Iran Sets New Control Zone in Strait of Hormuz

Tehran, MINA – Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) announced a new maritime control zone in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, according to Tasnim News Agency.

In a statement, the IRGC said the “smart control” area is now defined by two lines. One runs from Mount Mobarak in Iran to south of Fujairah in the UAE. The other goes from the tip of Qeshm Island to Umm Al Quwain in the UAE.

A day earlier, US President Donald Trump said the US would start helping ships stuck in the strait move freely. He called the effort “Project Freedom” and said it was requested by countries with stranded vessels. US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it would support merchant ships wanting to pass through starting Monday.

However, Iran’s Major General Ali Abdollahi warned that any foreign military force, especially the US, would be attacked if it tries to enter the strait.

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“We will keep the strait secure with full force,” he said. He also advised all commercial ships and oil tankers not to try crossing without permission from Iranian forces.

Tensions have been high since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28. That attack killed Iran’s former supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and several top commanders.

Iran fought back with missile and drone strikes for 40 days. It also closed the strait to enemy ships and later required all vessels to get permission before passing, especially after the US tried to block Iranian ships.[]

Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)

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