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IRGC warns Saudi Navy to keep off Iran waters

Wednesday, 05 October 2016 12:19 PM [ Last Update: Thursday, 06 October 2016 6:52 AM ]

This file photo shows Royal Saudi Navy frigate Al Dammam (816).

The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has issued a stern warning to all military vessels partaking in Saudi Arabia's ongoing wargames in the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the Strait of Hormuz, noting that any act of transgression into Iran's territorial waters shall be met with an immediate and befitting response.

A strongly-worded statement, addressed to all Saudi and non-Saudi naval vessels that are part of the maneuvers, suggested that the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps views the ongoing wargames as an evident attempt to foment tensions and compromise sustainable security in the Persian Gulf.

The IRGC statement advised all military vessels participating in the maneuvers against crossing into the country's waters, warning them not to approach Iran's territorial waters and not to even cruise in international waters that are in the vicinity of Iran’s territorial waters, since any such attempt is in no way regarded as an instance of "innocent passage."

The Islamic Republic of Iran's Navy and the IRGC's Naval Force are in full combat readiness to safeguard sustainable security in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Sea of Oman and shall therefore respond promptly and proportionately to any potential acts to undermine peace and security in these waters, added the statement.

Saudi Arabia's exercises involve units of the Royal Saudi Navy Forces of Eastern Fleet, including warships, naval aircraft and special security naval units.

Royal Saudi Navy Commander Abdullah al-Sultan said the drills were part of a series of exercises seeking to raise combat readiness, gain the necessary skills and improve ability to perform essential services.

Back in August, Iranian Defense Minister Hossein Dehqan stated that the Islamic Republic’s naval forces were monitoring all movements in the Persian Gulf and would confront any vessels intruding into the country's territorial waters.

"If any foreign vessel enters our waters, we will give them a warning. If it is an act of aggression, we will confront them," Dehqan said.

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