Iran said Friday it has kicked off annual military drills Friday in the critical Strait of Hormuz even as Tehran continues its crackdown on anti-government protests that have spread throughout the country.
The Strait of Hormuz is the most important chokepoint for the world’s oil supply, with more than 15 million barrels passing through the strait every day. The U.S. Navy routinely patrols the strait to ensure the free flow of maritime traffic, leading to multiple tense clashes over the years with Iranian vessels.
Ground, naval and air forces will take part in the joint maneuvers, dubbed “Zolfaqar-1401” to show “self-confidence, power, and sustainable security,” Iranian officials said.