US CENTCOM issues warning over Iran’s naval drills in Strait of Hormuz

2026-01-31 - 03:56

NEW YORK – US Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a warning to Iran, stating that it will not tolerate any unsafe actions by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) during their planned naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM’s statement came in response to Iran’s announcement that it would hold two days of military drills in the strategically important waterway beginning on February 1. The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Gulf, is a key oil export route, linking major oil-producing countries like Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and the UAE to global markets. The US military emphasized that more than 100 commercial ships pass through the Strait of Hormuz daily, making it a vital route for global trade. CENTCOM stated that while Iran has the right to conduct military drills, they must be carried out in a safe and professional manner to avoid disrupting international maritime traffic. The US military further warned that any unsafe or unprofessional conduct near US forces, regional partners, or commercial vessels could lead to dangerous encounters. This development comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, with concerns mounting over a potential military conflict. In related developments, US President Donald Trump previously warned Iran, stating that a massive U.S. naval fleet, led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, was heading toward the region. Iranian officials, in turn, have warned of a swift and comprehensive response to any potential U.S. attack but also reiterated their willingness to engage in talks, provided the conditions are fair, balanced, and free from pressure. Meanwhile, European Union foreign ministers have approved the designation of Iran’s IRGC as a terrorist organization, adding another layer of complexity to the already tense situation.