Yesterday, Iran temporarily closed the Strait of Hormuz duringa live fire exercise by the IRGC Navy called “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz.” Closing the strait is a key part of the Iranian strategy should the U.S. launch a war. Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, said yesterday that Iran is prepared to close the Strait of Hormuz whenever instructed by the country’s senior authorities.
According to Tangsiri, the drill focused on rapid and decisive responses to maritime security threats. He said IRGC rapid reaction units regularly train to inspect or, if necessary, seize vessels suspected of violations, in coordination with other security bodies responsible for safeguarding maritime transit.
At the same time, the Russians and Chinese are coming for the “Maritime Security Belt 2026” exercise in the Hormuz strait. Mehr News cited Kremlin advisor Nikolai Patrushev announcing it yesterday. The trilateral drills, initiated by Iran’s Navy, aim to strengthen maritime security, enhance cooperation against piracy and maritime terrorism, and conduct coordinated rescue operations, Mehr reported. According to official statements, the drills are intended to ensure safe global trade routes in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime passages. The exact dates of the exercise however was not reported
Russian, Chinese, and Iranian naval units are expected to participate with various ships and operational capabilities to test coordination, tactical readiness, and rapid-response procedures in the Strait of Hormuz. Officials describe the exercises as a demonstration of regional security cooperation and commitment to the protection of international shipping lanes.
In fact, the Russians are already there. TASS reported yesterday that the Baltic Fleet corvette Stoiky participated in a passing exercise with Iranian Navy vessels in the Gulf of Oman. The Baltic Fleet press service detailed that after departing from port, Russian and Iranian naval crews engaged in coordinated maneuvers, communication drills, and civilian shipping safety exercises. Command of the joint forces rotated between Russian and Iranian officers throughout the exercise. The primary goal of the exercise was to bolster naval cooperation between Russia and Iran.
