661 Iran Launches 'Lockdown' Of Key Oil Route Hormuz Strait, Shocks US Navy Just Before 2nd Meeting?

17 Feb 2026Iran declared a lockdown over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil route, just before US-Iran nuclear talks. The lockdown, involving surveillance of surface ships, aerial drones, and submarines, is part of Iran’s military posturing amid heightened tensions and US threats of military strikes. The drills coincide with the second round of nuclear talks in Geneva, where Iran is offering potential deals in energy, mining, and aircraft sectors as bargaining chips.