Oct 15, IRIB reported Iran's commander‑in‑chief Hatami said the Strait of Hormuz
remains closed and claims it has reopened are false; it will not reopen until
the rights of the Iranian people are respected. He said the IRGC navy controls
the western Strait while the army's naval forces control the eastern Strait and
the Gulf of Oman. Hatami said Iran has stepped up maritime operations recently,
with numerous vessels it was deemed in violation struck by mines or attacked. He
added Iran used a recent lull to repair wartime damage and has increased
equipment numbers, quality and combat readiness, saying forces are prepared for
any war. Hatami warned that if Iranian infrastructure is attacked, Iran will
retaliate against enemy infrastructure and interests several‑fold and urged
adversaries not to attack.
