Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has commenced military exercises in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route, ahead of anticipated talks between Iran and the United States scheduled for Tuesday in Geneva, with Oman serving as mediator.
Iranian state television reported that the drills began Monday and are designed to prepare IRGC forces for potential security and military threats in the waterway. The duration of the exercises was not disclosed.
The Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 20 percent of global oil shipments, making it one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.
The exercises come amid a significant US military buildup in the Gulf region.
Donald Trump recently described the deployment of naval forces including the USS Abraham Lincoln and the incoming USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier as an “armada” intended to reinforce American presence and safeguard regional interests.
Iranian hardline figures have repeatedly warned that Tehran could block the Strait during heightened tensions.
The drills are being supervised by General Mohammad Pakpour, commander of the IRGC Ground Forces, and are aimed at improving rapid response capabilities.
The exercises coincide with renewed diplomatic engagement between Tehran and Washington, marking the first talks since relations deteriorated following last year’s Iran–Israel conflict.
