"The Zionist regime may have concerns (...), but we will continue our plans without worrying about the plan and in coordination with the [country] friends in the region," said Admiral Sayari cited by Iranian agency IRNA. "The visit of our warships in Syrian port of Latakia is an ordinary visit and carries a message of peace and friendship," said the admiral was quoted as saying on his arrival in Damascus on Wednesday night to Thursday.
Admiral Sayari has denied reports that Iranian ships will conduct military exercises. "A number of Iranian naval cadets are present and it is a long journey of training at sea," he said. Survey of ships in Syria is "routine" and is "short", said Sunday an Iranian diplomatic source. They "remain a few days in the Syrian ports. The goal is to make training," he added, highlighting the "strategic relations" between Syria and Iran.
ISRAEL DOES NOT "TAKE ANY INITIATIVE
According to the official news agency Fars, the buildings in question are the Kharg, a supply ship and support of 33 000 tonnes and Alvand, a patrol frigate, both of British construction. The Kharg has a crew of 250 people and can accommodate up to three helicopters. The Alvand is armed with torpedoes and antiship missiles.
Israel does not "take any action" against the Iranian ships, but there will be "an immediate Israeli response" to any change of route considered provocative, warned Tuesday a senior Israeli security under cover of anonymity.
