Tehran: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a stern warning on Saturday, stating that any attack on Iranian commercial or oil tankers would result in a 'heavy assault' on US positions and hostile vessels in the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, the IRGC Navy command emphasized through the Fars news agency, "Warning! Any aggression against Iranian oil tankers and commercial vessels will be met with a heavy attack against one of the American centers in the region and enemy ships." The commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force, Majid Mousavi, declared that missiles and drones are "locked onto the enemy" and are prepared to launch upon receiving orders.

In a related development, the UK Defense Ministry announced the deployment of a Royal Navy warship to the Middle East. The HMS Dragon, a Type 45 destroyer previously stationed near Cyprus in the eastern Mediterranean, will "pre-position" in the region. This move is in preparation for a potential multinational mission aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by multiple UK news outlets citing a ministry spokesperson.

Tensions in the region have heightened following US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, prompting Iranian retaliation against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, and leading to the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A ceasefire facilitated by Pakistani mediation took effect on April 8, but discussions in Islamabad failed to establish a lasting agreement. The ceasefire was later extended by US President Donald Trump, allowing for diplomatic efforts to seek a permanent resolution to the conflict.

Since April 13, the US has enforced a naval blockade against Iranian maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump announced on Tuesday that the US military will temporarily pause "Project Freedom" to ensure the restoration of freedom of navigation for commercial shipping through the channel, while maintaining the blockade "in full force and effect."