U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a stern warning to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) ahead of a planned two-day live-fire naval exercise in the Strait of Hormuz, urging Tehran to avoid escalatory and unsafe behavior at sea.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, through which approximately 20-30% of global oil trade passes daily.
In a statement released on January 30, CENTCOM responded directly to Iran’s announcement of the IRGC exercise, scheduled for February 1-2, 2026.
“U.S. Central Command urges the IRGC to conduct the announced naval exercise in a manner that is safe, professional and avoids unnecessary risk to freedom of navigation for international maritime traffic,” the statement read.
CENTCOM emphasized the strait’s role as an “essential trade corridor that supports regional economic prosperity,” noting that around 100 merchant vessels transit the narrow passage each day.
The U.S. military acknowledged Iran’s right to operate in international waters but warned against actions that could lead to collision or escalation, specifically citing past incidents such as high-speed approaches, armed overflights, or weapons targeting U.S. forces.
“Any unsafe and unprofessional behavior near U.S. forces, regional partners or commercial vessels increases risks of collision, escalation, and destabilization,” CENTCOM stated.
The IRGC Navy is known for its asymmetric tactics, often employing swarms of fast attack craft.
The warning comes amid heightened U.S.-Iran tensions in early 2026, including the recent arrival of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the region and reports of increased U.S. military preparedness.
CENTCOM reiterated its commitment to protecting U.S. personnel and ensuring freedom of navigation, stating that American forces “will continue to operate with the highest levels of professionalism” while holding the IRGC to the same standard.
As the exercise approaches, international observers will closely monitor developments in this vital waterway.