Iran sends four navy vessels to UAE for first time

Iran has dispatched four vessels from its IRGC and army navies to the UAE for a meeting with Emirati naval forces.

"We have repeatedly said that regional countries can ensure the region's security and that there is no need for foreign presence," IRGC navy chief Alireza Tangsiri was quoted as saying by state media.

In addition to Persian Gulf forces, coalition forces including the US, Iran's archenemy, have a strong presence around the Strait of Hormuz.

The UAE and Iran repaired diplomatic ties in 2022, abou six years after Abu Dhabi cut diplomatic relations in allegiance with Saudi Arabia after the 2016 looting of the Saudi embassy in Tehran. Saudi followed one year later.

The IRGC navy chief announced there will be ongoing drills with other countries neighboring Iran such as Oman, which was one of the mediators involved in the repairing of ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

"We have had engagements with Oman's navy in this regard and have participated in joint drills with Oman," he said.

A multi-purpose drone carrier will also be integrated into the IRGC navy, he said.