Chabahar: The naval forces of Iran, Russia, and China are conducting military maneuvers off the coast of southwestern Iran in order to “strengthen regional security,” Moscow and the official Iranian agency reported on Sunday. These countries have conducted joint maneuvers in the region in recent years out of their common desire to confront what they describe as “American hegemony.”

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Russian Defense Ministry stated on Sunday that the “starting ceremony” of the maneuvers, called “Maritime Security Belt 2025,” took place in the port of Chabahar, located in southeastern Iran and overlooking the Sea of Oman. The ministry added that the ceremony occurred “on the eve of the start” of the maneuvers, which are set to last “several days.”

The Iranian official IRNA agency reported that “Monday is the start date for these maneuvers,” while Tasnim reported that they will begin on Tuesday. Tasnim indicated that “combat and support ships for the Chinese and Russian naval forces, ships of the Iranian army, and the Revolutionary Guards Navy” will participate in the maneuvers.

The maneuvers are being held “in the northern region of the Indian Ocean” and aim to “enhance security in the region and expand multilateral cooperation among participating countries,” according to the agency.