Iran lets 33 vessels pass through the Strait of Hormuz

May 26 ------ The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy stated that several vessels, including oil tankers, containerships, and other commercial ships, had safely transited the strategic waterway with coordination and security support provided by Iranian forces.

According to Iranian state media, the IRGC Navy coordinated the passage of 33 ships through the Strait of Hormuz over a 24-hour period, including both tankers and container vessels. The statement further claimed that the “intelligent control” of the Strait is being actively maintained by the IRGC Navy in response to what it described as heightened insecurity following alleged aggression by U.S. forces in the region.

On 20 May Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority announced the creation of a controlled maritime zone in the Strait of Hormuz, requiring vessels to coordinate with the authority and obtain authorization before transiting the strategic waterway.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran continue, with both sides tempering expectations for a swift agreement to end recent tensions, despite signs of limited progress. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Washington would continue to pursue diplomatic channels.

In parallel, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that its forces had redirected 100 commercial vessels as of 23 May as part of ongoing maritime operations described as a blockade against Iran. According to CENTCOM, since the start of these measures on 13 April, more than 15,000 military personnel have been involved in operations that include redirecting vessels, disabling four ships and facilitating the passage of 26 humanitarian aid vessels.

Source: safety4sea.com