Iran Launches Naval Drills in Strait of Hormuz Amidst Nuclear Talks and Rising Tensions

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) began a series of military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, February 16, 2026, coinciding with renewed diplomatic efforts with the United States. The drills, named “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz,” are led by the naval forces of the IRGC under the supervision of Commander-in-Chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour [Iran International], [Channel News Asia].

Escalating Tensions and Diplomatic Efforts

The exercises aim to prepare the IRGC for “potential security and military threats” in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil production passes [Channel News Asia]. This display of military readiness occurs on the eve of a fresh round of talks between Iran and the United States, mediated by Oman, scheduled for Tuesday in Geneva.

The two countries resumed discussions on February 6, 2026, in Muscat, Oman, marking their first diplomatic engagement since talks broke down in June 2025 during the Iran-Israel conflict, which involved strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities [Channel News Asia].

Nuclear Program and International Concerns

Iran maintains its “inalienable right” to develop a civilian nuclear sector and enrich uranium, adhering to the provisions of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) [Iran International]. Western countries and Israel suspect Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons, a claim Tehran denies.

During the talks, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei suggested a shift in the American position on the Iranian nuclear issue, describing it as becoming “more realistic” [Iran International]. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that “submission in the face of threats” is not on the table, stating Iran has “real ideas to reach a fair and equitable agreement” [Iran International].

Points of Contention and US Military Presence

While Iran focuses its discussions on its nuclear program, the United States insists on limitations to Iran’s ballistic missile program and a cessation of support for regional armed groups [Iran International].

The United States has increased its military presence in the region, with the USS Abraham Lincoln already deployed to the Gulf and the Gerald Ford aircraft carrier expected to join it, though the exact timing remains uncertain [Channel News Asia].

Recent Developments and IAEA Involvement

Technical discussions between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, took place in Geneva on February 16, 2026 [Iran International]. Inspectors from the UN agency have yet to visit nuclear sites targeted in the June 2025 strikes, which previously stalled negotiations.

Iran has indicated a willingness to compromise on its stock of highly enriched uranium, estimated at over 400 kg, if the United States lifts sanctions impacting the Iranian economy [Iran International]. Before the conflict in June 2025, Iran enriched uranium to 60%, nearing the 90% level required for nuclear weapons.

Domestic Unrest and International Response

Alongside the diplomatic and military developments, Mohammad Tayyeb Esmailzehi, the son of a prominent Sunni cleric in Iran, was detained after being pressured to publicly condemn recent unrest [Iran International]. He was reportedly threatened and questioned regarding the burning of mosques and the deaths of security forces during January’s protests.