The Israeli navy confirmed Thursday that it participated in a US-led exercise with Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and some other countries that do not have diplomatic relations with the Jewish state.
The US Navy said in a statement that more than 9,000 personnel from 60 militaries took part in the International Maritime Exercise (IMX), which began Jan. 31.
Participants included Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Comoros, Djibouti, Somalia and Yemen who do not have diplomatic relations with Israel.
Several countries with which Israel has recently normalized relations – such as the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain – also participated. Bahrain is a close ally of the United States and hosts the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet.
The participating countries include many countries that do not have diplomatic relations with Israel
The US Navy said the biennial exercise began in 2012 and has become “the largest multinational naval exercise in the Middle East”.
Israeli media reported that this is the first Israeli participation in a military maneuver with countries that do not have diplomatic relations with the country.
Israeli Navy Commander David Salameh said in a statement that their participation in the US exercises “demonstrates enhanced connectivity between our fleets, based on strength, mutual learning and strategic partnership.”
He said that the Israeli navy “works with our American partners to prevent terrorism in the maritime arena and enhance the security of the region’s waters.”
The head of the US Fifth Fleet, Admiral Brad Cooper, who during the past month met with Mr. Salameh, Defense Minister Benny Gantz and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, also praised the growing relations between the two navies.
This joint practice demonstrates our determination to protect international law and order. This is a special opportunity to expand interoperability as we strengthen our maritime links,” Mr. Cooper said.
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