Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, May 10: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy has issued a strong warning stating that any “aggression” against Iranian oil tankers or commercial shipping will trigger retaliatory strikes on US military facilities in the region as well as “enemy” naval vessels.
The statement was shared via social media platform X and comes amid rising tensions following reported clashes between Iranian and US forces near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz on Thursday and Friday.
According to reports, Iran intensified its control over the Strait of Hormuz from February 28, restricting the movement of vessels linked to the United States and Israel after joint military strikes were carried out on Iranian territory by those countries.
The United States, in response, has reportedly enforced maritime restrictions in the area and taken steps to limit the movement of ships connected to Iranian ports through the waterway. Over recent days, both sides have accused each other of targeting naval and commercial vessels in the region.
In another statement posted online, the IRGC Aerospace Division claimed that Iranian missiles and drones have already locked onto US military targets in the region, including what it described as “enemy” ships operating nearby. The message added that Iranian forces were “awaiting orders to fire,” further intensifying concerns of potential escalation.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said on Friday that he expects communication from Iran amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding stalled nuclear negotiations. He suggested that Tehran may be delaying progress in the talks but said the situation would become clearer soon.
Trump also indicated that the United States could change its strategy if diplomatic efforts fail, stating that Washington is prepared to “go a different route” if agreements are not reached, without providing further details.
The exchange of warnings and military posturing on both sides has heightened concerns over stability in the Gulf region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.