TEHRAN: Iranian state television said Iran has started a joint naval drill with the Pakistani navy east of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which one fifth of the world's oil supply passes.

Tuesday's report did not say how the exercise in the Oman Sea would last.

Iran's official IRNA news agency reported on Sunday that the Pakistani vessels include a warship, a submarine and logistics vessels.

It said the Pakistani fleet will leave after four days.

In the past, regional countries have had a presence at similar Iranian maneuvers as observers.