Monday 16/February/2026 – 01:12 PM
Today, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the launch of complex and intensive maneuvers under the name “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz,” carried out by the Guard’s naval forces under the supervision and field follow-up of the General Command, led by Major General Muhammad Pakpour, in the strategic Strait of Hormuz region.
The Revolutionary Guards statement, according to Fars News Agency, explained that the maneuvers are taking place with the focus of the naval forces, and aim to assess the readiness of the participating units, review scenarios for confronting potential threats, in addition to making smart use of the geopolitical advantages that Iran enjoys.
The statement indicated that the information and operational exercises focus on a rapid, decisive and comprehensive response by the operational forces of the Revolutionary Guard, to confront any hostile plans that threaten security at sea.
Movements of American aircraft carriers in the region
Meanwhile, American media reported that the United States intends to send a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East, in light of escalating tensions with Iran.
The New York Times reported, citing American officials, that the aircraft carrier “Gerald R. Ford” and its accompanying ships will head to the Middle East from the Caribbean.
US President Donald Trump said earlier this week that he was studying the option of sending a second aircraft carrier to the region if an agreement was not reached with Iran.
These moves come after the arrival of the first aircraft carrier, the Abraham Lincoln, to the Middle East last January, accompanied by a number of destroyers equipped with guided missiles.
