‘Iran Navy sailing in backyard of arrogant powers’

Iran’s Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari says the Islamic Republic naval forces have now established a presence in the backyard of arrogant powers, the Mediterranean Sea.

“In the past, Iran’s Navy only carried out its missions within the perimeters of the Persian Gulf waters, but has now established a presence in the backyard of arrogant powers,” IRNA quoted Sayyari on Friday.

The Iranian commander went to describe Iran’s presence in international waters as an indication of the Islamic Republic’s “prowess and solidity” in the international arena.

“Given its irrefutable prowess, no one can make decisions for the Islamic Republic now,” Sayyari added.

Iran’s Navy has increased its presence in international waters since last year, deploying vessels in the Indian Ocean and sending two ships to the Mediterranean Sea for the first time in February 2011 via the Suez Canal.

In addition, in line with international efforts to combat piracy, the Iranian Navy has been conducting anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden since November 2008 to safeguard vessels involved in maritime trade, and especially ships and oil tankers owned or leased by Iran.