British Maritime Authority Warns of High Security Threat in Strait of Hormuz

The British maritime authority has issued a warning that the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains at a "severe" degree. It called on vessels to exercise caution while transiting and to adhere to established safety procedures.

In a statement posted on X today (Sunday), the authority noted that the southern route for vessel passage through the Strait of Hormuz remains open despite Iran's announcement on July 12 to close the strait. It added that the route has been expanded to accommodate two-way navigation traffic.

The authority indicated that ships may receive radio calls from naval forces and urged mariners to be vigilant regarding the mine danger area located within the conventional traffic separation scheme.

Furthermore, the British authority confirmed that coordination with the Maritime Guidance and Coordination Group of the US Navy Central Command is strongly recommended but not mandatory. It clarified that vessels can use the southern route without prior coordination. It emphasized that no entity imposes fees or holds regulatory authority over transit through any of the passage routes in the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned the attack on the commercial vessel Galaxy off the coast of the Sultanate of Oman. It reported that out of 11 Indians aboard the ship, 10 were rescued while one remains missing. The ministry reiterated its call for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and stated that its embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation.

At the same time, Qatar’s Ministry of Transport issued a notice to owners and users of maritime vessels, including pleasure boats, fishing boats, jet skis, and similar maritime craft, instructing them to temporarily suspend sailing activities.

The ministry said in a statement: "In the interest of public safety, the Ministry of Transport urges all owners and users of maritime vessels, including pleasure boats, fishing boats, jet skis, and similar maritime craft, to temporarily cease sailing and marine activities from the date of issuance of this circular until further notice."