Iran Conducts Annual Air Force Drill as US Deploys Fighter Planes to the Region
Iran has commenced its annual air force drill, known as Fadaeian Velyat-11 or Devotees of the Supreme Leader-11, in the central part of the country. The exercise involves the participation of 11 Iranian air force bases, with the Bandar Abbas air base at the strategic Strait of Hormuz being actively involved. The drill aims to assess the combat readiness of Iran’s forces and showcase the nation’s military capabilities. More than 90 fighter planes, bombers, and drones are taking part in the exercise.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which 20% of global crude oil passes, has been a focal point of tensions between Iran and the United States. In response to Iranian attempts to seize commercial vessels in the region, the US has dispatched additional fighter jets and a warship to the area. The Pentagon has announced that the USS Thomas Hudner, a destroyer, along with several F-35 fighter jets, will be deployed to the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman to enhance security. The USS McFaul, a guided-missile destroyer, has already deescalated tense situations by intervening in previous instances of Iranian naval aggression.
Recent incidents involving Iran have further strained relations, including the attempted seizure of two oil tankers, the TRF Moss and the Richmond Voyager. Prior to these incidents, Iran had already seized five commercial vessels and harassed numerous others over the past two years. The US accuses Iran of using the seized ships as bargaining chips, whereas Iran claims that they took action only after collisions with local vessels had occurred and water pollution became a concern.
Tensions between Iran and the US escalated following the unilateral withdrawal of the US from the 2015 nuclear agreement and the subsequent reimposition of economic sanctions by the Trump administration. In response, Iran has intensified its nuclear activities and provided drones to Russia for their conflict with Ukraine. These actions have triggered concerns among the international community regarding the security situation in the region.
The ongoing air force drill in Iran aims to highlight the nation’s commitment to sustainable security, regional ties, peaceful coexistence, and the defense of its air borders. With the US reinforcing its military presence in the Persian Gulf area, the situation remains volatile. It is essential for all parties involved to continue engaging in constructive dialogue to deescalate tensions and work towards a peaceful resolution that ensures stability in the region.
