TEHRAN (Tasnim) � Iranian Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari highlighted the Navy�s presence in high seas as a manifestation of the country�s power, saying the force plans to dispatch its 43rd flotilla to Africa and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Islamic Republic of Iran�s Army Navy is tasked with safeguarding the country�s borders, resources and interests, he said on Wednesday, adding that the strategic force also has presence in international waters, showcasing the might of the Islamic Establishment.

Rear Admiral Sayyari further said the Navy�s 43rd flotilla of warships will be in high seas on a mission to protect commercial vessels and oil tankers in Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, against attacks by pirates.

He said it will also be sent to Tanzania, South Africa and the Atlantic Ocean if the weather conditions are favorable.

The commander underlined that based on international laws, Iran�s Navy has the right to be present in all international waters.

In recent years, Iran�s naval forces have increased their presence in high seas to secure naval routes and protect merchant vessels and oil tankers against pirates.

In line with international efforts to combat piracy, the Iranian Navy has been conducting anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden since November 2008 to safeguard the vessels involved in maritime trade, especially the ships and oil tankers owned or leased by Iran.

By Tasnim News Agency