Commander of Israeli Navy's Snapir Unit tells ToI latest exercise, dubbed Intrinsic Defender, will enhance forces' capabilities

US Navy says it chose to not intervene with seizure of ship suspected of smuggling activities since 'event did not warrant further response'

Iranian navy chief claims alliance will also include Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, India and Pakistan; announcement comes after UAE said it was leaving US-led force

Abu Dhabi announces its departure 2 months ago from Combined Maritime Forces, without specifying reason; tensions remain high with Iran

US Navy's 5th Fleet, based in Bahrain, says is 'working with regional allies and partners to increase the rotation of ships and aircraft' that patrol key Strait of Hormuz

Iranian navy says its own sub took action against US vessel in strategic Strait of Hormuz; 5th fleet calls statement 'more Iranian disinformation'

Spokesman says that while L3 Harris Arabian Fox MAST-13 speedboat carrying sensors and cameras drew attention of Iran's Revolutionary Guard, trip took place without incident

In rare move, Pentagon publishes picture of guided-missile submarine transiting the Suez Canal, says vessel will 'help ensure regional maritime security and stability'

Kalashnikov-style rifles, thought to have originated in Iran, found individually wrapped in green tarps aboard dhow sailing in Gulf of Oman lane used to smuggle goods to Houthis

Earlier this month Iran attempted to seize two American Saildrone Explorers in area; IDF hails exercise for 'strengthening cooperation' in protecting shipping routes