AMMAN, May 12 (Xinhua) -- The annual Eager Lion military drill hosted by the Jordan Armed Forces started Sunday, with ground, naval, and air forces from 33 countries, including the United States and 10 other Arab countries, partaking in it.

Armed forces and security agencies from partner countries, as well as observers from governmental and non-governmental institutions, are participating in the military exercise, which runs until May 23, said Mostafa Al-Hiyari, director of Military Media at the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army, at a press conference.

He said the exercise aims for strategic, operational, and training objectives and seeks a common understanding among the participating countries about threats that transcend borders, such as terrorist organizations and the proliferation of destructive weapons.

Al-Hiyari added that the drill involves the planning, targeting, and management of ground, sea, and air combat operations, logistical support operations, and response to natural disasters and pandemics.

The military official stressed that the exercise will take place across the kingdom and has no ties with any developments in the region.

Also at the press conference, Herbert Lee Breard, chief of the Exercises Division at the U.S. Central Command, said this year's Eager Lion drill is "new and different," highlighting its focus on people, partnerships, innovation frames, and humanitarian aid after natural disasters. Enditem

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