TEHRAN, May 4 (Xinhua) -- Iran on Monday warned the U.S. army against entering the Strait of Hormuz.

"We warn that any foreign armed forces, especially the aggressive U.S. army, will be attacked if they intend to approach and enter the Strait of Hormuz," said Iran's main military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, in a statement.

The warning came after the United States announced it would start on Monday to free ships stranded in the waterway.

"We have repeatedly said the security of the Strait of Hormuz is in our hands and that the safe passage of vessels needs to be coordinated with the armed forces," the Iranian army said. ■