The drills occurred following joint US-Israeli missile attacks on Iranian nuclear sites earlier in the year.
Iran recently conducted extensive naval and missile exercises in the Sea of Oman, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Persian Gulf, according to Iranian media sources. These drills occurred a few months after reported US-Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during a 12-day period in June.
The two-day exercises, which began on Thursday, included launches of ballistic and cruise missiles, drone attacks on mock targets, and air defense maneuvers, state media reported.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy launched Qadr-110, Qadr-380, Qadir, and 303 missiles from inland locations. Local media reported that the missiles accurately hit their targets in the Gulf of Oman. Drones also reportedly carried out simultaneous attacks on simulated enemy bases as part of the exercises.
According to Press TV, the drill aimed to send a message of “peace and friendship to neighboring countries,” while also serving as a warning that “any miscalculation by enemies will face a decisive response.”
Naval units reportedly practiced defending against aerial attacks and trained to counter electronic warfare. Reports also noted the use of ship-based air defense systems during the exercises.
These war games follow a period of increased tensions in the region. In June, the US and Israel allegedly conducted coordinated airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, claiming the attacks were intended to prevent Iran from further developing its nuclear program. Tehran has consistently denied pursuing nuclear weapons and has denounced the strikes as unjustified violations of its sovereignty.
Iranian officials have stated that the damaged facilities will be rebuilt and will continue uranium enrichment activities. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that the strikes did not stop Iran’s enrichment capabilities, and President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed that the sites will be restored.
This week, Iran also hosted a counter-terrorism exercise in East Azerbaijan province with participants from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, including China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and several Central Asian nations. Iranian officials stated that these activities highlight Iran’s focus on both domestic and international security cooperation.
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