As Trump returns, Iran's IRGC steps up Hormuz military drills: What to know
Iran's influential hard-liners have long argued that closure of the oil-strategic strait can serve as a bargaining chip in any confrontation with Israel and the United States.
TEHRAN — Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) launched a series of drills in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday testing precision strikes in mock attacks on invading vessels.
According to reports and videos broadcast by the state television, the naval exercise showcased drones, surface-to-surface missiles and torpedoes. The first day of the drills focused on combined firepower, intelligence oversight, air defense and vessel boarding tactics.
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow, vital maritime path responsible for nearly 20% of the global oil traffic.
In comments cited by the IRGC-affiliated Fars News, Navy Commander Rear Adm. Alireza Tangsiri said the drills' message was one of "regional friendship," while also demonstrating Iran's military might.
