April 09, (THEWILL) — Iran has issued a maritime advisory warning of potential sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz and recommended a safer northern route for vessels, following a recent ceasefire agreement with the United States.
The guidance, issued by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, marks a cautious but significant step toward restoring safety and predictability in one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors.
On Thursday, the IRGC released detailed navigational maps highlighting a designated danger zone within the strait and urged vessels to avoid the main shipping lanes. Instead, ships are advised to transit closer to Larak Island, off Iran’s southern coast, to minimise the risk of collisions with possible sea mines.
The advisory was framed as a precautionary measure to ensure crew safety and protect maritime traffic following months of regional tension and conflict-related disruptions.
The Strait of Hormuz, a 55-kilometre-wide maritime chokepoint, carries nearly 30 percent of the world’s seaborne oil and substantial volumes of liquefied natural gas. Disruptions in the strait had previously contributed to volatility in global energy markets, making any steps toward safer navigation crucial for international trade. The ceasefire, announced late Wednesday, permits a controlled resumption of shipping while allowing authorities to monitor safety risks closely.
Early reports indicate that a Greek-owned bulk carrier and a Liberian-flagged vessel have already transited the strait using the northern route, signalling cautious optimism among shippers and maritime stakeholders. Despite these initial movements, overall traffic remains below pre-conflict levels, with major carriers like Maersk emphasising that full operations will resume only once risks are sufficiently mitigated.
The IRGC’s advisory includes zones marked as potential danger areas, with officials stressing the importance of coordination with naval authorities before transit. International maritime bodies, including the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), have welcomed the advisory and stressed adherence to internationally recognised safety protocols to ensure smooth and secure passage.
Diplomatic engagement continues alongside these maritime developments. Iranian and U.S. officials are scheduled to meet in Islamabad to discuss a broader, long-term peace framework, addressing both security concerns and mechanisms for sustained maritime stability. The ceasefire has created a window for dialogue, with hopes that such measures will prevent further escalation and support lasting regional stability.
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