IRGC intercepts two vessels, targets third in Hormuz, warning of strict action amid escalating US-Iran maritime confrontation.
Key Developments
- IRGC Navy seizes two vessels, transfers them to Iranian territorial waters.
- One vessel reportedly linked to Israel, accused of violating navigation rules.
- Third ship targeted after attempting to cross Hormuz without authorization.
IRGC Seizes Two Vessels in Strait of Hormuz
Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Navy announced on Wednesday it had intercepted two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and transferred them to Iranian territorial waters as part of ongoing maritime security operations.
In a statement cited by Tasnim news agency and Al-Jazeera, the IRGC said the ships—identified as MSC Francesca and Epaminodes—were operating without authorization and repeatedly violating maritime regulations.
The statement added that the vessels tampered with navigation systems in a way that endangered maritime safety and attempted to exit the strait covertly before being intercepted.
One of the vessels, MSC Francesca, was described as being linked to Israel.
The IRGC said both ships have been transferred to Iranian waters for inspection of their cargo, documents, and operational records.
Third Vessel Targeted
In a related development, a third commercial vessel—identified as Euphoria—was targeted after attempting to cross the strait in violation of Iranian regulations, according to Fars news agency. The vessel is now reportedly stranded off the Iranian coast.
Iranian media said the interception and targeting operations are part of what officials describe as “smart control” of the Strait of Hormuz, amid heightened tensions with the United States.
The IRGC Navy stressed that any violation of Iran’s declared navigation rules in the Strait of Hormuz would be met with firm action.
It said forces will “deal legally and firmly with any movements or actions that violate Iranian laws regulating navigation,” emphasizing that maritime security in the strategic waterway is a “red line.”
The statement underscored that all vessel movements in the strait are being closely monitored.
The developments come amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz following a US-imposed naval blockade and recent confrontations involving Iranian and US-linked vessels.
Iran had previously reclosed the strait after briefly reopening it, in protest against continued US restrictions.
The incidents also follow a fragile ceasefire announced on April 8, brokered by Pakistan, which remains under strain as both sides continue military and maritime maneuvers.
(PC, Tasnim, Al-Jazeera, Fars news agency, Al Mayadeen)
