The US warns vessels to ignore Iranian orders and stay vigilant in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising threats from Iranian forces.
The US Maritime Administration (MARAD) has issued a new advisory warning American-flagged vessels to ignore diversion orders from Iran and maintain heightened vigilance in the Strait of Hormuz, reports Ventura, California's gCaptain.
MARAD stated that the risk of attacks remains high as Iranian forces employ missiles, drones, unmanned vessels, and aggressive boarding operations. The advisory, numbered 2026-004, replaces earlier guidance and reflects the expanding threat environment in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Gulf of Oman.
US-flagged ships are instructed to keep at least 30 nautical miles from US military vessels to avoid misidentification, answer all VHF calls from coalition forces, and coordinate closely with Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping. Vessels should remain as far from Iranian waters as possible, staying closer to Oman's coastline when safe.
The advisory explicitly warns ships to ignore Iranian diversion orders sent via radio or email, cautioning that such communications may be used to verify vessel identity or improve targeting accuracy. Incidents should be reported immediately to coalition naval forces.
Analysts noted that AIS tracking data suggests Iran may be informally screening ships near Larak and Qeshm islands before allowing them to exit the Gulf. Several tankers and bulk carriers have followed unusual routes north toward Iranian waters before continuing into the Gulf of Oman.
MARAD also warned of GNSS interference, spoofing, and jamming across the region, urging reliance on traditional navigation methods and continuous monitoring of VHF Channel 16. Operators must comply with US Coast Guard security directives and report incidents to UKMTO and the US Fifth Fleet.
The advisory underscores the volatile security environment and will remain in effect until September 9 unless updated.
