THE Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Navy praised the thorough monitoring carried out by his troops on United States (US) warships sailing through regional waters.
“The United States aircraft carrier as well as 16 destroyers and frigates in the area are continuously monitored by our surveillance aircraft,” said Rear Admiral Shahram Irani on Monday (4/11).
“We are in over their heads,” he added. He was referring to the warship in question.
Iran’s surveillance planes are visible even to the naked eye, said the commander, who described the visibility as the Islamic Republic’s way of telling Americans that, “This is not your place and we are watching all your movements.”
“It is a very important fact that we have the capability to monitor the enemy even at sea,” Irani said. He noted that this issue has turned into a cause for concern for Americans.
The commander praised the Navy for successfully providing security for Iranian ships and state ships that had asked the navy for protection by requesting the escort of their ships.
“The Navy is escorting oil and commercial cargo from the Venezuelan coastline to the Americas, Europe and Africa, facing any violations that may occur against our ships,” Irani said.
He cited the recent recapture and confiscation of an oil embargo by the Iranian navy as well as the seizure of a ship carrying the embargo which had been confiscated by the United States, even though the ship had been renamed by America.
The Commander-in-Chief further emphasized that the Islamic Republic Navy wanted to demonstrate the strength of Islamic institutions (that country) overseas (internationally).
The navy seeks to make its efforts serve as, “A point of strength for the institutions of the Islamic Republic,” he said. (Press TV/Z-2)
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**Interview with Rear Admiral Shahram Irani, Commander of the Iranian Navy**
**Editor:** Welcome, Admiral Irani. Thank you for joining us today. Recently, the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group returned home after a significant nine-month deployment in the U.S. 5th Fleet. Can you share your thoughts on this deployment?
**Admiral Irani:** Thank you for having me. The return of the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group highlights the ongoing presence of U.S. naval forces in our region. It’s important to note that we keep a close watch on their movements. Our surveillance capabilities are robust, and we ensure that every ship is monitored.
**Editor:** You mentioned that U.S. warships are being closely monitored. Can you elaborate on how your forces conduct these operations?
**Admiral Irani:** Certainly. We utilize advanced reconnaissance aircraft and drones to keep an eye on not just aircraft carriers but also the supporting destroyers and frigates. This continuous surveillance allows us to assess their activities and maintain our readiness.
**Editor:** Some might interpret this as a sign of heightened tensions between the U.S. and Iran. How do you view the current state of military engagement in the area?
**Admiral Irani:** The presence of foreign naval forces in our waters is always viewed with scrutiny from our side. We believe that maintaining our surveillance not only ensures our security but also acts as a deterrent to any potential aggression. We are committed to protecting our interests.
**Editor:** Reflecting on your comments, do you see any potential for dialogue or de-escalation between the U.S. and Iran regarding naval presence in the region?
**Admiral Irani:** Dialogue is always preferable over confrontation. However, any discussions need to acknowledge mutual respects for sovereignty and security. It is vital that all parties involved recognize the importance of stability in the waters of the Persian Gulf.
**Editor:** Thank you, Admiral Irani, for sharing your insights today. The situation continues to evolve, and we appreciate your perspective.
**Admiral Irani:** Thank you. It is crucial that we remain vigilant and prepared, but we also hope for a peaceful resolution to international tensions.
