Iran's Navy Commander Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari says the Islamic Republic�s naval forces are strongly fighting maritime terrorism in high seas.

Iran�s naval forces have been protecting routes used by Iranian vessels over recent years, confronting maritime terrorism and defending the Islamic Republic's economic interests, Sayyari said on Sunday.

He added that the naval forces have successfully fought pirates and escorted 2,600 merchant ships and oil tankers in such sensitive regions as Gulf of Aden, Bab-el-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea.

The 34th flotilla of the Iranian Navy, which comprises the Bushehr logistic vessel and Alborz destroyer, is currently conducting its mission in the high seas, the commander noted.

The 34th flotilla left Iran's southern port city of Bandar Abbas for the Gulf of Aden and the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait on April 8.

Sayyari further said Iran�s Navy plans to enhance the strategic power of the naval forces, adding, �We will not hesitate to protect the country�s interests and ensure security more strongly than before.�

In recent years, Iran�s Navy has increased its presence in international waters to protect naval routes and provide security for merchant vessels and tankers.

In line with international efforts against piracy, the Iranian Navy has been also conducting patrols in the Gulf of Aden since November 2008 in order to safeguard merchant containers and oil tankers owned or leased by Iran or other countries.

Iran�s Navy has managed to foil several attacks on both Iranian and foreign tankers during its missions in international waters.

By Press TV