Foreign military presence threatens Persian Gulf security: IRGC Navy chief

The Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, has warned that any insecurity in the strategic Strait of Hormuz would have far-reaching international economic consequences. He noted that the presence of foreign powers in the Persian Gulf undermines regional stability.

Speaking on the occasion of National Persian Gulf Day, Tangsiri expressed condolences following the recent explosion at Shahid Rajaei Port. He emphasized the historical importance of the date, which marks the end of 117 years of Portuguese occupation in the Persian Gulf on April 30 (10th of Ordibehesht in the Iranian calendar).

“The Persian Gulf is vital not only to Iran but to the global economy,” Tangsiri said, citing Iran’s 1,735 kilometers of direct coastline and 5,800 kilometers when including islands. “The deepest waters and most navigable routes lie on the Iranian side.” He noted that the region’s strategic significance predates the discovery of oil and gas, referencing Portuguese control of the area from 1508 to 1622. “Even back then,