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Iran holds military drills with Russia amid tensions with US

Iran and Russia's annual naval drills included live-fire and missile-launching exercises to enhance coordination and signal deterrence amid stalled nuclear talks and U.S. military buildup.

  • On February 18, Iran's navy initiated joint drills with Russia off its southern coast, focusing on the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman.
  • Amid a growing U.S. military buildup, Tehran framed the exercises as defensive to prevent unilateral action and respond to U.S. pressure during U.S.-Iran talks on a nuclear deal.
  • Participating units included Iranian navy and IRGC forces alongside a Russian corvette, reportedly Stoikiy, practicing aerial imaging, tactical formations, offensive scenarios, and hijacked-vessel rescues.
  • Iran and Russia's joint naval drills increase regional risks amid U.S. military buildup, with officials warning of escalation dangers, according to sources.
  • Despite past Chinese participation, Beijing did not appear to join these exercises, while the IRGC is expected to be designated as a terrorist organization by the EU this week.
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  • 35% of the sources are Center, 35% of the sources lean Right
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Anadolu Ajansı broke the news in Ankara, Türkiye on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
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