Baghdad: The Naval Forces Command conducted a security exercise in Iraqi territorial waters to pursue piracy and outlaws.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry of Defense stated in a statement that the exercise was carried out following directives from Vice Admiral Mazen Abdul Wahid Kabyan, Commander of the Naval Forces. The initiative aims to ensure the safety of Iraqi waters, as well as the oil and commercial ports, which are critical to the Iraqi economy. The exercise was overseen by the Director of Naval Operations.

The Naval Forces Command, represented by the Umm Qasr Naval Base Command and the Naval Intelligence Directorate, employed patrol boats and fast attack craft, known as defenders, during the exercise. The operations included inspecting fishing boats, pursuing outlaws, and securing Iraqi waters from external threats and maritime piracy. Additionally, efforts were made to protect against security breaches and combat smuggling activities.