rhetoric, the Council cautioned that any attempt to target Iranian coasts or islands would lead to the deployment of "various types of naval mines" across all major shipping routes.

Iranian officials maintained that such a move remains "within the framework of their legitimate right and in accordance with accepted military statutes," according to Press TV.

The Council warned that such defensive measures would effectively "freeze maritime activities" in the Persian Gulf, creating a blockade similar to the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Responsibility for this potential maritime paralysis, the statement argued, lies solely with Washington and the Israeli regime as the primary "aggressors."

Drawing on historical precedents, the Council referenced the reported "destruction of more than 100 naval mine sweepers" by Iranian forces during the height of Gulf tensions in the 1980s to underscore their current capabilities.

As reported by Press TV, the Council reaffirmed that "coordination with Iran" is the only viable path for vessels to navigate the region safely.

The statement further noted that all branches of the military and government have "pledged allegiance" to the new Leader, "Ayatollah Seyed Mojtaba Khamenei," following the death of Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei and several commanders in late February.

The current conflict, which began on February 28, has seen the Iranian Armed Forces initiate large-scale "missile and drone strikes" against both Israeli positions and US interests across the region in what Tehran describes as a "legitimate response."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
While Iran has a right to defend its sovereignty, blocking international waters sets a dangerous precedent. The world cannot afford another major conflict, especially in such a sensitive region. I hope cooler heads prevail and dialogue is prioritized over threats. The common people always suffer the most in these situations.
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Rohit P
The timing is interesting with the new leadership. Feels like a show of strength internally. But externally, this is pure brinkmanship. The US and Israel won't back down easily. India has good relations with Iran and also with the US/Israel. We are in a tricky position. Jai Hind.
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Aman W
Respectfully, I think the article is presenting only the Iranian side. What about the provocations that led to this? The cycle of attack and counter-attack needs to stop. The language about "destructive response" is worrying. No one wins a war.
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Sarah B
Living in Mumbai, I'm already worried about petrol prices. If this escalates, our economy will take a hit. Hope our diplomats are working overtime behind the scenes. Global stability is not just a political issue, it's a kitchen-table issue for families.
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Karthik V
The reference to the 1980s is telling. They have experience in asymmetric naval warfare. This isn't an empty threat. The international community, including India, needs to seriously consider the implications. Chabahar port is also crucial for us. A lot at stake.

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