The UK has issued a warning to sailors navigating the Persian Gulf following reports of Iranian military attempts to order vessels into Iranian waters.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre published a notice on Friday, alerting ships to several incidents in which Iran’s military challenged vessels over VHF radio, including demands to alter course.
According to the UKMTO, these incidents appear to be linked to a large-scale military exercise, named Great Prophet XVIII, conducted by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
The two-month-long exercise, which has raised concerns among international shipping communities, comes amidst heightened tensions with Israel, marked by exchanges of fire over the past year.
The UKMTO warned that the ongoing military exercise could increase the likelihood of such incidents.
Mariners, particularly those operating near Iranian territorial waters, are cautioned to remain vigilant for any VHF hailing or communication from Iranian forces.
The UKMTO’s warning followed a reported “suspicious approach” by a military vessel in the Persian Gulf on Friday morning. The vessel in question reportedly flashed a green laser light towards a ship’s bridge and ordered the vessel to change its course towards Iranian waters.
The recent developments underscore growing concerns about safety in the region, where maritime activity is often affected by geopolitical tensions.
The UK’s warning is part of a broader international effort to ensure the safety of ships passing through these volatile waters, with the potential for further incidents as Iran continues its military exercises.
Mariners are urged to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity to the UKMTO to ensure swift response and support.
