TEHRAN, Iran

Iran, Russia, and Oman have launched joint naval exercises in the Indian Ocean, with Saudi Arabia, India, Thailand, Pakistan, Qatar, and Bangladesh participating as observers.

Iranian state-run television reported Saturday that the country was hosting the IMEX 2024 drills, aiming to “enhance regional collective security and promote multilateral cooperation.”

The exercises include active participation from Russia and Oman alongside Iran, while Saudi Arabia, India, Thailand, Pakistan, Qatar, and Bangladesh are involved in an observer capacity.

These drills come as part of ongoing efforts by the participating nations to strengthen military ties and ensure maritime security in a strategic region of the world.

* Writing by Ikram Kouachi