Iranian Defense Minister Ahmad Vahidi said that the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz are vital for Iran and will be protected at any price, Trend reports.
Vahidi said that mine-clearing drills attended by 30 states, including the US, violated security. The 12-day drills will focus on maintenance of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and mine-clearing.
The Strait of Hormuz is used for up to a quarter of crude oil shipments of the world. Iran has threatened to block the strait on numerous occasions as response to western pressure.
