Iran says it is tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz as tensions linked to the war on Iran continue to escalate.
From Qeshm Island, the largest island in the Gulf overlooking the strategic waterway, Iranian officials said maritime operations are being overseen by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.
The IRGC says vessels transiting the chokepoint must coordinate with Iranian authorities, while military ships are no longer permitted to pass through.
Iranian officials are also discussing new transit and "protection" charges for commercial shipping, saying the measures are intended to safeguard maritime infrastructure and underwater communication cables.
The IRGC warns that any aggression risks another round of escalation beyond the region.
The comments come as dozens of vessels remain stranded around the strait amid fears of further escalation between Tehran and Washington.
Iranian authorities also referred to the March 11 attack on the Thai-flagged bulk carrier Mayuree Naree, which was struck by IRGC projectiles after departing Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates.
Twenty crew members were rescued, while three sailors remain missing.
Iran said the vessel was targeted after ignoring warnings and unlawfully insisting on passing through the strait.
Al Jazeera's Tohid Asadi, Qeshm Island, Iran
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