Iranian agencies published documents suggesting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) mined the Strait of Hormuz amid conflict with Israel and the U.S.
Iran Accuses Israel of Aggression, Cites Roceasefire Violations
Iranian news agencies ISNA and Tasnim published documents Thursday morning suggesting the Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) mined the Strait of Hormuz during conflict with Israel and the USA.
The document includes a map showing the area in the strait where the mines were allegedly placed, along with a route for ships crossing near Iran’s Larak Island, an area where vessel movement has been observed in recent weeks.
Tehran Links Mining to Ceasefire, Negotiations
The agency views the document as a means of pressure related to the ceasefire and negotiations with the U.S., scheduled to take place in Pakistan.
The Iranian navy threatens to destroy ships attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz without Tehran’s permission. Following the announcement of a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated transit would be coordinated with Iranian armed forces and subject to technical limitations.
Conflicting Reports on Strait of Hormuz Status
Hours after Trump announced the ceasefire, Bloomberg reported that traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remained paralyzed. Lars Jensen, a maritime transport analyst, told the BBC that “nothing has really changed” and it would take days for ship captains to regain confidence in safe passage.
Details regarding the agreement to unblock shipping lanes from the Persian Gulf remain unclear.
Israeli Strike Complicates Strait Passage
Israel’s April 8th attack on Lebanon, resulting in over 254 deaths and 1100 injuries, further complicated navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian news agency Fars reported ships were halted due to ceasefire violations.
Tehran believes the ceasefire also extends to Lebanon, where Hezbollah, funded by Iran, is fighting against Israel, while the U.S. and Israel maintain the agreement does not include Lebanon.
IRGC Commander Warns of Retaliation
“Aggression against the proud Hezbollah is aggression against Iran. The battlefield prepares a harsh response to the brutal crimes of the Israeli regime,” stated a commander of the IRGC’s Aerospace Force.
