Iran’s military has intensified operations in the Persian Gulf, signaling IRGC naval readiness as tensions rise in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest actions underline Tehran’s focus on securing maritime borders and responding to recent attacks. The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Navy announced a new phase of operations on Thursday. Officials said forces carried out coordinated missile and drone strikes. These actions targeted several military facilities linked to the United States across the region.
According to the statement, strikes hit installations in the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Command centers, fuel storage units, and radar systems were among the reported targets. In addition, officials said the operation formed part of a broader response campaign. Meanwhile, Iranian forces emphasized that IRGC naval readiness remains central to their strategy. They stressed that maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz remains a top priority. The waterway connects global energy markets and handles a large share of oil shipments.
The developments follow a sharp escalation that began in late February. At that time, senior Iranian figures were killed in targeted strikes. Since then, Iran has launched repeated responses using missiles and drones. These actions have extended across multiple regional locations. Furthermore, authorities said they restricted tanker movements linked to opposing countries. As a result, shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has faced increased scrutiny. The corridor typically sees dozens of vessels daily, making disruptions highly significant for global trade.
In a related incident, officials reported that a large oil tanker withdrew from the strait. The vessel reportedly carried up to 160,000 tons of crude. However, it reversed course after encountering enforcement measures by Iranian forces. Officials described the episode as evidence of deterrence in action. They argued that IRGC naval readiness has shifted the balance in the strategic waterway. Moreover, they said enforcement measures aim to prevent miscalculations by foreign operators.
Analysts note that the Strait of Hormuz carries nearly a fifth of the global oil supply. Therefore, any disruption could influence energy prices and shipping insurance costs. In addition, regional stability plays a key role in maintaining steady supply chains. Looking ahead, tensions may continue to affect maritime traffic and energy markets. Observers expect further military signaling from both sides. However, diplomatic channels could still shape the next phase of developments.