Tehran (QNN)- Iranian state television has aired footage shows a direct naval warning issued by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to a US Navy destroyer approaching the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials stated that the vessel changed course and retreated, signaling a sharp escalation in tensions in one of the world’s most critical waterways.
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The video, according to Iran’s account, captures a tense radio exchange. Naval forces of the Revolutionary Guard issued a clear warning to what they identified as “warship 121.” They ordered the vessel to immediately alter its course and return to the Indian Ocean. The warning included a direct threat of targeting the ship if it failed to comply.
The US vessel reportedly responded by stating it was navigating “in accordance with international law” and had no intention of provoking confrontation. Iranian forces then repeated their warning, calling it a “final notice” and warning to open fire without further alert if the ship did not withdraw.
The footage also included a broader alert from the Revolutionary Guard to all vessels in the Gulf of Oman. It instructed ships to keep a distance of at least 10 miles from any military vessel, reflecting a heightened state of operational readiness in the area.
The release of the video highlights a growing dispute between Iran and the United States over what occurred in the strait in recent hours. Iran insists the US destroyer retreated after receiving warnings. Washington, however, alleges that its naval vessels passed through the waterway without facing any threats.
Earlier, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that two destroyers (USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. and USS Michael Murphy) had transited the Strait of Hormuz as part of a 'mine-clearing mission.' The command described the operation as the first of its kind since the latest regional escalation began.
Tehran strongly rejected that account. Iranian authorities said no foreign warships crossed the strait and stressed that Iranian forces maintain full control over the passage.
The Revolutionary Guard has repeatedly warned that any attempt by military vessels to pass through the strait will face a firm response. Officials emphasized that only civilian ships may transit the waterway under specific conditions.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a vital artery for global trade. Around 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas supplies move through the narrow passage. Any escalation in this area could quickly impact global energy markets, especially as maritime disruptions continue following the US-Israeli assault on Iran.