Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has released rare footage through state broadcaster IRIB showing cruise missile launches against vessels accused of ignoring Iranian restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, along with the deployment of naval mines in key shipping lanes and images of damaged tankers. The video captures IRGC forces carrying out the strikes under cover of darkness, with crews reportedly switching off their systems at night to avoid U.S. detection while conducting the operations. Officials in Tehran claim the targeted ships violated designated routes and safety rules that Iran has imposed amid escalating regional tensions. The footage includes scenes of missiles streaking toward ships and the moment vessels appear to strike mines, resulting in explosions and fires. These images mark one of the most detailed public displays yet of the IRGC Navy’s tactics in the vital waterway that carries a large share of the world’s oil. The release comes as Iran asserts tighter control over the strait and warns that further violations will meet the same response.

The images have drawn sharp attention because they appear to document both offensive missile strikes and the quiet placement of mines intended to disrupt unauthorized traffic. Iranian accounts describe the vessels as having attempted to transit prohibited paths while keeping their tracking systems dark, prompting the IRGC to act. Damaged tankers are shown with visible effects from the impacts or mine detonations, underscoring the risks now facing commercial shipping in the area. Crews involved in the operations are said to have operated with lights and communications minimized specifically to evade surveillance by U.S. forces monitoring the region. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most critical chokepoints for global energy supplies, and these revelations highlight how quickly confrontations there can escalate. The IRGC’s decision to publicize the footage signals a deliberate effort to demonstrate capability and deter further challenges to its declared restrictions.