Gunmen affiliated with Jaish al-Zolm, a group long responsible for deadly attacks on Iranian civilians and forces launched a fresh assault on the Sistan and Baluchestan Provincial Courthouse Saturday morning, killing six civilians and injuring several others before being neutralized by security forces.

Why it matters:

Jaish al-Zolm has a documented history of launching cross-border terrorist operations from hideouts in Pakistan’s borderlands, repeatedly targeting Iranian civilians, security personnel, and infrastructure. This latest attack represents a continued threat from foreign-based terrorism seeking to destabilize Iran’s southeastern provinces.

 

What he's saying:

According to the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC), three terrorists were killed by the Quds Base forces during the operation to secure the courthouse. Iranian officials emphasized that security forces regained full control of the situation within hours and are closely monitoring the border for any further threats.

Moreover, six individuals, including likely civilians and court staff, were martyred, while thirteen others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals by emergency responders. The numbers are still preliminary, and investigations into the full scale of the attack are ongoing.

What they're saying:

The Jaish al-Zolm terrorist group, which has carried out multiple deadly attacks in recent years, has claimed responsibility for this morning’s assault. Local sources report multiple injuries, with some victims transported to nearby medical facilities by ambulance. No fatalities have been officially confirmed yet.

 

Key points:

  • The attack took place at the Sistan and Baluchestan Provincial Courthouse on Azadi Street in Zahedan early Saturday.
  • Gunmen linked to Jaish al-Zolm stormed the building and opened fire.
  • The courthouse is now fully secured by Iranian law enforcement and intelligence forces.

Go deeper:

Jaish al-Zolm, designated a terrorist group by Iran, has repeatedly exploited the porous border between southeastern Iran and western Pakistan to carry out deadly ambushes, bombings, and kidnappings. Iran has urged the Pakistani government on multiple occasions to crack down on these safe havens. The attack on a judiciary center the very symbol of justice and civil authority signals a strategic move by the group to create chaos and provoke fear within Iranian society. Analysts warn that without greater cross-border security cooperation, such groups may continue to pose a long-term threat to regional stability.

 

ahmad shirzadian - ahmad shirzadian