Iran says vessels broke rules as tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says its naval forces have seized two ships in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing them of entering Iranian waters without permission and breaking maritime rules.

In a statement reported by Iranian state media, the IRGC said the vessels, identified as MSC-FRANCESCA and EPAMINODES, were trying to leave the strategic waterway without authorisation from Tehran.

The IRGC said the ships were found during naval monitoring operations and were stopped after what it described as repeated violations, including interference with navigation systems. The vessels were then taken into Iranian waters for inspection of their cargo and documents.

The force said it maintains strict control over movement in the Strait of Hormuz and warned that any violation of its rules would be dealt with firmly.

The statement comes shortly after US President Donald Trump announced an extension of a temporary ceasefire with Iran. Despite this, tensions at sea remain high.

Earlier reports from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also said there were separate incidents involving ships in the area, including one vessel coming under fire near Iran’s coast and another container ship reportedly approached by armed boats. No deaths were reported in either case.

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, has seen rising tension in recent days, with repeated warnings issued to ships passing through the area.

Source: Ani News