China, Iran, and Russia have commenced a joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman, a strategically significant waterway near the entrance of the Persian Gulf. The drill, named 'Marine Security Belt 2024,' is currently underway, as confirmed by officials on Tuesday.
Chinese state television and a video released by the Russian navy have showcased footage of the ongoing exercise. China has deployed the guided-missile destroyer Urumqi and the guided-missile frigate Linyi, while Russia's forces are being led by the Varyag, a Slava-class cruiser. The joint drill involves more than 20 ships, support vessels, combat boats, and naval helicopters from the three participating countries.
According to a report by Iranian state television, Admiral Mostafa Tajaddini, the spokesperson for the drill, stated that the exercise will cover an area of 17,000 square kilometers (6,600 square miles) of water. Tajaddini emphasized that the primary objectives of the drill include enhancing trade, combating piracy and terrorism, supporting humanitarian activities, and facilitating the exchange of information related to rescue operations.
This joint naval drill marks the fourth collaboration between China, Iran, and Russia since 2019. Iran's increased military cooperation with Beijing and Moscow is seen as a response to escalating regional tensions with the United States. Notably, Iran has supplied military drones to Russia, which are currently being utilized in Moscow's conflict in Ukraine.
Several countries, including Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan, and South Africa, are serving as observers of the ongoing drill in the Gulf of Oman. The region has witnessed a series of attacks since 2019, with the U.S. attributing some incidents to Iran. Tehran has also been involved in seizing ships following the breakdown of its nuclear agreement with global powers. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage in the Persian Gulf, facilitates the transit of one-fifth of the world's traded oil.
