Dialogos

Iran and Russia to Hold Joint Naval Drills as Israel Warns of Potential US-Iran War

Published February 18, 2026, 17:03
Iran and Russia to Hold Joint Naval Drills as Israel Warns of Potential US-Iran War

Iran and Russia will hold joint naval drills in the Gulf of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean tomorrow, strengthening their defense cooperation. The exercise comes after Iranian military exercises in the region, during which Tehran temporarily restricted navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, citing security concerns. The Strait of Hormuz is critical for global energy transport and any disruption causes concern. According to Iranian media, the exercise scenario focuses on “maritime security and cooperation,” as well as “countering threats to navigation.” Analysts estimate that the exercise is a message of deterrence and strengthening of Tehran, amid negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program. At the same time, a former Israeli military intelligence official warned that a military conflict between the US and Iran could begin in the next few days. Amoz Yadlin stated that the situation is more dangerous than ever, but stressed that all diplomatic avenues must be exhausted before any military action.