Iran, Russia and China to participate in naval drill in Indian Ocean

Iran, Russia, and China are set to conduct a large-scale joint naval exercise in the northern Indian Ocean, focusing on maritime security operations and strategic military coordination.

The drill, named Security Belt-2025, will take place in early and mid-March near Iran’s southeastern Chabahar Port, involving various branches of the three nations' naval forces.  

The Chinese Defense Ministry announced the exercise on Sunday via its official Weibo account, detailing that the drill will include multiple training operations such as maritime target strikes, VBSS (visit, board, search, and seizure), damage control, and joint search and rescue missions.  

According to the ministry, the primary goal of Security Belt-2025 is to enhance military trust and strengthen practical cooperation between the participating forces. China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy is set to deploy a destroyer and a replenishment ship for the exercise.  

A Chinese military analyst emphasized that the drill will contribute to safeguarding security in a strategically critical region, particularly one that serves as a key transit route for global energy shipments.  

Security Belt-2025 marks the fifth joint naval exercise between Iran, China, and Russia since 2019.

Over the past few years, the three nations have conducted multiple military drills to reinforce regional maritime stability and safeguard international trade routes.  

In addition to countering piracy and maritime terrorism, these exercises have facilitated intelligence sharing on naval rescue operations and the exchange of tactical and operational expertise.  

In March 2024, the Iranian Navy, along with Chinese and Russian naval and airborne units, participated in the Maritime Security Belt-2024 drills.

Observers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan, and South Africa attended the exercises, reflecting the growing interest in multilateral maritime cooperation.  

The joint maneuvers were designed to strengthen maritime security, bolster international trade protection, combat piracy, and enhance operational coordination among naval forces.

The drills also served as a demonstration of the participants' collective commitment to global peace and stability at sea.  

As part of the upcoming exercises, the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) will deploy two advanced vessels: the Shahid Nazeri and the Shahid Sayyad Shirazi.  

Commissioned into the IRGC Navy in September 2016, the Shahid Nazeri is a high-speed patrol and reconnaissance vessel designed for extended operational reach. With a length of 55 meters, a width of 14 meters, and a height of 13 meters, the vessel significantly enhances the IRGCN’s maritime capabilities, extending its operational range up to 10,000 kilometers.  

The Shahid Nazeri features a specialized twin-hull (SWATH – Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) design, providing enhanced stability in high-speed operations and rough seas. Its design ensures that it remains steady even at high speeds, reducing the risk of capsizing.  

Equipped with a helicopter landing pad, the vessel can conduct surveillance and reconnaissance missions across various maritime zones, making it a valuable asset for intelligence gathering and patrol operations.  

The Shahid Sayyad Shirazi is a newly commissioned stealth warship from the Shahid Soleimani class, officially joining the IRGC Navy in February 2024. This catamaran-style ocean-going vessel is designed for high-speed operations, with a maximum speed of 45 knots.  

Armed with a wide array of offensive and defensive missile systems, the Shahid Sayyad Shirazi is equipped with vertical-launch Nawab air defense missiles and Sayyad cruise missiles with a strike range of 700 kilometers.  

With a length of 67 meters, a width of 20 meters, and a displacement of 600 tons, the vessel is powered by four engines, enabling long-distance operations. It has an operational range of 5,500 nautical miles and is capable of carrying three missile-launching fast attack boats along with an armed combat helicopter.  

 

Qatar calls for US-Iran agreement

According to media reports, Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani has emphasized the urgent need for a diplomatic agreement between the United States and Iran, reaffirming that Qatar would not support any military escalation in the region.

“There is no way that Qatar would support any kind of military step in that region. We will not give up until we see a diplomatic solution between the United States and Iran. This needs to reach an agreement,” Al-Thani said, as quoted by Al Jazeera.

His remarks came shortly after US President Donald Trump hinted on Friday at the possibility of a "peace agreement" with Iran.

In a televised interview with journalist Tucker Carlson, Al-Thani underscored regional concerns over potential military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, stressing that Iran is “our next-door neighbor, and we have to maintain good relations with all our neighbors... It is in the interest of the region to have a better relationship with Iran.”

He also highlighted "huge progress" in relations between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Iran in recent years. While acknowledging policy differences with Tehran, he asserted that these had not negatively impacted diplomatic ties with Gulf states.

Trump, speaking on Friday, stated that interesting days lay ahead in US-Iran relations as he sought either to negotiate a new nuclear deal with Tehran or consider "the other option," an apparent reference to military action.

In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi dismissed direct negotiations with Washington, stating that as long as the US policy of maximum pressure and threats continues, we will not enter into direct negotiations with the US.

Discussing Qatar's involvement in mediating the Gaza ceasefire, Al-Thani noted that Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani had consistently prioritized humanitarian efforts, stating, “If we are able to save a single life, it is worth everything.”

He acknowledged that Qatar had faced significant criticism throughout the 15-month conflict in Gaza.

“We’ve been under significant attacks for 15 months during this war on Gaza, something unbelievable, no one would handle such an attack,” he said.

Despite the challenges, he emphasized Qatar’s tireless efforts in brokering a ceasefire, stating that seeing celebrations in both Gaza and Israel upon announcing the deal had made the hardships worthwhile.

Al-Thani credited the successful agreement to joint efforts by Qatar, the US, and other partners, singling out US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff for playing a key role in pushing negotiations forward.

 

Princess Haifa presents credentials to Macron

Saudi Arabia's Ambassador to Spain Princess Haifa bint Abdulaziz Al-Muqrin handed over her credentials as a non-resident ambassador to the Principality of Andorra to French President and the Co-Prince of Andorra Emmanuel Macron in a ceremony held at the Elysee Palace in Paris, reports Saudi Gazette.

Andorra is a sovereign landlocked country on the Iberian Peninsula, in the eastern Pyrenees in Western Europe, bordered by France to the north and Spain to the south. Andorra is a parliamentary co-principality with the bishop of Urgell in Spain and the president of France as co-princes. It’s popular for its ski resorts and a tax-haven status that encourages duty-free shopping.

Princess Haifa, one of the most influential Saudi women figures, was appointed as the Kingdom's ambassador to Spain in January 2024. Earlier, she held the position of the Kingdom's permanent representative to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). She also worked at the United Nations Development Program for seven years.

Princess Haifa is an expert in international institutional work, and one of the women who represented Saudi Arabia in international forums abroad. She has won the King Abdulaziz Order of Excellence in recognition of her outstanding contributions.

What gives the US authority to impose sanctions on other countries?

It is believed that the United States has the legal authority to impose sanctions based on a combination of constitutional powers, legislative acts, executive orders, and national security considerations. Sanctions can be imposed for a range of reasons, from counterterrorism efforts to enforcing international law or responding to violations of human rights or international norms. However, the time has come to reject these power, which cause difficulties for the nations the US does not like.

Sanctions are often imposed for reasons related to US national security. This could include targeting foreign governments or groups that support terrorism, are involved in weapons proliferation, or engage in activities that harm US foreign policy objectives.

While US sanctions are often unilateral, they can also be part of multilateral efforts. The US may align its sanctions with those of international organizations, such as the United Nations or the European Union, especially when it comes to issues like nuclear proliferation, terrorism, and human rights violations. In this context, sanctions are seen as part of broader international diplomatic efforts.

The President has the authority to issue executive orders to implement sanctions without needing Congressional approval. These orders often cite national security concerns, international obligations, or the need to enforce specific laws (like the IEEPA) to restrict economic relations with certain countries or individuals.

 

Here's a breakdown of the key legal and institutional bases for US sanctions:

1. US Constitution

• Executive Powers (Article II): The President of the United States, as the head of the executive branch, has the authority to conduct foreign policy and engage in international relations. This includes the power to implement sanctions as a tool of diplomacy and national security.
• Congressional Powers (Article I): Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and declare war. This allows it to pass laws that authorize sanctions, and the executive branch often implements those laws.

2. Specific Legislation

Several US laws grant the authority to impose sanctions, including:

• International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) (1977): This law grants the President broad powers to regulate international trade and economic transactions in response to national emergencies. Under this act, the President can block financial transactions, freeze assets, and prohibit trade with foreign governments or entities that pose a threat to U.S. interests.
• Trading with the Enemy Act (1917): Initially passed during World War I, this law allows the President to regulate or prohibit trade with foreign nations deemed enemies during wartime or national emergencies.
• The USA PATRIOT Act (2001): This law expanded the President's powers to combat terrorism and the financing of terrorist activities, enabling sanctions targeting individuals and entities linked to terrorism.
• Magnitsky Act (2012): This law allows the U.S. government to impose sanctions on individuals involved in human rights violations and corruption, even if they are not from countries officially designated as threats to U.S. security.
• Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) (2017): This law specifically targets countries like Russia, Iran, and North Korea, providing a legal framework for imposing sanctions against foreign governments and individuals involved in activities that threaten U.S. security or foreign policy.

 

 

Shift in US allegiance from Kyiv to Moscow raises concerns

A pressing question is emerging: can Asian allies such as Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines still rely on Washington after Donald Trump's betrayal of Ukraine? The US administration’s shift in allegiance from Kyiv to Moscow has raised concerns.

There are growing fears that Trump's unorthodox approach to the Ukraine conflict could signal a broader, more isolationist US strategy. This shift suggests that no allies, whether in Europe or Asia, can count on Washington's support in the event of a major crisis. Both the Pentagon and Congress are increasingly influenced by voices advocating restraint, with a clear desire to keep America out of significant overseas conflicts.

In this uncertain geopolitical landscape, Asian allies will likely need to strengthen their strategic autonomy. Notably, even the Philippines has begun openly discussing the advantages of multi-alignment, with plans to host a summit bringing together like-minded states from Europe and Asia to explore closer cooperation among middle powers.

It is expected that US allies in both Asia and Europe will pursue a collective strategic approach, aimed at countering Trump's erratic policies while addressing the growing threats posed by Russia and China.

Muslim unity necessary to counter forced displacement of Palestinians

The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia have emphasized the urgent need for unity within the Muslim world to counter Israel’s efforts to forcibly displace Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, reports Tehran Times.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, on the sidelines of an extraordinary session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah on Friday. 

The two top diplomats reaffirmed the necessity for the Islamic world to remain focused on the Palestinian cause and resist attempts to erase Palestine through mass displacement.  

During their talks, Araghchi and Faisal bin Farhan also assessed the progress of Iran-Saudi relations and expressed their nations' commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and strategic ties in accordance with the vision of their respective leaders.  

Araghchi had arrived in Jeddah a day earlier to participate in the high-stakes OIC meeting, which was convened to address Israel’s military actions in Gaza and its broader campaign against Palestinians.  

A key topic of discussion was a recent proposal by US President Donald Trump, suggesting that Washington, could take control of Gaza and transform it into "Riviera of West Asia." The proposal was widely condemned by Arab and Islamic nations.  

On the sidelines of the OIC meeting, Araghchi also met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The two officials addressed the broader challenges facing the Muslim world, particularly Israel’s ongoing aggression in Gaza and the occupation of the West Bank.

Araghchi expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Syria, where militant groups such as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) have gained control. He warned that instability in Syria would only serve Israeli interests and provide a breeding ground for terrorist organizations.

Fidan echoed these concerns and reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to supporting Palestinian rights, emphasizing the collective responsibility of Islamic nations to resist Israeli expansionism.  

In addition to Saudi and Turkish officials, Araghchi held separate meetings with foreign ministers from Tunisia, Egypt, and Oman, discussing regional developments and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.  

During his meeting with Tunisian Foreign Minister Mohamed Ali Nafti, both sides underscored their shared stance in advocating for Palestinian self-determination and denouncing Israel’s apartheid policies. They called for collective action among Islamic nations to prevent further displacement of Palestinians and to hold Israel accountable for its war crimes.  

Similarly, in discussions with Oman’s Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi, both diplomats highlighted the strong ties between Tehran and Muscat. Busaidi reiterated Oman’s commitment to the Palestinian cause and emphasized the need for regional cooperation to support Palestinian sovereignty. Araghchi affirmed Iran’s willingness to expand its partnership with Oman across various sectors.  

In his talks with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, the Iranian diplomat rejected any initiative that involves the forced removal of Palestinians from Gaza, denouncing it as an act of ethnic cleansing. Both ministers stressed the need for continued solidarity within the Muslim world and the broader international community to support the Palestinian people and aid in Gaza’s reconstruction.  

 

Saudi Arabia reaffirms rejection of Palestinian displacement

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan reiterated Saudi Arabia’s firm rejection of any calls for the displacement of the Palestinian people from their land or attempts to impose solutions that do not meet their legitimate aspirations for self-determination. 

He warned of the grave consequences such actions could have on both the region and the world, reports Saudi Gazette.

Speaking at the extraordinary ministerial meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah on Friday, Prince Faisal stressed the importance of ensuring a sustained ceasefire in Gaza and holding Israel accountable for adhering to international law.

He reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to working with partner and friendly nations through the Two-State Solution Coalition to push forward its implementation.

During the meeting, the Saudi foreign minister welcomed Syria’s reinstatement to the OIC, expressing hope that the country would contribute positively to the organization's efforts.

The meeting featured speeches from OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha, Cameroon’s Minister of Foreign Relations and Chairman of the Council of Foreign Ministers Logen Mbela Mbela, Gambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Gambian Expatriates Mamadou Tangara, and Palestinian Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohamed Mustafa.

In his speech, OIC Secretary General Hissein Brahim Taha reaffirmed his support for the reconstruction plan for the Gaza Strip, which was adopted by the Arab Summit.

He underscored the need for mobilizing financial and political resources to implement the plan, within an integrated political and economic framework aimed at achieving the two-state solution.

He also warned of Israel’s unacceptable actions to liquidate the Palestinian refugee issue and reiterated that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) remains irreplaceable in providing essential services to millions of Palestinian refugees.

Taha highlighted the urgent challenges facing the Palestinian cause, including ongoing occupation, settlement expansion, daily crimes, annexation efforts, and forced displacement by Israel.

He condemned Israeli attempts to Judaize Al-Quds and violate its sacred sites, along with the siege, starvation, mass arrests, and destruction of Palestinian cities, camps, infrastructure, and homes.

He called for immediate international action to achieve a sustainable ceasefire, complete withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.

He emphasized the necessity of enabling the Palestinian government to fulfill its responsibilities and preserving the unity of Palestinian territories, including Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.