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Iran says powers' presence in region "unnecessary"

Xinhua, February 25, 2015 Adjust font size:

The military presence of non-regional powers in the region is "unnecessary," Iran's Majlis (parliament) Speaker Ali Larijani said on the sidelines of Iran's naval drill on Wednesday.

"Iran is in possession of smart and mighty (naval) forces in the Persian Gulf as well as in the Sea of Oman and can maintain the security of the region in collaboration with other regional states," Larijani was quoted as saying by the Iranian Students' News Agency.

The powers should know that an increase in number of naval fleets in Iran's southern waters "cannot change the situation in the region," he said.

Neighboring countries can take advantage of Iran's technological achievements to secure the stability of the region, he said, adding that if Iran makes advancements militarily, it will benefit the neighboring states.

The Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday started a massive naval drill, Codenamed "Great Prophet 9," in the strategic waterway of Hormuz Strait.

The military exercise was broadcast live on the state-run IRIB TV.

The exercise, with the message of "might and durable security," is aimed at enhancing the preparedness and defense capabilities of the country, the IRIB said.

The IRGC's missile bases onshore were shown launching massive strikes against the positions of the mock enemy and its naval bases. Also, the IRGC's speed boats laid mines in the sea to prevent the advance of enemy marine forces. Endit