Iran’s IRGC announces new maritime rules for Hormuz coastline

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Friday announced “new rules” for the country’s coastline in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the measures are being implemented at the directive of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. According to state-run Press TV, the IRGC Navy said it will exercise control over “nearly 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) of Iran’s coastline” in these areas, aiming to make “this body of water a source of livelihood and strength for the noble people of Iran, and a source of security and prosperity for the region.” No further details were provided.

Tensions and blockade context

Tensions have been high over the Strait of Hormuz since Tehran restricted passage through the strategic waterway in retaliation for US-Israeli strikes that began on Feb. 28. A Pakistan-mediated ceasefire was announced on April 8, followed by talks in Islamabad on April 11-12, but no agreement was reached. President Trump later unilaterally extended the truce at Pakistan’s request without setting a new timeline. Since April 13, the US has enforced a naval blockade targeting Iranian maritime traffic, and the strait remains largely closed to commercial shipping.