Iran displays naval power, slams external threats during BRICS Plus drills

Iran has reaffirmed its maritime capabilities and regional influence through its participation in the BRICS Plus joint naval drills, known as “Will for Peace 2026,” which kicked off on Saturday off the coast of South Africa.

The exercise, part of a broader strategic cooperation among BRICS countries and their partners, includes Iran alongside Russia, China, South Africa, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Brazil, Egypt, and the UAE.

It underscores the Islamic Republic’s growing naval reach and its commitment to strengthening military partnerships with key global players.

As part of the naval exercise, the Islamic Republic of Iran Navy (IRIN) deployed its Shahid Naqdi destroyer, the Makran helicopter carrier, and the Shahid Mahdavi frigate, among other assets.

The drills, conducted with over 20 naval and aerial units from the participating countries, included live-fire exercises, focusing on semi-heavy weapons to test the operational readiness of the forces.

The South African authorities described the exercise as part of the BRICS Plus initiative, aiming to bolster maritime security and ensure the free flow of international trade.

For Iran, the drill represents not only a demonstration of its naval prowess but also a crucial moment to showcase the strength and unity it draws from its domestic support.

In a speech on Thursday, Rear Admiral Shahram Irani, the commander of the Iranian Navy, stated, “The Islamic Republic of Iran draws its real strength from its people, and this power is visible on the global stage.”

Admiral Irani noted that external forces have consistently underestimated the resolve of the Iranian people.

"The enemies of Iran have underestimated the greatness of our people and their loyalty to the system. Once again, the American ‘yellow pig’ is wrong about the people of Iran," he said.

The remarks also included sharp criticism of the West’s approach to Iran’s security and sovereignty.

"The global arrogance believes that by assassinating our military leaders and nuclear scientists, they can disrupt the course of our revolution. In reality, these actions only strengthen us," Irani added, referencing the US and its allies’ efforts to weaken Iran through targeted killings and economic pressure.

Iran's participation in the BRICS Plus naval exercise also serves to affirm its centuries-old naval tradition.

“Our maritime power dates back 2,500 years, and today, Iranian destroyers are capable of maneuvering in all global waters, ensuring the security of the seas in our region,” Admiral Irani proudly stated, referring to Iran’s historical naval dominance in the Persian Gulf and beyond.

The ongoing drills are also a response to external threats. Irani expressed concern over attempts by the West to destabilize Iran internally, specifically through the manipulation of protests and social unrest.

“The last hope of the enemies is to exploit the emotions of the youth, to create instability within our borders,” he noted, warning against foreign interference in Iran’s domestic affairs.

Irani also expressed gratitude and pride for Iran’s military forces.

“The respect and recognition Iranian naval forces receive worldwide come from the blood of martyrs, the greatness of our people, and the courage of our compatriots who have stood firm against global arrogance throughout this revolution,” he said.  

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