Relevance: GS II (International Relations) & GS I (World Geography) | Source: The Hindu / IAEA
1. The Context: Talk and Tensions
On February 17, 2026, the world’s attention turned to two simultaneous events involving Iran:
- The Meeting (Geneva): Iran and the U.S. are holding secret, high-level talks in Switzerland. The goal is to prevent a nuclear crisis and discuss lifting economic sanctions.
- The Drill (Strait of Hormuz): While talking, Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) is conducting massive naval drills in the sea. This is a “show of strength” to prove they can protect their waters.
2. Why is the Strait of Hormuz so Important?
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow stretch of water that acts as the world’s most important “oil tap.”
- The Chokepoint: It connects the Persian Gulf (where oil is produced) to the Gulf of Oman (leading to the open ocean).
- Global Impact: Nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes through this tiny passage. If it gets blocked, petrol prices globally would skyrocket instantly.
- India’s Connection: India gets a huge portion of its crude oil and gas through this route. Any conflict here directly affects the price of fuel and transport in India.
3. The Strategy: “Asymmetric Warfare”
Iran knows it cannot beat the U.S. Navy in a traditional “big ship” battle. Instead, they use Asymmetric Warfare:
- Small & Fast: They use hundreds of small, fast boats and cheap drones to “swarm” large, expensive warships.
- Smart Control: Their latest drills focus on using electronics and drones to monitor and control who enters the Strait.
UPSC Value Box
| Term | Simple Definition |
| Strait of Hormuz | A strategic waterway between Iran (to the north) and Oman/UAE (to the south). It is the only sea route from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. |
| IAEA | The International Atomic Energy Agency. It is the UN’s “Nuclear Watchdog” that checks if countries are using nuclear energy for peace or for bombs. |
| Asymmetric Warfare | A type of war where a smaller, weaker force uses unconventional tactics (like tiny drones or fast boats) to fight a much larger, high-tech army. |
With reference to the “Strait of Hormuz,” consider the following statements:
- It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
- It is a strategic chokepoint located between Iran and Oman.
- Approximately one-fifth of the world’s total oil consumption passes through this strait.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: (b)
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