Five security forces have been killed in ‘terrorist attacks’ in Iran. In a series of coordinated assaults, suspected Sunni Muslim militants targeted the headquarters of Iran‘s Revolutionary Guards in the southeastern province of Sistan-Baluchestan.
The attacks, deemed as “terrorist” acts by state media, resulted in the deaths of at least five Iranian security forces.
Deadly Clashes Erupt in Chabahar and Rask
Overnight clashes ensued between the militants, identified as members of the Jaish al-Adl group, and Iranian security forces in the towns of Chabahar and Rask.
State TV confirmed the deaths of 15 militants during these confrontations.
Deputy Interior Minister Majid Mirahmadi emphasized that the militants failed to seize control of the Guard’s headquarters in both locations.
Casualties and Injuries Reported
As a consequence of the clashes, ten security officers sustained injuries.
The province, known for its predominantly Sunni Muslim population, has been a consistent battleground between Iranian security forces and various groups, including Sunni militants and drug traffickers.
Jaish al-Adl’s Ideology and Objectives
Jaish al-Adl, an extremist Sunni Muslim militant organization, claims to advocate for the rights and living conditions of ethnic minority Baluchis in Iran, where the majority population adheres to Shia Islam.
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The group has asserted responsibility for multiple attacks on Iranian security forces in Sistan-Baluchestan province in recent years.
Historical Context and Regional Dynamics
Sistan-Baluchestan, situated along the borders of Afghanistan and Pakistan, has long been plagued by clashes between Iranian security forces and various armed groups.
Additionally, the region serves as a crucial transit point for narcotics smuggled from Afghanistan to destinations worldwide.
Previous Incidents and Retaliatory Measures
As five security forces killed in ‘terrorist attacks’ in Iran, earlier In December, Jaish al-Adl militants targeted a police station in Rask, resulting in the deaths of 11 security personnel.
In response, Iran launched missile strikes on two bases of the militant group in Pakistan in January.
Islamabad swiftly retaliated, claiming to target separatist militants operating within Iranian territory.
