Iran has announced new alternative shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, citing safety concerns linked to the presence of sea mines in parts of the strategic waterway.
The development comes as Tehran moves to temporarily reopen the vital corridor under a two-week ceasefire agreement with the United States, following weeks of heightened tensions that disrupted global energy flows.
In a statement, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards urged vessels to avoid the main transit lanes and instead follow newly designated paths.
“All ships intending to transit the Strait of Hormuz are hereby notified that… they should take alternative routes for traffic in the Strait of Hormuz,” the statement said.
Authorities explained that the directive is aimed at reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring maritime safety amid concerns over underwater explosives.
“All vessels… are advised to take alternative routes to ensure maritime safety and avoid potential sea mine hazards,” the military added.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, typically accounting for about one-fifth of global crude shipments.
Iran had effectively restricted access to the waterway since early March during escalating conflict, a move that sent global energy prices soaring and disrupted international shipping.
While the ceasefire has opened a window for limited navigation, the introduction of alternative routes underscores ongoing security risks and Iran’s continued control over maritime movement in the region.
