Fourteen members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed during an operation to remove unexploded ordnance in Iran. Following the incident, the IRGC announced the enforcement of new regulations within Iran’s coastal waters.

The explosion occurred in the northwestern Zanjan province while a specialized unit was clearing unexploded bombs and mines. According to the Fars news agency, two additional members were injured in the blast.

Escalating Regional Tensions
The incident comes amid peak tensions across the Middle East, with Iran, the United States, and Israel trading continuous threats. Fears of a fresh outbreak of conflict remain high.

In an attempt to de-escalate, Iran reportedly sent a new proposal through Pakistani mediators last Thursday (April 30). However, the United States remains unsatisfied with the terms.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Tehran is failing to agree to the type of deal Washington seeks. Trump emphasized that the pressure will not cease until U.S. objectives are met, expressing doubt over whether Iran is truly capable of reaching an agreement.

New Maritime Regulations
In a separate statement, the IRGC announced a new security framework for its maritime borders. The Revolutionary Guard’s naval wing intends to establish firm control over approximately 2,000 kilometers of coastline along the Arabian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, describing the move as a source of "pride and strength" for the Iranian people.

Supreme Leader Calls for Victory in ‘Economic War’
Marking May Day, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, issued a written message asserting that Iran has already demonstrated its military prowess to the world. He called on the nation to mirror that success by defeating "enemies" in the ongoing "economic and cultural wars."