Iran has issued a stern warning to oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, saying vessels must follow navigation routes approved by Tehran or risk an "immediate and forceful response" from its armed forces.

The warning comes as the United States and Iran continue indirect negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent agreement following months of regional conflict.

Iran Issues New Navigation Warning

The warning was released by Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the country's joint military command, and was carried by Iranian state television.

According to the statement, all commercial oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz must comply with Iran's designated shipping routes and navigation protocols.

Iran warned that any vessel failing to follow the approved routes or ignoring its maritime instructions could face military action.

The military statement also warned that any interference by U.S. forces in the waterway would trigger a "rapid and decisive reaction."

Warning Comes After Qatar Talks

The announcement followed diplomatic meetings held in Qatar, where U.S. and Iranian representatives met through mediators to continue discussions aimed at easing tensions in the region.

Although officials did not specify what prompted the latest warning, it came shortly after the U.S. Central Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the free flow of international commerce through the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts believe that statement may have contributed to Tehran's strong response.

Dispute Over Control of the Strait

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most strategically important maritime routes, carrying a significant share of global oil exports.

As part of an interim understanding reached earlier, Iran and the United States agreed to allow commercial vessels to transit the waterway without additional charges for a temporary period.

However, Iran has insisted that it should regulate shipping routes and eventually impose transit fees, a proposal rejected by the United States and several Gulf Arab countries.

Efforts by Oman and United Nations agencies to establish alternative shipping routes closer to Omani waters have also increased regional tensions.

Ship Traffic Continues Despite Security Concerns

Despite recent security incidents, commercial shipping has continued through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to maritime monitoring data, approximately 258 vessels transited the waterway last week, an increase from 138 ships the previous week.

However, overall traffic remains below levels recorded before the recent conflict, when roughly 130 vessels passed through the strait each day.

Shipping companies continue to weigh the risks of following Iran's navigation requirements against using alternative routes monitored by international naval forces.

Global Energy Markets Closely Watching

The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints.

Any disruption to shipping in the narrow waterway could affect global oil supplies, increase transportation costs and influence international energy prices.

With diplomatic negotiations continuing alongside heightened military rhetoric, governments and shipping companies are closely monitoring developments in the region.