The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has rejected Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ claim that no foreign ships can pass through the Strait of Hormuz without being identified, tracked and monitored by Iranian forces.
In a statement, CENTCOM said Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz and described it as an international waterway. It added that U.S. forces are deployed and ready to ensure the waterway remains open.
🚫 CLAIM: The Iranian commander for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-Navy recently said on state-owned media that no foreign vessels may pass through the Strait of Hormuz without being identified, tracked, and monitored by Iranian forces.
✅ FACT: Iran does not control the… pic.twitter.com/8lRDNiOpXQ
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 12, 2026
Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker said the interim deal between the United States and Iran has always depended on Iran’s actions. He said one of the key conditions is that Tehran must not threaten or harass ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking to U.S. media, Whitaker said President Donald Trump wants to reach a deal with Iran, but also defended the recent U.S. military strikes.
He added that Trump believes Iran is being run by “a bunch of crazy people” and said they must understand that the United States is serious about its position.
