Iranian Regime Declares Unauthorized Vessels in Strait of Hormuz as ‘Legitimate Targets’

04/05/2026

Iranian Regime Declares Unauthorized Vessels in Strait of Hormuz as ‘Legitimate Targets’

In this photo released by Tasnim News Agency, a Revolutionary Guard Navy (IRGC) speedboat approaches the cargo ship Epaminondas during what state media described as the seizure of one of two vessels accused of violations in the Strait of Hormuz, April 21, 2026. (Meysam Mirzadeh/Tasnim News Agency via AP, File)

TEHRAN, May 4: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned that any vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz without authorization will be considered “legitimate targets.”

IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi said no ship has the right to pass through the strategic waterway without prior approval, adding that any vessel violating the directive would face military action. The warning comes amid heightened tensions in the region, where Iran has increasingly asserted control over maritime traffic.

The statement further escalates concerns over global shipping security in one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes, through which a significant share of international oil shipments pass.