Internal Divisions in Iranian Regime Intensify as U.S. Blockade Tightens

Iran’s military declared the Strait of Hormuz closed again on Saturday, following a chaotic 24 hours of mixed signals from the regime that underscored deepening divisions within its leadership. Early Friday, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated the strait was "completely" open to ships adhering to Iran’s established routes, a claim contradicted by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) later that day.

IRGC-affiliated news outlet Tasnim criticized Araghchi’s statement, labeling it a "complete lack of tact in information dissemination." Fars News, another IRGC-aligned agency, further amplified the backlash, claiming Araghchi’s announcement had plunged Iranian society into "an atmosphere of confusion."

Factional Power Struggle

The internal discord comes amid heightened U.S. pressure on Iran, including a naval blockade targeting the strait, a critical global oil chokepoint. Since the U.S. and Israel initiated hostilities against Iran in February, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the IRGC has taken a more assertive role in shaping Iran’s military and diplomatic strategy.

"Because the main arbitrator is gone, the fight between different factions has started," said Saeid Golkar, an Iran expert at the University of Tennessee.

The Institute for the Study of War noted that the IRGC’s criticism of Araghchi reflects broader rifts within the regime, exacerbated by Khamenei’s absence as a unifying figure. These divisions have reportedly disrupted ceasefire talks, with factions pushing divergent negotiating positions.

U.S. Blockade Persists

Admiral Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command, confirmed Friday that the blockade would continue "as long as necessary," emphasizing its effectiveness in preventing ship movement and removing mines from the Gulf. Lloyd’s List Intelligence reported that at least five Iran-linked tankers en route to Malaysia have altered course since the blockade tightened.

The IRGC warned that the U.S. naval blockade would hinder any reopening of the strait, further straining Iran’s economy and its military’s primary funding source. Despite ongoing attacks on ships in the Persian Gulf by IRGC-backed forces, Iran’s leadership has signaled that diplomatic efforts remain in play.