IRGC flexes Hormuz control as Iran’s leadership fractures over talks
ISW-CTP’s Iran Update notes that the IRGC Navy attacked and redirected two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on April 22, likely to press Iran’s sovereignty claims and disrupt shipping for concessions, in part a response to the US seizure of an Iranian-flagged vessel. The actions, and IRGC commander Ahmad Vahidi’s posture, suggest a readiness to resume war if needed, even as Iran’s decision-making remains fragmented with competing factions blocking a unified negotiating position. The US has extended the ceasefire to allow for a unified Iranian proposal, but internal divisions persist. Beyond Iran, Hezbollah and Iraqi militias continue attacks, while the US has paused some funding and dollar shipments to Iraqi security forces, signaling a broader, tense regional dynamic with negotiations unsettled and risk of renewed hostilities.