China, Russia, and Iran are set to embark on joint naval exercises this week near the Gulf of Oman, in a move that underscores growing military cooperation among the three nations. The exercises, named “Security Bond-2024,” are scheduled to run from Monday to Friday, to bolster maritime cooperation and enhance regional maritime security.
This is not the first time the three countries have conducted joint naval drills in the area. Similar exercises were held last year, reflecting an ongoing collaboration aimed at strengthening security ties and strategic partnerships.
According to statements from the participating countries, naval representatives from Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Oman, India, and South Africa will also observe the drills.
The naval exercises come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, fueled by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and attacks on vessels in the Red Sea by Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The Houthi leader recently revealed that since October 19 last year, rebels have launched numerous missiles and drones targeting ships, resulting in disruptions to international trade.
As the Voice of America reported: “the Houthi leader has previously pledged that attacks will further escalate if what he calls “the barbaric and brutal aggression against Gaza does not stop.”
Several U.S. officials have previously voiced apprehension regarding the increasing military collaboration among the trio. In a statement last year, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley cautioned that the alliance of China, Russia, and Iran would pose challenges “for an extended period” for the United States.
