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GeopoliticsMedium•17 February 2026•

1 min read

Iran, Russia, and China Launch Joint Naval Drills in Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

US flag on map, Middle East map, warships, oil tankers, oil barrels, and naval mines on water, with trade routes and an upward trend graph.

Iran, Russia, and China have commenced joint naval exercises titled "Maritime Security Belt 2026" in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The drills take place against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, coinciding with the US deployment of two nuclear-powered aircraft carriers to the area. Russian official Nikolay Patrushev emphasized that the maneuvers are intended to promote a multipolar world order and challenge Western dominance in vital waterways. As the Strait of Hormuz serves as a critical artery for global energy supplies, the military activity has significantly increased the geopolitical risk premium in global markets. Market analysts expect these developments to exert upward pressure on Brent Crude and WTI prices due to supply disruption fears. Additionally, the escalation is driving safe-haven demand for Gold (XAU/USD) as investors hedge against potential instability in the Middle East.