IRGC Navy confirmed it forced a containership to U-turn in the Strait of Hormuz, citing lack of authorization and legal compliance.
The Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy confirmed it forced a containership to abandon its attempt to transit the Strait of Hormuz and perform a U-turn, reports London's Lloyd's List.
The St Kitts and Nevis-flagged Selen, a 658 TEU vessel, attempted to pass through the strait on March 24 but changed course off Qeshm Island at about 0830 hrs. IRGC commander Alireza Tangsiri stated that the ship lacked authorization and failed to comply with legal protocols.
Commander Tangsiri emphasized that all vessels must coordinate with Iran's maritime authority before passage. This incident highlights the IRGC's ability to exert control over the strategic chokepoint without closing it outright.
Analysts have questioned reports that Iran mined the strait, noting that Tehran already demonstrates control through intermittent missile and drone attacks on shipping, making mining unnecessary.
Iran has designated what appears to be a safe corridor around Larak Island. Several ships have used this route, including the Greek bulker Giacometti, which transited with its AIS showing 'food for Iran' as the destination.
The Chinese-owned, Panama-flagged Newvoyager also transited eastbound on March 22 via the Larak Island corridor. Lloyd's List reported that a fee was paid to Iran to secure safe passage.
