MANAMA, Nov 2: US naval forces in the Gulf are conducting exercises to enhance their capacity to respond to crises, the Fifth Fleet said on Friday from its base in Bahrain.

The manoeuvres, which began on Thursday involving amphibious, air and medical forces, are the first of a series of exercises planned in the Gulf in November “to demonstrate a wide range of capabilities, including humanitarian assistance and disaster-relief assistance,” a statement said.

The statement linked the drills to potential disaster situations or oil spills without mentioning military conflict.

But the exercises come as the White House ramps up its rhetoric against Iran, warning recently of “World War III” if Tehran obtained atomic weapons.—AFP