Iran threatens forceful response to tankers that ignore designated Strait of Hormuz routes

Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya joint military command issued a warning on Thursday that oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz must adhere to routes approved by Tehran, or risk a "forceful response" from the armed forces. The statement, broadcast by state television, came after U.S. and Iranian diplomats met with mediators in Qatar.

The command said any deviation from the designated route or disregard for Iran's navigation protocols would be met with an immediate response that could endanger the vessels involved. It also criticized the presence of U.S. fighter jets over the strait, saying they create insecurity and threaten regional stability.

"Any attempt by the United States to interfere in security matters or any disruptive action in the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a threat to Iran’s national sovereignty and will be met with a rapid and decisive reaction," the statement added.

The warning follows an interim agreement between Iran and the United States that allows ships to pass through the strait without fees for 60 days, though Tehran has insisted on controlling vessel routes and later imposing charges, a shift from long-standing practice in the waterway.