Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has launched a naval drill in the Strait of Hormuz, just a day before a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States.
In a statement, the IRGC said the exercise, titled “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz,” aims to test operational readiness and assess maritime defence capabilities. The force added that the drill will evaluate security plans and simulate responses to potential military threats in the region while showcasing Iran’s strategic leverage.
Strategic waterway under spotlight
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical chokepoints, linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and serving as a key route for global energy shipments. Consequently, any military activity in the narrow waterway attracts international attention.
The IRGC stressed that rapid and decisive responses to maritime threats form the core of the drill’s objectives. Officials said the exercises will focus on intelligence coordination and operational preparedness to counter anti-security plots at sea.
Meanwhile, tensions have risen after Washington deployed additional military assets to the region. US President Donald Trump recently announced plans to send a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, adding to the presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln and accompanying warships.
Talks continue despite tensions
Despite the military posturing, Tehran and Washington are preparing for fresh nuclear negotiations in Geneva under Omani mediation. The talks follow the collapse of earlier discussions after regional hostilities last year.
Iranian military chief Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi warned that any war would deliver a harsh lesson to Washington. Still, both sides appear willing to resume dialogue, even as Western governments continue expressing concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions—claims Tehran firmly denies.
