Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson General Mohabi has officially denied claims made by American officials regarding the establishment of a direct communication hotline with Iran concerning the Strait of Hormuz. Describing the reports as a total fabrication, Mohabi asserted that such a line does not exist and will not be established in the future. He further emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz is considered Iranian territory, insisting that the United States has no standing or involvement in the waterway.
Simultaneous with these remarks, Iranian state television reported that the IRGC had issued warnings to at least three foreign oil tankers attempting to transit the strait without authorization, forcing them to turn back. Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also issued a statement targeting neighbors in the Persian Gulf, Israel, and the US, asserting Iran’s right to self-defense. Writing on X, Baqaei suggested that southern neighbors should be held accountable for facilitating US attacks on Iran, noting that the nation’s military capabilities are designed to protect its inherent right to security and regional stability.
These developments follow accusations from US President Donald Trump, who claimed that Iran breached a ceasefire agreement by launching four suicide drones at vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated that at least four one-way attack drones were deployed by Iran against passing ships. According to the President, one drone successfully struck the upper deck of a large cargo ship, causing damage but allowing the vessel to remain operational. He noted that the remaining three drones were neutralized by defensive fire, labeling the incident a reckless violation of the established ceasefire.
Amidst the escalating regional tensions, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) reported significant disruptions to traffic in the area. The head of the organization confirmed that since Tuesday, June 23, a total of 115 ships and approximately 2,500 seafarers have been evacuated from the Strait of Hormuz.
