![Iranian military personnel take part in an exercise titled "Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz", launched by the Naval Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is being carried out in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz on February 16, 2026. [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps - Anadolu Agency]](https://i0.wp.com/www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/AA-20260216-40574970-40574967-IRAN_LAUNCHES_MILITARY_EXERCISE_IN_THE_STRAIT_OF_HORMUZ_AGAINST_SECURITY_THREATS.jpg?fit=920%2C613&ssl=1)
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Ahmad Vahidi said on Thursday that the Strait of Hormuz represents a strategic “red line” for Iran, rejecting the presence of extra-regional forces and any threats or interference involving the strategic waterway.
Vahidi said protecting and preserving the Strait of Hormuz was directly linked to Iran’s national interests, emphasising that Tehran considers its security a strategic priority.
He added that Iran regarded the presence of forces from outside the region in the strait, or any attempt to use the waterway for threats or interference, as unacceptable.
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