Iran and Russia will conduct joint naval exercises in the Gulf of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean on Thursday, according to Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency. The announcement comes just days after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) carried out military drills in the Strait of Hormuz.
اضافة اعلان
The agency quoted Iranian Navy commander Hassan Maqsoudlou as saying that achieving coordination and alignment in joint operations to confront activities threatening maritime security and safety—along with combating maritime terrorism—are among the main objectives of the exercises.
On Monday, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps began military maneuvers in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The drills aim to prepare the Guard for “potential security and military threats” in the Strait of Hormuz, following the deployment of a significant U.S. naval force in the Gulf.
Some Iranian officials have previously threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20% of global oil production passes.
The exercises are being overseen by IRGC commander Major General Mohammad Pakpour.
Iranian media reported that the drills are intended to enhance the IRGC’s rapid response capabilities.
Reuters
