Russia to Conduct Joint Naval Exercises with China and Iran in Indian Ocean

Russia is set to engage in naval exercises with China and Iran, called ‘Security Belt-2025’, in the Indian Ocean. The drills aim to bolster military cooperation and will involve observational participation from multiple countries. Tensions in U.S.-Iran relations persist, especially in the context of nuclear negotiations and new sanctions imposed by the U.S.

Russia is preparing to conduct joint naval exercises with China and Iran in the Indian Ocean, as announced by the Chinese Ministry of Defence. The exercises, dubbed ‘Security Belt-2025’, will occur later this month, near the Port of Chabahar in Iran, according to reports from Russian state media.

This collaborative military maneuver will involve a Chinese destroyer and a supply ship. The drills will include operations focused on striking maritime targets, damage control, and joint search and rescue missions, aimed at enhancing mutual trust and practical cooperation among the participating naval forces, per statements from the Chinese Ministry of Defence.

Observers from nine countries, including Azerbaijan, South Africa, Oman, Pakistan, and Qatar, are expected to monitor the exercises. The Iranian Navy and the Naval Force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) will actively participate in the drills, which mark the seventh iteration of the “Security Belt” exercises between Iran, Russia, and China.

In January, an agreement was struck between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including military and trade. This move follows increasing tensions between Iran and the U.S., particularly after former President Donald Trump sought a deal to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, which Tehran labeled as “bullying.”

Recently, following a communication from Trump to Iranian leadership regarding discussions on a nuclear deal, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei stated that Iran could only be addressed through military action or by negotiating a deal. He accused the U.S. of attempting to impose excessive restrictions in negotiations. Alongside these developments, the U.S. has introduced a new set of sanctions targeting Iran’s oil industry, further straining relations.

On a different note, Russia has expressed its willingness to facilitate new nuclear negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, possibly indicating a thaw in relations between the U.S. and Russia amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In summary, Russia, China, and Iran are set to collaborate in naval exercises in the Indian Ocean to reinforce military ties and coordination. The exercises will include various drills aimed at strengthening mutual trust among the nations. Meanwhile, tensions persist between Iran and the U.S. regarding nuclear discussions, alongside the imposition of new sanctions by the U.S. Russia’s willingness to mediate nuclear talks suggests potential shifts in international diplomacy.

Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com