Iran Issues Strong Warning to Tankers Not Using Approved Routes in Hormuz
· Telemundo McAllen (KTLM)
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Iran's joint military command warned on Thursday that all tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz must adhere to approved routes or face a 'decisive response,' escalating tensions over this crucial maritime passage for global energy supplies. The narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf has become a key issue in negotiations for a permanent end to the war with Iran. The statement from the Khatam al-Anbiya military command was broadcast by Iranian state television and comes after diplomats from Washington and Tehran met with mediators in Qatar the day before. The reason behind Tehran's threat remains unclear. However, the U.S. Central Command issued a statement regarding a meeting in Bahrain with officials from Middle Eastern countries, emphasizing their shared commitment to the free flow of trade through the Strait of Hormuz. This may have been the phrase that angered Iran, which is preparing for the funeral of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who died early in the war in February. 'Any violation, deviation from the designated route, or neglect of the navigation protocols of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Strait of Hormuz will be met with an immediate and decisive response from the armed forces, jeopardizing the safety of the violating vessels,' the statement read. It also warned that interference by U.S. forces in the strait 'will be met with a swift and decisive reaction.'
AI summary · Source: Telemundo McAllen (KTLM) →
