IRGC Navy says oil smuggling via illegal Hormuz route halted after navigation systems destroyed

An informed official of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy told Iran's state broadcaster IRIB that no violating vessel managed to enter the illegal route in the Strait of Hormuz overnight, according to a report by Mehr News. The official said the halt followed the destruction of enemy navigation aid systems, which had been used to facilitate oil smuggling through the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically vital chokepoint for global oil shipments, and Iran has repeatedly warned against unauthorized transit and smuggling activities in the area. The IRGC Navy has been actively monitoring the strait and has previously announced measures to counter violations of maritime regulations.

According to the IRGC Navy official, the destruction of the navigation aid systems prevented any violating vessel from using the illegal route during the night, effectively stopping oil smuggling through that channel entirely. The official did not provide further details on the specific systems targeted or the vessels involved.

Mehr News reported that the statement was made by an informed IRGC Navy official to IRIB, without identifying the official by name. The report did not specify when the navigation systems were destroyed or how many vessels were affected.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions in the region over maritime security and Iran's role in safeguarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have consistently emphasized their commitment to protecting the waterway and preventing illegal activities.

Mehr News added that the IRGC Navy continues to monitor the situation and has vowed to prevent any attempts to disrupt maritime security or engage in smuggling through the Strait of Hormuz.