Iran initiates naval exercises as Middle East tensions escalate

The Iranian Navy launched a series of exercises in Gilan province, near the Caspian Sea city of Astara.

Hamid Mousavi, the deputy head of Astara province, stated that the exercises aim to enhance the preparedness of the naval defence forces, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

He reassured residents not to be alarmed by the sounds of explosions that would accompany the drills.

This marks the second known military exercise in Iran within three days. Just last Sunday, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps initiated manoeuvres in Kermanshah province, close to the Iraqi border.

These military activities come at a time of heightened tension in the Middle East, following the assassination of Hamas politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Fuad Shukr, a senior advisor to Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, in Beirut. Both Iran and Hezbollah have vowed retaliation for these killings.

The threats have prompted a flurry of diplomacy to avoid an all-out war in the region.

Iran has dismissed Western appeals for restraint, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani asserting that Tehran does not require permission to defend its national security and sovereignty. Kanaan criticized the calls as lacking political logic and violating international laws and principles.

His remarks followed a joint statement from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, urging Iran to "refrain from actions that could further escalate regional tensions." The European nations warned that Iran and its allies would be held accountable for any actions jeopardizing peace and stability.