Officials have confirmed that China, Iran, and Russia have commenced a joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Oman, a strategically significant waterway located near the entrance of the Persian Gulf.

Chinese state television aired footage depicting the ongoing drill, named "Marine Security Belt 2024," while the Russian navy released a video showcasing the joint naval exercise.

China dispatched the guided missile destroyer Urumqi and the guided missile frigate Linyi to participate in the exercise. Russia's contingent is under the command of the Varyag, a Slava-class cruiser.

The exercise features participation from over 20 ships, including support vessels and combat boats, from China, Iran, and Russia. Additionally, naval helicopters are also actively involved in the joint drill.

A report by Iranian state television cited the spokesperson for the drill, Adm. Mostafa Tajaddini, who stated that the exercise will cover an area spanning 17,000 square kilometers (6,600 square miles) of water.

Tajaddini further emphasised that the joint drill, the fourth conducted by the three nations since 2019, aims to enhance trade, combat piracy and terrorism, facilitate humanitarian efforts, and promote the exchange of information in rescue operations, among other objectives.

In response to escalating regional tensions with the United States, Iran has intensified its military collaboration with Beijing and Moscow. This includes the provision of military drones to Russia, which are currently being deployed in Moscow's conflict with Ukraine.

Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan, and South Africa are acting as observers during the drill.

Since 2019, the Gulf of Oman has witnessed a string of attacks that the U.S. has attributed to Iran, along with instances of ship seizures by Tehran. These incidents have occurred following the breakdown of the nuclear deal between Iran and world powers. Notably, a significant portion of global oil trade transits through the narrow Strait of Hormuz, located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf.

Image source: AP News