IRGC Navy increases combat readiness as US beefs up Mideast presence

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy commander said combat readiness is the top priority for the coming year, citing a direct order from the Supreme Leader.

"Combat readiness and combat capability are our priority, because it is the order of the Supreme Leader," said Alireza Tangsiri in an interview with ILNA news agency on Sunday.

Tangsiri also elaborated on the Navy's plans to incorporate artificial intelligence into its weaponry, saying, "We must definitely be equipped with artificial intelligence, and this is a necessity for our work, which is happening."

He added, "The flag of this work, thank God, is in the hands of the Supreme Leader, and the knowledge of this work is in the hands of the Supreme Leader, and God willing, the dear young people will continue this work."

His announcement comes as the United States prepares to significantly increase its naval presence in the Middle East, a move directly tied to escalating tensions with the Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered two aircraft carrier strike groups to the region next month, a rare deployment intended to bolster US strikes against the Houthis, whose primary benefactor is Iran.

The buildup follows persistent Houthi attacks on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea, which the group frames as a response to the Israeli war in Gaza.

These attacks, which began in November 2023, have included missile and drone strikes on over 100 vessels, resulting in the sinking of two ships and the deaths of four sailors.

The extended deployment of the USS Harry S. Truman and the expedited arrival of the USS Carl Vinson will provide US commanders with increased capacity for patrols and strikes.