Why it matters:
The coordinated operations highlight ongoing security challenges along Iran's southeastern borders, where terrorist groups backed by foreign sponsors have repeatedly staged cross-border attacks targeting civilians and security forces.
The big picture:
The IRGC’s Quds Base, in collaboration with Iran’s Intelligence Ministry operatives and Police Command of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FARAJA), launched simultaneous operations in Iranshahr, Khash, and Saravan, areas frequently used by terrorists for infiltration and smuggling.
Key points:
- The operations took place at dawn on Wednesday across three counties.
- 13 terrorists were killed during clashes.
- Several militants were captured alive and are under interrogation.
- The IRGC statement said the operations targeted “terrorist cells linked to hostile groups.”
What they're saying:
IRGC Quds Base Statement:
“During three simultaneous operations in Iranshahr, Khash, and Saravan, several terrorists were eliminated and others arrested. Our forces, alongside the Intelligence Ministry operatives, continue to ensure security and stability in the region.”
"In the operation, a kidnapped citizen was freed by IRGC forces."
"In three joint operations carried out with the cooperation of the Police Command (FARAJA), the Intelligence Organization of the IRGC, 13 terrorists were killed and several others were arrested in Iranshahr, Khash, and Saravan."
Police Command:
Spokesman for Police Command, Brigadier General Montazer al-Mahdi, stated that a quantity of weapons and ammunition was discovered and seized during the operations.
"Eight of the slain terrorists had martyred five police officers last week in the "Damen" area of Iranshahr."
On Friday, 17 August 2025, armed assailants attacked two police patrol units on the Khash-Iranshahr Road in Sistan and Balochistan province, leading to the tragic loss of five Iranian officers.
State of play:
Sistan and Baluchestan province, which borders Pakistan and Afghanistan, has long been a hotspot for terrorist activities and smuggling networks that foreign intelligence organizations support to destabilize the region.
Between the lines:
The IRGC rarely releases full details of its counterterrorism operations, but the scale and coordination of Wednesday's dawn raids underscore growing efforts to dismantle militant cells before they strike.
Go deeper:
Hossein Vaez - Hossein Vaez
