Defense expert Cameron Chell called Iran's military moves a "calculated escalation" as U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drones with strike capabilities were reportedly spotted in the region.

Feb 18 (Reuters) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, in ⁠an ⁠interview made public on Wednesday, ⁠said that any new U.S. strike on Iran would have ​serious consequences and called for restraint to find a solution to enable Iran to pursue ‌a peaceful nuclear programme.

Iranian Rear Admiral Hassan Maqsoudlou said the drills reflect both countries' focus on the regional situation.

Iran held annual military drills with Russia on Thursday as a second American aircraft carrier drew closer to the Middle East, with both the United States and Iran signaling they are prepared for war if talks on Tehran's nuclear program fizzle out.

Iran has been joined by Russia and China in deploying naval vessels for a joint live-fire exercise in the Strait

The poll, conducted for Bloomberg by Nanos Research Group, found 55% of Canadians believe the U.S. currently poses the greatest risk to Canada’s national security. Only 15% selected China, while 14% named Russia and 2% chose Iran.

US envoy Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner are meeting with Iranian officials today in Geneva. Follow here for the latest.

The U.S. military could reportedly be ready to strike Iran as soon as this weekend. Hilary Duff's 'Lucky Me' tour: How to get tickets, prices, dates and more