Iran's joint military command and deputy foreign minister have asserted that the Strait of Hormuz is under Iranian command. The joint command warned that all oil tankers passing through the waterway must use approved routes or face a forceful response. Senior Iranian sources indicated the country is determined to gain international recognition of its control over the Strait and its ability to levy fees on ships entering or leaving the Gulf, even if force is required.
A foreign container ship recently ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz. State television in Tehran and the IRGC reported that the grounding occurred because the vessel strayed from its approved corridor and used an unauthorized route. Shipping data further revealed that the vessel was flying a false flag to disguise its origins. Iran reiterated that vessels should only transit the waterway in coordination with the Islamic Republic.
While the Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that talks have seen positive progress despite the tensions, significant obstacles remain. According to the IRGC, control over the Strait of Hormuz and Israeli intervention against Hezbollah in Lebanon continue to be the primary hurdles to reaching a final deal.