Iran, China, Russia hold joint naval drill despite Trump threats: What we know
The drill took place as the United States and Iran remain at odds over the latter’s nuclear program.
Iran is hosting the navies of Russia and China for a major, multiday naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman, showcasing its strength despite recent threats from US President Donald Trump.
Chinese and Russian warships entered Iranian territorial waters Monday afternoon local time for the exercise, their fifth since 2019. Vessels from Iran’s navy and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps are participating in the exercise, the official Islamic Republic News Agency reported.
The exercise will utilize warships, combat vessels and logistical ships, aiming to promote bilateral cooperation and maritime security. The sailors will conduct drills on combating piracy and terrorism, maritime rescue operations and related activities, the IRGC-affiliated Tasnim news agency reported.
The drill will include observers from Qatar, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Azerbaijan, South Africa, Kazakhstan, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, according to the Islamic Republic News Agency.
