Iran has begun the “Great Prophet 19” large-scale military exercise and announced an upcoming anti-terror campaign, state media reported.
The primary goal of the exercise is to improve coordination in the armed forces’ defensive and offensive strategies.
It also integrates new military equipment for effective countermeasures against enemy threats.
The drills involve specialized military units from the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) that will train for the rapid deployment of troops and equipment in the area of Kermanshah, western Iran.
The location is strategically important due to its proximity to the border with Iraq and potential exposure to security threats, IRGC Brigadier General Mohammad-Nazar Azimi explained.
“The country will not hesitate to strengthen its military capabilities, including its missile power, which are entirely meant for defense,” Press TV quoted other Iranian officials as saying.
“Iran’s defense capabilities will never be subject to negotiations,” they added.
Moreover, Brigadier General Ali Shadmani announced that the country will stage an extensive campaign across air, land, and water for the next two months to combat terrorist groups.
Shadmani added that the operation will strengthen the forces’ command network and enhance the army’s preparedness.
Regional Instability
The announcements come at a critical time for Tehran as regional tensions have grown in the Middle East.
Last month, the Iranian military left Syria after the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, a historic ally of the Islamic Republic.
During the civil war that started in Syria in 2011, Iran backed al-Assad, providing troops and equipment, and establishing a strong presence on the ground.
Moreover, the recent change of power in Damascus further destabilized crucial interests for Tehran’s regional influence under the “axis of resistance.”
The Iran-led alliance includes Lebanon’s Hezbollah, Palestinian Hamas, Yemen’s Houthis, and militias in Iraq united by their opposition to Israel.