Iranian forces historically have utilized small boats and helicopters during boarding operations and have attempted to force commercial vessels into Iranian territorial waters, including as recently as Feb 3, the US government said in a maritime advisory on Monday. The US also downed an Iranian drone last week, with the US Central Command claiming the unmanned aircraft “aggressively approached” a US Navy ship. They should deny Iranian forces permission to board the vessel if possible while ensuring crew safety, but should not forcibly resist boarding. “When transiting eastbound in the Strait of Hormuz, it is recommended that vessels transit close to Oman’s territorial sea,” the advisory said. Vessels should “remain as far as possible from Iran’s territorial sea without compromising navigational safety,” it said.

Source: The Edge Markets February 09, 2026 16:40 UTC