The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy issued a clear and firm warning to US warships operating near Iran’s southern waters as the force launched a major naval drill aimed at showcasing its defensive readiness and deterrent capabilities.

The exercise, named after “Martyr Mohammad Nazeri,” commander of the IRGC Navy’s elite units who was martyred in 2016, is being conducted across key maritime zones including the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, the Sea of Oman, and the surrounding islands.

According to information released by the IRGC Navy, American warships present in the region were directly warned to keep their distance from the drill’s operational area. The warning was described as a decisive message against any potential threats to Iran’s presence and security in its territorial waters.

The drill features integrated operations involving Iran’s domestically produced air defense systems, missile units, surveillance platforms, drones, and electronic warfare elements. Officials highlighted the simultaneous use of these systems as part of an effort to strengthen the force’s ability to detect, track, and respond to aerial and maritime threats.

IRGC Navy Commander Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri underlined that the ongoing drill enhances Iran’s constant monitoring activities in the region. “We are refining the methods, routes, and operational models of our naval presence,” he said, noting that foreign military buildup in the Persian Gulf continues to undermine regional stability.

Iranian authorities stressed that the exercise carries a message of peace and reassurance for neighboring countries while reaffirming that the country remains fully prepared against any external intervention. They emphasized that such drills will continue as long as foreign military forces maintain an intensified presence near Iran’s territorial waters.

The IRGC says the drill demonstrates the continuation of Iran’s path of resistance and the steady strengthening of its deterrence capabilities. (ILKHA)