Tehran: The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has issued a stern warning to maritime vessels, advising against the use of alternative routes to the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. This warning follows an incident where a vessel caught fire in the region.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the IRGC reported that three vessels had attempted to navigate through an unsafe route in the Strait of Hormuz. One of these vessels caught fire, prompting the other two to quickly retreat. The IRGC emphasized its 'absolute control' over the entrances and exits of the strait, declaring that it would remain closed to oil tankers as long as perceived acts of aggression by the United States continue.

The IRGC statement highlighted that any vessel attempting to traverse the strait without coordination with Iran would face dire consequences. They called on the United States to cease its 'acts of aggression' to prevent jeopardizing commercial shipping and global energy security, warning of a potential energy crisis and fertilizer shortage.

The IRGC reiterated its control over the designated routes in the Strait of Hormuz and cautioned against using any alternative pathways, labeling them as dangerous. The statement concluded with a forewarning of 'serious and irreversible consequences' for non-compliance.