They probably timed it with Bush's visit to the ME.
The following is from GlobalSecurity.org
Elaine Sciolino pointed out in her April 20, 1997, article in `The New York Times,' the potential for real conflict between the United States and Iran is significant, `when two enemy navies with vastly different military missions and governments that do not talk to each other are crowded into such a small, highly strategic body of water.' The acquisition by Iran of advanced cruise missiles, like the C-802 model, must be considered a serious threat to stability, given the explosive situation that already exists. Iran's intent seems clear: to challenge the United States for predominance in the Gulf.