Iran’s IRGC says vessels must coordinate passage through Hormuz Strait

Key points· Video

• Iran says it is tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz as tensions linked to the war on Iran continue to escalate.
• From Qeshm Island, the largest island in the Gulf overlooking the strategic waterway, Iranian officials said maritime operations are being overseen by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.
• The IRGC says vessels transiting the chokepoint must coordinate with Iranian authorities, while military ships are no longer permitted to pass through.
• Iranian officials are also discussing new transit and "protection" charges for commercial shipping, saying the measures are intended to safeguard maritime infrastructure and underwater communication cables.
• The IRGC warns that any aggression risks another round of escalation beyond the region.