The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy has declared that it is fully prepared to close the Strait of Hormuz if ordered by the country’s senior leadership. Rear Admiral Ali Reza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, made the statement while overseeing military exercises titled “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz”, according to Iranian news agencies. He emphasized that the decision to block or control the strait rests solely with Iran’s top leadership, but as a soldier, he and his forces are prepared to execute the mission whenever instructed.

The exercises, conducted on Tuesday, temporarily halted maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz for several hours as part of a broader drill to demonstrate operational readiness and naval capabilities. The second phase of the exercise involved rapid-response units of the IRGC Navy, focusing on securing safe maritime passage while also practicing offensive and defensive maneuvers. Various weapon systems were deployed during the drill, and military experts noted that the pre-designated targets were hit with high precision, highlighting the effectiveness of the training.

IRGC fast-attack missile boats also fired live missiles to simulate actual combat scenarios, while missiles launched from coastal areas and islands successfully struck targets in the strait. In addition, drone units conducted signal-jamming operations and targeted both moving and stationary targets using attack and surveillance drones, demonstrating Iran’s integrated approach to maritime defense and electronic warfare.

Rear Admiral Tangsiri clarified that the weapons used in the exercises differ from those that would be employed in actual wartime scenarios, but the drills serve to showcase the capability and readiness of Iran’s naval forces. The announcement comes amid ongoing regional tensions and serves as a warning to international actors that Iran can assert control over one of the world’s most strategically important maritime chokepoints if deemed necessary.

The IRGC’s statements underline Tehran’s strategic posture in the Persian Gulf, emphasizing that the country maintains both the will and the operational capability to protect its interests in the region. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for global oil shipments, and Iran’s demonstration is likely to attract international attention and concern due to the potential implications for global energy security.

By conducting these exercises, the IRGC aims to send a clear signal regarding its preparedness for maritime control operations, integrating conventional naval assets, missile systems, and modern drone technology to ensure precision and effectiveness. Analysts observing the drills noted the coordination between different naval units, highlighting the IRGC’s growing emphasis on combining speed, firepower, and technological capabilities to secure strategic waterways.