Naval maneuver is expected to take place near the Strait of Hormuz - US-Iranian tensions focus • Iranian Iranian: "The exercise - proof that Iran cannot be isolated"
Chinese destroyer alongside an Iranian ship during the maneuver // Photo: AFP
Iran launched a joint maritime exercise with China and Russia on Friday. The exercise, which takes place in Iran's territorial waters as well as other points in the Indian Ocean, was seen in Tehran as an opportunity to prove that the country is not politically isolated.
"The most important message sent by these maneuvers is that it is impossible to isolate Iran," said Lt. Admiral Gulhamerza Thani, adding: "The exercises prove that relations between China, Russia and Iran are strong and will continue to be such in the near future."
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The maneuvers, which include the practice of rescuing under attack firearms and seizures of hijacked vessels, began in the Iranian port city of Chabhar in Oman Bay. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the exercise was aimed at "strengthening security cooperation between the countries of the region and responding to terrorist threats."
Iranian salt during maneuvering events // Photo: AFP
The extensive maritime maneuvers are taking place in the Strait of Hormuz, a point of friction between the United States and its allies from the Persian Gulf to Iran. Earlier this year, Iran took over a British tanker sailing in the region and attacked the Fujira oil port in the United Arab Emirates.
Tensions in the region peaked when in June, Iran intercepted an American UAV, claiming international sex. President of the United States, Donald Trump, announcing an effort to form an international coalition to secure Hormuz freedom.
