TEHRAN - The commander of the Iranian Navy on Monday asserted the Persian Gulf's status as the most secure maritime region worldwide.

In remarks on National Persian Gulf Day celebrations, Rear Admiral Shahram Irani reflected on the waterway’s historical significance as a symbol of Iran's strength.

He also affirmed escort services for Iranian vessels in international waters to safeguard the welfare of sailors and traders during various activities.

The strategic Persian Gulf waterway, abundant in natural resources such as vast petroleum reserves, has long captured the attention of nations and governments. Iran has designated April 29 as National Day of the Persian Gulf.

He recounted how Iran's strategic navy swiftly established naval supremacy at the onset of the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq War, neutralizing the Saddam Hussein navy within a mere 67 days.

Irani emphasized the ascension of the Islamic Republic system and armed forces since the Iran-Iraq War, with the recent triumph signaling the imminent demise of the Zionist regime.

The rear admiral was referring to the launch of 300 drones and missiles at Israel on April 13 following the regime’s April 1 air raid on the Iranian diplomatic premise in Damascus in which seven Iranian military advisors were killed. 

Regarding present-day security in the Persian Gulf, Irani noted that while it remains the safest maritime zone globally, ship escorts are predominant in strategic areas like the Gulf of Aden and the Atlantic Ocean to counter threats of maritime terrorism. 

Iran’s Navy has in recent years increased its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers.

On Friday, Irani reiterated the government's plan to establish a "permanent presence" for the Iranian Navy in the South Pole.

Irani emphasized that the main goal of establishing a base at the South Pole is to conduct scientific research, with Iran's scientific community and intellectuals leading these endeavors.

Additionally, the admiral noted that in other countries with bases in the South Pole, military presence mainly plays a supportive role.