The Iranian Navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has launched extensive military exercises in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The maneuvers, codenamed 'Smart Control,' are taking place amid rising regional tensions and an increased presence of the US Navy in the Persian Gulf. These actions precede planned diplomatic talks between Tehran and Washington regarding Iran's disputed nuclear program, which experts interpret as a clear political signal.

Start of IRGC Maneuvers

Elite Iranian units have launched naval and aerial exercises named Smart Control in the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic Context

The show of force comes one day before key talks with the US in Geneva regarding Tehran's nuclear program.

US Fleet

Two US aircraft carriers are operating in the region: the USS Gerald R. Ford and the USS Abraham Lincoln, heightening tensions.

On Monday, February 16, 2026, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps inaugurated intensive military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation, officially named 'Smart Control over the Strait of Hormuz,' involves the mobilization of naval and aerial units. According to the semi-official Tasnim agency, the primary goal of the maneuvers is to test operational readiness to counter potential military and security threats. Iranian state media emphasize that the exercises are directly supervised by the command of the IRGC. The Strait of Hormuz has been a flashpoint in international relations for decades. Iran has repeatedly threatened to block it in response to economic sanctions, which could paralyze global energy markets. The show of force occurs amid a significant concentration of US troops in the region. Last week, Washington deployed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford with its escort toward Iran, joining the already operating aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. Such a scale of US naval presence has not been seen in months. The exercises coincide with another round of nuclear talks in Geneva scheduled for Tuesday. Experts suggest that Tehran is using the maneuvers as a tool of diplomatic pressure to strengthen its negotiating position ahead of the meeting with US representatives. „The maneuvers aim to prepare operational forces for possible scenarios in response to military threats in this strategic area.” — Iranian State Television The situation raises concerns in the international community due to the strait's critical importance to the global economy. One-fifth of the world's demand for energy resources flows through this narrow passage. Although Iran has not specified how long the exercises will last, their intensity and timing indicate a desire to demonstrate full control over the waters. It is worth noting that the European Union recently classified the IRGC as a terrorist organization, further sharpening the political context of the events. 20% — of the world's oil flows through Hormuz Tensions in the Hormuz Region: February 9 — Deployment of USS Gerald R. Ford; February 16 — Start of Maneuvers; February 17 — Talks in Geneva