Iran, Russia, and China Conduct Major Joint Naval Drills in the Gulf of Oman

The weeklong exercises, named 'Marine Security Belt 2024', aim to enhance maritime security and regional stability amidst growing tensions with the West.

• More than 20 ships, including warships and support vessels from Iran, Russia, and China, participated in the drills focused on anti-piracy operations and combat training.
• The exercises included firing at sea, rescue operations for hijacked merchant ships, and the use of naval helicopters and special operations teams.
• Iran has increased military cooperation with China and Russia in response to regional tensions, and the drills serve as a signal to the West amid the current geopolitical landscape.
• Observers from countries such as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan, and South Africa were present, highlighting the international interest in the exercises.
• The drills come against the backdrop of escalated attacks in the Red Sea and are part of a larger strategy by China, Russia, and Iran to assert their influence in the region.

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Voice of America (VOA News) The Telegraph South China Morning Post