Russia, China, and Iran will conduct the ‘Security Belt-2025’ naval exercises in March near Chabahar, Iran. The maneuvers will focus on enhancing military cooperation and involve a Chinese fleet. Observers from multiple nations will monitor the drills, which follow increased tensions between Iran and the U.S. amid discussions on nuclear agreements and sanctions.
Russia, China, and Iran are set to conduct the ‘Security Belt-2025’ naval exercises in March, near Chabahar, Iran, as reported by the Chinese defense ministry. The maneuvers will involve a Chinese fleet consisting of a destroyer and supply ship and will focus on maritime attack drills, damage control, and joint search and rescue operations. The objective is to enhance mutual military trust and develop practical cooperation among the participating naval forces.
A report from Iranian state media indicates the presence of observers from multiple countries, including Azerbaijan, South Africa, Oman, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Qatar, Iraq, the UAE, and Sri Lanka, during the exercises. This represents the seventh iteration of the joint exercises involving Iran, Russia, and China, according to the Iranian military’s media office. The drills will also see participation from Iranian Navy vessels and the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC).
In January, an agreement was signed between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, aimed at enhancing collaboration in trade and military sectors. Tensions between Iran and the U.S. have escalated following former President Donald Trump’s push for a nuclear deal that Iran criticized, labeling U.S. actions as bullying.
Following Trump’s recent correspondence with Iranian leaders regarding nuclear negotiations, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei asserted that negotiations aim merely to impose terms and dominate. He dismissed U.S. negotiations as not designed to resolve issues but to expand control. Khamenei stated that any stance taken by the U.S. would continue to face resistance unless true partnerships were fostered.
Recent U.S. sanctions target Iran’s oil sector, undermining its primary income source. Throughout President Biden’s administration, these penalties have been consistently applied to reinforce existing sanctions against Iran’s economy. Furthermore, it was reported that Russia expressed readiness to mediate upcoming U.S.-Iran nuclear discussions, hinting at potential shifts in relations against the backdrop of the conflict in Ukraine.
The upcoming joint naval exercises between Russia, China, and Iran in March signify a significant collaboration among these nations, aimed at enhancing military capabilities and cooperation. Amidst ongoing tensions with the U.S., the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, particularly in light of renewed dialogues regarding nuclear agreements. The involvement of various observers from different countries underscores the broader international implications of these military maneuvers. The changing dynamics reflect the complexities of regional allegiances and military strategies in the face of emerging global challenges.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
