Iran has announced alternative routes for vessels travelling through the Strait of Hormuz, citing concerns over sea mines in the main shipping channel.
In a statement reported by local media on Thursday, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said: “All ships intending to transit the Strait of Hormuz are hereby notified that, in order to comply with maritime safety principles and avoid possible collisions with sea mines, they should follow the designated alternative routes.”
The Guards added that the temporary measures were introduced to “ensure the safety of navigation and protect vessels operating in the area.”
The announcement comes as Iran agreed to reopen the key shipping passage under a two-week ceasefire arrangement. The strait, one of the world’s most important oil corridors, carries roughly a fifth of global supply.
Tensions had escalated after Tehran effectively blocked the route in early March, sending global energy prices sharply higher and raising fears of wider regional instability.
A separate statement from Iranian authorities described the reopening as a “temporary and conditional step” linked to the ceasefire, while warning that “any threat to national security or maritime safety will be met with appropriate action.”
The truce follows an agreement between Iran and the United States, reached shortly before a deadline set by US President Donald Trump, who had warned of severe consequences if access to the strait was not restored.
Maritime officials say vessels are now expected to comply strictly with the revised routing system as monitoring continues in the region.
