Iran’s forces hold joint naval drills with regional allies

The exercises mark one of the largest joint naval displays involving Iranian forces and allied groups in recent years

TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) – Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy conducted a large-scale joint naval exercise with forces from Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen, demonstrating military coordination among regional allies in support of Palestinians in Gaza. 

The drills, seen as a strategic message to Israel, took place across key maritime zones, including the Persian Gulf, the Makran coast, and the Caspian Sea, according to IRNA.  

The exercises featured a significant display of naval assets, including Iran’s Shahid Baqeri UAV carrier, the Shahid Rais Ali Delvari frigate, and a fleet of IRGC speedboats, alongside civilian maritime units. 

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, stated that approximately 3,000 vessels—both heavy warships and light attack boats—participated in the maneuvers.  

“Our message is clear: We will not confine our resistance to land. The child-killing Zionists must know that we are fully prepared at sea, and there will be no escape for them,” Tangsiri declared during the drills.  

The multinational exercises underscored deepening military cooperation among Iran and its regional partners, particularly amid heightened tensions over the war in Gaza. 

The timing of the drills aligned with Iran’s observance of International Quds Day, an annual event expressing solidarity with the Palestinian cause.  

Analysts view the maneuvers as both a show of force and a strategic signal to Israel and its allies, reinforcing Iran’s role as a key player in regional security dynamics. 

The participation of Iraqi, Lebanese, and Yemeni forces further highlights the expanding network of Iran-aligned militias capable of coordinated naval operations.  

No direct confrontations were reported during the drills, which appeared focused on tactical coordination and deterrence messaging.