Saudi Arabia has proposed joint naval exercises with Iran in the Red Sea, a bold move that has caught global attention as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East. This comes amid growing speculation about Israel’s potential retaliation against Iran.
On Wednesday, Iranian Navy Commander Shahram Irani confirmed the proposal, stating, “Saudi Arabia has requested joint exercises with Iran,” and noted that both nations have extended invitations for naval port visits. Irani added that the exercises might include participation from other countries, with coordination efforts already in progress.
In response, Saudi Defense Ministry spokesman Turki Al-Malki told AFP that the Saudi and Iranian navies had recently completed joint drills with other nations in the Gulf of Oman. However, he clarified that “no additional exercises are being conducted during this period.” Last week, Iranian state media reported joint naval drills involving Russia and Oman near the Gulf of Oman, with observers from countries including Saudi Arabia, India, and Pakistan.
Saudi Arabia and Iran, long-standing rivals representing Sunni and Shia Islam, respectively, cut diplomatic ties in 2016. However, they restored relations in March of last year following mediation by China.
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