Iran strongly fighting maritime terrorism

Iran’s Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari says the Islamic Republic’s naval forces are strongly fighting maritime terrorism in high seas.

According to Press TV, Sayyari said on Sunday Iran’s naval forces have been protecting routes used by Iranian vessels over recent years, confronting maritime terrorism and defending the Islamic Republic’s economic interests.

He added that the naval forces have successfully fought pirates and escorted 2,600 merchant ships and oil tankers in sensitive regions such as Gulf of Aden, Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea.

The commander noted the 34th flotilla of the Iranian Navy, which comprises the Bushehr logistic vessel and Alborz destroyer, is currently conducting its mission in the high seas.

The 34th flotilla left Iran’s southern port city of Bandar Abbas for the Gulf of Aden and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait on April 8.

Sayyari further said Iran’s Navy plans to enhance the strategic power of the naval forces, adding “We will not hesitate to protect the country’s interests and ensure security more strongly than before.”