Russia and Iran conducted joint naval exercises on Thursday.

The drills took place in the Sea of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean, as tensions rise over Tehran’s nuclear program and the United States deploys warships in the Middle East, The Caspian Post reports, citing Iran International.

Rear Admiral Hassan Maghsoodloo, spokesperson for the exercises, said the maneuvers were aimed at enhancing maritime security and fostering sustainable interaction at sea.

Earlier, the Kremlin said it was witnessing an unprecedented increase in tensions around Iran and urged Tehran and other parties to exercise prudence and restraint.

Although Russia and Iran have a strategic partnership treaty, it does not include a mutual defense clause.