Key facts
- Iran's IRGC denied reports of a direct US hotline.
- President Trump accused Iran of violating a ceasefire with a drone strike in the Strait of Hormuz.
- One Iranian drone struck a cargo ship, while three were shot down by the US.
- Iranian state television reported three foreign oil tankers turned back after IRGC warnings.
- Iranian media reported an explosion in Sirik, southern Iran.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has denied reports of a direct hotline with the United States concerning the Strait of Hormuz, calling them 'sheer lies.' IRGC spokesperson General Mohabi stated such a hotline 'has not happened and will not happen,' asserting Iranian control over the Strait.
These statements follow US President Donald Trump's accusation that Iran violated a ceasefire by launching four suicide drones toward ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump claimed one drone struck a cargo ship, while the US shot down the other three, describing the action as a 'foolish violation.'
Iranian state television also reported that three foreign oil tankers attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz "without authorisation" turned back after receiving warnings from the IRGC. Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized Iran's right to legitimate self-defence.
Amid escalating tensions, the International Maritime Organisation announced that since Tuesday, June 23, a total of 115 ships and 2,500 seafarers have been evacuated from the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian media also reported an explosion in Sirik, southern Iran, though the source was not immediately clear.