Iran has launched its first military exercise since the end of its 12-day war with Israel, state television reported on Thursday. The drill, named “Sustainable Power 1404,” features naval vessels launching cruise missiles at sea targets in the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean.
While military drills are routine in the Islamic Republic, this exercise carries added significance as Iran seeks to project strength following a conflict that saw Israel strike air defense systems, nuclear facilities, and other sites.
Missiles and Drones Deployed in Gulf of Oman
According to state TV, Iranian naval vessels will fire cruise missiles and deploy drones for surveillance over open waters. However, no footage from the exercise has been released yet.
Iran’s navy, which has around 18,000 personnel, avoided major attacks during the June conflict with Israel. The force operates mainly from the port city of Bandar Abbas, patrolling the Gulf of Oman, the Indian Ocean, and the Caspian Sea, while the Revolutionary Guard Navy controls the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran Warns of Readiness Against Future Attacks
Since the conflict ended, Tehran has repeatedly emphasized its readiness to counter any future Israeli aggression.
Defense Minister Brig Gen Aziz Nasirzadeh stated that Iran has equipped its forces with new missiles, saying:
“In response to any potential enemy adventurism, our forces are prepared to use these new missiles effectively.”
Tensions Over Nuclear Program and IAEA Dispute
Meanwhile, Iran has suspended its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which monitors its nuclear activities. Tehran continues to enrich uranium to near weapons-grade levels, raising international concerns.
France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have warned Iran that if it fails to provide a “satisfactory solution” to the IAEA dispute by August 31, they will trigger a “snapback” of United Nations sanctions previously lifted under the 2015 nuclear deal.
Experts warn that renewed UN sanctions could further cripple Iran’s struggling economy, already hit hard by US sanctions since 2018.
