TEHRAN – The spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has warned that any endeavor to disrupt the interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran on a global scale will be met with a decisive response.

“The nation's robust naval force, administered by the Army, stands vigilant to ensure that actions challenging the country's national interests are swiftly addressed,” Nasser Kanaani stated during a conference on the achievements of the 86th naval flotilla of the Iranian Army at the Kowsar Conferences Center on Sunday.

He highlighted the strategic importance of Iran's maritime strength in fostering neighbor-centric, balanced, and dynamic diplomatic relations.

Kanaani delved into the historical significance of the 86th naval flotilla's unique mission, circumnavigating the globe, traversing the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans, and marking a historic achievement for Iran's naval forces. This mission, featuring the Dena destroyer and Makran forward base ship, gained recognition for its influential presence in international waters, as described by the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. He stated, “The successful mission of the 86th naval flotilla not only demonstrated Iran's commitment to peace, sending friendly messages to nations along the route, but also asserted its ability to contribute to international peace and security.”

Beyond securing Iran's maritime borders, Kanaani applauded the naval forces for their global commitment to improving defense capabilities. “From the Gulf of Aden to the Caribbean Sea, extending beyond the Persian Gulf, the Oman Sea, and the Caspian Sea, Iran showcased its readiness to protect national interests on a global scale,” he noted.

Kanaani reinforced the message that Iran stands firm against any challenges worldwide, emphasizing the resolve of the powerful naval force and other branches of the Armed Forces. 

Kanaani concluded by emphasizing the interconnectedness of Iran's military and diplomatic prowess. He portrayed Iran's naval power as a cornerstone for balanced and dynamic government diplomacy, concurrently serving as a deterrent against adversaries. Kanaani expressed satisfaction in laying the groundwork for fostering friendly relations in the maritime domain.

In a final declaration, Kanaani reiterated the diplomatic apparatus's readiness to facilitate and support further collaborations in defense, enhancing foreign interactions, and contributing to global peace, security, and the defense of independent governments worldwide.

Iran's 86th flotilla, featuring the domestically manufactured Dena Destroyer and Makran forward base ship, returned on May 17, 2023 after completing the inaugural round-the-world mission. 

Departing from Bandar Abbas on September 20, 2022, the flotilla concluded its 236-day journey by anchoring at Oman's Salalah harbor. Covering a total distance of 63,000 kilometers, the fleet crossed the equator four times during its remarkable expedition.

Amid tensions heightened by foreign intervention in the region, the Islamic Republic is increasing its naval presence in the high seas.

Iran’s Navy has achieved self-sufficiency in manufacturing surface and sub-surface vessels in recent years. It has also increased its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers.