Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, Defense Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran, has outlined one of the primary objectives of the "Maritime Security Belt - 2024" naval exercises, which include participation from Russia, Iran, and China, as a "demonstration of strength." Ashtiani made these remarks to reporters, as reported by Tasnim news agency.
"These exercises are conducted to show force. In these maneuvers, the three major world powers are jointly practicing actions to ensure stability in the region and the security of crucial sea lanes," Ashtiani stated. He also highlighted the significance of the participation of observers from countries such as Oman, Pakistan, and Azerbaijan, indicating the importance of the exercise.
Commander of the Imam Ali Military Base of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, Amrullah Nozari, further elaborated on the joint exercises, noting that Iran's contribution included two frigates and three cruisers. The maneuvers cover an area of 17,000 square kilometers, encompassing three of the five most significant straits of the northern Indian Ocean. Nozari emphasized that these exercises demonstrate the combined capability of Iran, China, and Russia to ensure global security.
The Maritime Security Belt 2024 international naval exercises mark the sixth occurrence since 2018, with continuous participation from the navies of Iran, China, and Russia. This year's maneuvers in the Arabian Sea's Gulf of Oman involve more than 20 ships, support vessels, and combat boats from the fleets of the three countries. The primary aim of these maneuvers is to practice ensuring the security of maritime economic activity. For the first time, observers from the navies of Azerbaijan, India, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan, and South Africa are participating.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: mostafa meraji/Pixabay
Based on materials from TASS