Israel blocks Iran’s participation in international naval exercises

Israel, in collaboration with the United States, successfully prevented the Iranian navy from participating in the international naval exercises Komodo-2025, held in Bali, Indonesia, at the end of February.

The exercises, organized by the Indonesian Navy from February 16 to 22, were a significant multinational event, involving fleets from 56 countries, including the US, UK, South Korea, EU nations, China, and Russia, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

However, Israel received intelligence shortly before the event that Iran had been invited to participate and had responded positively.

Upon receiving this information, Israel, working closely with the US, put significant diplomatic pressure on Indonesia to cancel Iran's involvement. The United States made it clear to Indonesian authorities that it would withdraw from the exercises if Iran was allowed to take part.

The pressure from Israel and the US led to a reversal of Iran’s invitation, preventing its participation in the high-profile event. The diplomatic maneuver highlights ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, particularly regarding military cooperation and regional security.

The exercise included a six-day harbor phase, featuring international military workshops focused on infrastructure repairs, emergency medical response, and community outreach activities, along with cultural exchanges. This was followed by a sea phase, where participating ships and aircraft engaged in coordinated maneuvers and search-and-rescue training.

Komodo 2025 is the fifth iteration of the exercise, which was first held in 2014.

Dewey operates under Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the US Navy’s largest forward-deployed destroyer squadron and US 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.

US 7th Fleet is the US Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

By Vafa Guliyeva