Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has denied claims that commercial ships or oil tankers have recently passed through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, calling statements attributed to U.S. officials “unfounded and absolutely false,” according to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency.
The statement comes amid escalating tensions in the region, where maritime activity has been severely disrupted following the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
The IRGC’s denial directly contradicts recent assertions by U.S. officials that progress has been made in restoring shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz. According to U.S. reports, at least two merchant vessels have recently transited the strait under American oversight as part of a broader effort to reopen the waterway.
However, Iranian authorities maintain that such claims are inaccurate. Iranian military and state media have repeatedly asserted that the strait remains under strict control, and that any movement of vessels must be coordinated with Iranian forces.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints—has seen dramatically reduced activity in recent weeks. Maritime traffic has been limited due to security threats, military operations, and competing control claims by Iran and U.S.-led forces.
Iran has previously warned that no unauthorized ships would be allowed to pass and that any foreign military presence in the strait could be treated as a violation and targeted.
Recent developments indicate that vessels attempting to navigate the area face significant risks, including possible interception or attack. Reports also suggest that hundreds of ships remain stranded or rerouted due to the ongoing crisis.
The disagreement over whether ships are moving through the strait highlights the broader uncertainty surrounding maritime security in the region. Conflicting claims from Tehran and Washington have added to confusion among shipping companies and global markets.
The situation has already impacted global oil supply chains, with reduced traffic through the strait contributing to volatility in energy markets and increased shipping risks.
As of May 4, 2026, no independent confirmation has fully reconciled the competing claims. While U.S. officials report limited successful transits, Iran continues to insist that no commercial vessels or tankers have passed through recently.
Authorities on all sides are continuing to monitor the situation, with further updates expected as geopolitical tensions evolve and maritime operations in the region develop.