Military Show of Force in the Strait of Hormuz on the Eve of Nuclear Negotiations

The situation in the Persian Gulf has sharply escalated on the eve of crucial diplomatic talks. Tehran, utilizing the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has initiated exercises in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation's goal is to test unit readiness in the face of "potential security threats" and to demonstrate control over the key transport route. According to Iranian state media, the maneuvers, named "Smart Control," encompass naval and aerial operations supervised by the highest military command. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important logistical chokepoints; for decades it has been an arena of confrontation, as control over it allows for the blockade of oil transport from the Persian Gulf.Simultaneously, the United States has taken steps to drastically increase its military presence in the region. The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford is being moved to the Middle East to join the stationed unit USS Abraham Lincoln. In addition to naval forces, the US is relocating additional fighter jets and tanker aircraft from the United Kingdom. American command emphasizes that the reinforcement of the contingent is intended to act as a deterrent against Iran, which has recently been accused of seizing tankers in the Indian Ocean. Such a massive concentration of forces from both sides raises concerns about an accidental escalation of conflict. „The main goal of the exercises is to prepare operational forces to respond to any military scenarios and threats in maritime territories.” — Iranian state mediaExperts indicate that this show of force is directly related to the upcoming round of talks in Geneva. The American side, represented by an administration under time pressure, aims to limit Iran's nuclear program. Meanwhile, Tehran is trying to develop forceful arguments that could facilitate the lifting of economic sanctions imposed on the country. The situation is complicated by the fact that a blockade of the strait by Iran could destabilize global fuel markets, which constitutes a powerful bargaining chip in the hands of the ayatollahs. 20% — of global oil transport flows through the Strait of Hormuz Currently, public attention is shifting towards Switzerland, where diplomats will attempt to defuse the tension. However, military movements on the ground suggest that neither side is ready for unilateral concessions. The intensification of American tanker flights and the high activity of Iranian missile boats in the strait area mean the margin for diplomatic error is shrinking. Liberal French media emphasize the risk of escalation caused by the presence of two US aircraft carriers and the need for diplomatic dialogue. | German and American conservative media highlight the necessity of deterring Iran in light of its aggressive maneuvers in strategic points.