IRGC Navy strikes two ships attempting unauthorized Strait of Hormuz transit

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy announced on Monday that two ships were struck after attempting to navigate the Strait of Hormuz without prior authorization. The IRGC Navy did not immediately provide details regarding the vessels' flags, ownership, or the condition of their crews.

The incident occurred shortly after the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Command declared the complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all oil tankers and commercial ships. The command cited insecurity caused by U.S. military strikes on southern Iran as the reason for the closure. It warned that any vessel attempting to transit the strait would be targeted.

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic waterway through which about one-fifth of the world's oil passes. The closure marks a significant escalation in tensions between Iran and the United States. The IRGC Navy has been tasked with enforcing the closure and has increased patrols in the area.

According to Mehr News Agency (MNA), the report did not specify the exact location of the strikes or the time of the incident. The development comes amid heightened military activity in the Persian Gulf region following recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian positions. The international community has expressed concern over the potential impact on global oil supplies and maritime security.