IRGC naval commander ridicules a US pledge to protect ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Here are Press TV's latest top stories at 16:00 GMT on February 17, 2026.

The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Navy (IRGCN) has reaffirmed that Iran maintains total, 24-hour intelligence surveillance over the Strait of Hormuz,

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri has affirmed the Iranian nation's unwavering resolve in the face of external threats, saying the country’s “intelligence, belief, and unity” would remain a steadfast barrier against the conspiracies of its adversaries.

The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy described the Strait of Hormuz as the “world’s vital oil and gas artery,” stressing that Iran has consistently ensured the security of this strategic waterway and never aimed to disrupt or close it.

The IRGC Navy commander says the force has manufactured a missile boat with a speed of 116 knots (215 kilometers).

The presence of foreign naval forces in the Persian Gulf undermines regional security and hampers Iran's efforts to safeguard this strategically critical area, according to the commander of Iran's IRGC Navy.