U.S. and Israeli Navies Hold Joint Red Sea Drill Amid Regional Tensions

The United States Navy and the Israeli Navy have conducted a joint maritime exercise in the Red Sea, reinforcing long-standing military cooperation amid ongoing regional tensions.

According to military statements, a **U.S. Navy destroyer — the USS Delbert D. Black — carried out a routine maritime exercise with Israeli naval vessels after departing from a planned port visit in Eilat, Israel’s Red Sea port. The training was described by both sides as part of ongoing strategic cooperation between the U.S. 5th Fleet and Israel’s naval forces.

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) characterized the drill as a standard, pre-planned activity demonstrating the strong military partnership between the two nations. Participating forces practiced coordinated operations, showcasing interoperability and joint readiness in a sensitive maritime corridor that is critical for global shipping.

The exercise occurs against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, particularly related to diplomatic and security concerns involving Iran, but officials from both militaries stressed that the Red Sea drill was routine and part of broader efforts to maintain maritime security and stability across the region.