KEPRI POST – Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz area have increased again. Iran claims to have succeeded in forcing United States troops to withdraw from the waters around the strait.
Quoting a report from the Mehr news agency, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said the incident occurred on Sunday (19/4), after an Iranian merchant ship was fired upon by US troops near the Gulf of Oman.
In its statement, the IRGC said the quick response of their naval units meant that US troops were forced to leave the area.
“With their timely presence and quick reaction, US forces were forced to withdraw from the scene,” the IRGC said in a statement.
Also Read: IMO Warns of High Risk in Strait of Hormuz, Records 24 Ship Attacks
Iran Opens New Route “Larak Corridor”
In the midst of this situation, state media Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting reported that Iran had opened a new shipping route called the Larak Corridor.
This route is said to stretch from the south of Hormuz Island to the south of Larak Island, and is completely within Iranian territorial waters.
However, use of this route is only permitted after the Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened and must obtain permission from the IRGC Navy.
Iran also emphasized that control over this route is carried out strictly, so that ships without permission cannot pass.
Also read: Iran threatens to destroy the US fleet in the Strait of Hormuz, tensions peak
Tension Background
Tensions in the region have increased since February 28, when Israel and the US launched attacks on Iranian territory.
The situation escalated after the US implemented a blockade on ships heading to and from Iran, following the failure of peace negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan.
Previously, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi had stated that the Strait of Hormuz would be fully open during the two-week ceasefire period starting on April 8.
However, Iran’s main military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, later announced the reimposition of strict controls due to the continued blockade by the US Navy.
Impact on Global Shipping
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for world energy trade, especially the distribution of oil from the Gulf region.
Any escalation of conflict in this region has the potential to disrupt global supply chains, increase shipping security risks, and trigger a spike in energy prices on international markets.
The still dynamic situation makes the international community continue to call for de-escalation and dialogue to prevent wider conflict. ***
