Iran, Russia, and China Launch Joint Naval Exercises in Indian Ocean
The drills aim to enhance regional security, strengthen military cooperation, and demonstrate strategic alignment among the three nations.
- The naval exercises, titled 'Maritime Security Belt 2025,' are set to begin Tuesday near the Iranian port city of Chabahar in the Gulf of Oman.
- Participating forces include warships from Iran, Russia, and China, as well as Iran's Revolutionary Guard, with a combined fleet of over 13 ships.
- The drills will focus on operations such as combating maritime threats, rescuing hijacked vessels, and conducting joint search-and-rescue missions.
- Nine countries, including Oman, South Africa, and Pakistan, are attending as observers to foster regional collaboration.
- The exercises underscore the growing military ties between Iran, Russia, and China, positioning them as a counterweight to U.S. influence in the region.