Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published loading...Updated

Iran holds military drills with Russia amid tensions with US

Iran and Russia held combined naval exercises involving warships and aircraft to enhance coordination and deter unilateral actions amid rising U.S. military forces, officials said.

  • 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.
Insights by Ground AI

9 Articles

Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 45% of the sources are Center
45% Center

Factuality Info Icon

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

Info Icon

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

CNBC broke the news in United States on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Too Big Arrow Icon
Sources are mostly out of (0)

Similar News Topics

News
Feed Dots Icon
For You
Search Icon
Search
Blindspot LogoBlindspotLocal