Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced the temporary closure of parts of the Strait of Hormuz for a few hours on February 17, 2026, to conduct military drills. The move, reported by Fars News Agency, was described as a “security precaution” to ensure shipping safety amid heightened regional tensions and upcoming US–Iran talks.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) carried out large-scale military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. According to Fars News Agency, sections of the strait were closed for several hours as part of “security precautions” to safeguard shipping during the drills.
The exercises, named “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz”, included missile launches, drone operations, and naval maneuvers. Analysts note that the timing coincides with renewed US–Iran nuclear talks in Geneva, underscoring Tehran’s intent to showcase military readiness while engaging in diplomacy.
Despite the temporary closure, shipping disruptions were minimal, though global energy markets closely monitored the situation given the strait’s strategic importance—through which nearly 20% of global oil trade passes.
Key Highlights
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Closure Duration: Few hours on February 17, 2026
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Reason: Security precautions during IRGC military drills
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Exercise Name: “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz”
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Activities: Missile launches, drone operations, naval maneuvers
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Strategic Context: Coincides with US–Iran nuclear talks in Geneva
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Market Impact: Limited disruption, but heightened global attention
This development highlights Iran’s dual strategy of demonstrating military strength while negotiating diplomatically, reinforcing the Strait of Hormuz’s role as a geopolitical flashpoint.
Sources: Reuters, Fars News Agency, Economic Times, News18