Russia, China, and Iran to Hold Joint Naval Exercises in Indian Ocean
Russia will conduct joint naval exercises with China and Iran in the Indian Ocean this March. Dubbed ‘Security Belt-2025’, the drills aim to boost military cooperation and mutual trust among the nations. Various international observers will monitor the exercises, which occur amid heightened tensions between Iran and the U.S. regarding nuclear negotiations and sanctions.
Russia is preparing to conduct joint naval exercises with China and Iran in the Indian Ocean later this month, as announced by the Chinese defense ministry. The ‘Security Belt-2025’ exercises will occur near the port of Chabahar in Iran, according to Russian state media reports. This collaboration is part of a broader initiative to bolster military cooperation in the region, emphasizing security and mutual trust among the participant nations.
Chinese state media revealed that the Chinese naval contingent will feature a destroyer and a supply vessel, with the exercise plan encompassing activities such as striking maritime targets, damage control, and joint search and rescue operations. This training aims to enhance collaboration and operational readiness between the naval forces of Russia, China, and Iran.
Notably, observers from various nations including Azerbaijan, South Africa, Oman, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Qatar, Iraq, the UAE, and Sri Lanka will be present to monitor the exercises. Moreover, vessels from both the Iranian Navy and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps will participate, marking the seventh iteration of the ‘Security Belt’ exercises between the three countries.
Earlier this year, an agreement was signed between President Vladimir Putin of Russia and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to strengthen cooperation in military and trade sectors. This comes amidst escalating tensions between Iran and the United States regarding nuclear negotiations, with U.S. President Donald Trump engaging in discussions about a potential nuclear deal.
In light of these negotiations, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has reiterated his position against U.S. demands, emphasizing that negotiations should not be aimed at imposing dominance but rather at equitable solutions. Additionally, the U.S. recently imposed new sanctions targeting Iran’s oil industry, while Russia has expressed interest in mediating discussions between Iran and the U.S., signaling developments in international ties amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
The upcoming joint naval exercises between Russia, China, and Iran reflect a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing military cooperation and regional security in the Indian Ocean. Amidst international tensions, particularly concerning U.S.-Iran relations, these maneuvers signify deepening ties among these nations. The participation of various observers underscores the global interest in the evolving geopolitical landscape, as countries navigate complex diplomatic challenges.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
