The commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) naval forces, Alireza Tangsiri, said on Wednesday that any tanker escorted by the United States can safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed this applies regardless of the vessel’s flag.
“Regardless of which flag it sails under, we guarantee passage through the Strait of Hormuz for any tanker that persuades the United States to escort it,” Tangsiri said, according to Mehr News Agency.
Read more: Iran warns of attacks on US-Israel interests
Iran has previously threatened to target US vessels attempting unescorted transit through the strategic maritime chokepoint, citing national security concerns amid ongoing regional conflict. Tangsiri’s statement clarifies that US involvement changes the security calculus.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following strikes on Iran, reportedly targeting homes of senior officials, military figures, and ministries. Tehran has indicated preparations for retaliation are underway, escalating regional concerns.
Read more: Trump shifts Iran attack blame to advisers
State media reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is expected to address the nation soon, signaling potential further developments in response to the US-Israeli operations.