IRGC exercises test readiness in strategic waterway as U.S. military presence grows and talks with Tehran resume
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched a major naval exercise called “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz,” aimed at testing the operational readiness of its naval forces and security plans in the strategically vital waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Supervised by IRGC Chief Commander Maj. Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, the drills focus on assessing readiness, reviewing response scenarios to potential security threats, and demonstrating what Tehran describes as intelligent use of its geopolitical advantages in the region.
The exercise comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, even as diplomats from both countries meet in Geneva, Switzerland, for a second round of indirect talks. Iran is seeking agreements on its nuclear program, while Washington has hinted at broader security concerns.
U.S. military assets, including warships and aircraft, remain deployed across the Middle East to deter escalation, and U.S. officials have warned Iran to ensure any drills comply with international norms and do not threaten freedom of navigation.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial global oil transit chokepoint, making the exercise significant for regional security and energy markets.
