Tehran: Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a stern warning on Monday, stating that any vessels that violate Tehran's transit protocols in the Strait of Hormuz "will be forcefully stopped." The announcement underscores the ongoing tensions in the strategically vital waterway.

According to Anadolu Agency, IRGC spokesman Sardar Mohebbi emphasized that maritime activities failing to adhere to the principles established by the IRGC Navy would face significant risks. Mohebbi's statement, disseminated through the semi-official Fars news agency, reiterated that there has been "no change" in the management of the waterway. He assured that movements of civilian and commercial vessels that comply with the IRGC's transit protocols and follow the designated routes with proper coordination would remain safe and secure.

The warning comes against the backdrop of increased hostilities following US and Israeli strikes against Iran on February 28, prompting retaliatory actions from Tehran against Israel and US allies in the Gulf, as well as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The subsequent US naval blockade, initiated on April 13, has targeted Iranian maritime activity in the region.

Efforts to de-escalate the situation included a two-week ceasefire announced on April 8, facilitated by Pakistani mediation, and direct talks in Islamabad on April 11. However, these talks did not yield a lasting truce. US President Donald Trump later extended the ceasefire without specifying a new deadline, following a request from Pakistan, indicating ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.