Iranian Navy Commander Arrives in South Africa

Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa, in a bid to take part in the 3rd Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.

The South African Navy is hosting the event at the Cape Town International Convention Center on April 10-13.

Commanders from 33 Indian Ocean littoral states will participate in the four day meeting titled “Regional Maritime Security Initiatives aimed at reducing Modern Maritime Security Threats”.

Iran’s naval power has even been acknowledged by foes. In a Sep. 11, 2008 report, the Washington Institute for the Near East Policy also said that in the two decades since the Iraqi imposed war on Iran, the Islamic Republic has excelled in naval capabilities and is able to wage unique asymmetric warfare against larger naval forces.

According to the report, Iran’s Navy has been transformed into a highly motivated, well-equipped, and well-financed force and is effectively in control of the world’s oil lifeline, the Strait of Hormuz.