UKMTO Issues Maritime Advisory as IRGC Broadcasts Hormuz Closure on VHF; 9 LNG Tankers Divert

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) issued an official advisory Saturday warning commercial vessels in the Arabian Gulf that Iranian IRGC naval forces were broadcasting on VHF Channel 16—the international distress frequency—declaring passage through the Strait of Hormuz 'not permitted.' At least nine LNG carriers changed course away from the strait, and major insurance companies began canceling coverage for vessels in the area under a seven-day cancellation clause. UKMTO noted the broadcasts are not legally binding under international law but urged mariners to exercise extreme caution.