China, Russia, and Iran Demonstrate Naval Power in Middle East Waters
Recent live-fire exercises by warships from China, Russia, and Iran in a strategic Middle Eastern waterway have showcased a strong show of force by the three nations, underlining their strategic presence in the volatile region. State-run media reports highlight the joint naval drills as a significant display of military cooperation.
Warships from China, Russia, and Iran conducted live-fire exercises in the Gulf of Oman this week, showcasing their strength in the region. According to state-run media reports, over 20 ships participated in the drills.
The Chinese Defense Ministry stated that the exercises were focused on enhancing maritime cooperation and ensuring peace and stability in the region. Iran and Russia also echoed similar sentiments in their statements.
China, Russia, and Iran have all sent their naval vessels to participate in the exercises. China sent a guided-missile destroyer and guided-missile frigate, while Russia dispatched the cruiser Varyag from its Pacific Fleet. Iran contributed a variety of vessels, such as frigates and fast-attack boats, as reported by state-run media.
The exercises, now in their sixth iteration since 2018, are scheduled to continue until Friday, according to Russian state news agency TASS.
Iran's official Islamic Republic News Agency pointed out that the joint military exercises coincide with a period of heightened turmoil in the region. The agency mentioned the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, which has the potential to escalate into a larger regional war.
The Gaza conflict has already extended to international waters in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have launched missiles and drones at international military and commercial ships.
Iranian Rear Adm. Amrollah Nozari mentioned that the exercises encompass 17,000 square kilometers (6,500 square miles) of sea in a region of significant global importance.
Nozari, as reported by Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency, mentioned that this area consists of three out of the world’s five important straits. These straits are situated in the northern Indian Ocean region, playing a significant role as a vital center for global energy and trade traffic.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks during a news conference on the sidelines of the National People's Congress on March 7, 2024 in Beijing.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks during a news conference on the sidelines of the National People's Congress on March 7, 2024 in Beijing.
Kevin Frayer/Getty Images
Related article
China slams ‘unfathomable absurdities’ of US trade controls as it hails Russia ties
The Iranian report mentioned that their navy is adding new vessels to this year's exercises, designed for longer missions at sea and equipped with advanced weapons developed within the country. However, the report did not specify the exact type of weaponry being used.
Iran is a strong supporter of Hamas in Gaza and the Houthi rebels. It is believed that many of the weapons used by these groups are supplied by Tehran.
Iranian munitions, such as the Shahed aerial drones, have now become a significant addition to Russia's weapons in the conflict in Ukraine.
At the same time, the relationship between China and Russia has grown stronger after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This has raised suspicions in the West, particularly regarding Beijing's role as Moscow's primary economic supporter.
Editor's P/S:
The joint military exercises in the Gulf of Oman underscore the growing strategic alignment between China, Russia, and Iran. These nations are showcasing their military capabilities and strengthening their cooperation in a region of heightened geopolitical tensions. The exercises coincide with the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and the involvement of Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, raising concerns about a potential escalation in regional hostilities.
The participation of Iran, a key supporter of Hamas and the Houthis, highlights its role as a regional power broker. Iran's addition of new, advanced naval vessels to the exercises demonstrates its commitment to enhancing its maritime capabilities and projecting its influence. Meanwhile, China and Russia's involvement signals their growing presence in the Middle East and their willingness to challenge Western dominance in the region. These exercises serve as a reminder of the evolving global power dynamics and the need for diplomatic efforts to address regional security challenges.
