Iran hails military cooperation with Armenia following joint drills

On April 9-10, Iran and Armenia conducted joint military exercises aimed at enhancing border security and counterterrorism efforts.

The drills took place along the Iran-Armenia border, with high-level participation from both nations' armed forces.

Brigadier General Seyed Mortaza Mirian, a representative of Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff, praised the exercises, underscoring their significance in fostering cooperation between the two countries, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

The drills focused on neutralizing simulated terrorist threats targeting border checkpoints. Both Iranian and Armenian forces conducted operations on their respective territories, utilizing both light and heavy weapons while also practicing sniper operations.

Iran’s participation was led by elite units of the 31st Ashura Division of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), based in Tabriz. General Valiollah Madani, Deputy Commander of IRGC Ground Forces for Operations, oversaw the exercises. Madani highlighted the strategic importance of the region and the necessity of enhancing combat readiness for combating terrorism. He emphasized that the primary goal of the exercises was to reinforce border security and maintain peace and stability in the region.

From Armenia’s perspective, the Ministry of Defense reported that the exercises focused on training forces to counter potential terrorist attacks on border crossings. However, the ministry did not specify how many Armenian troops participated.

The Iranian Embassy in Armenia issued a statement emphasizing the political significance of the exercises. It noted that the joint training was conducted under unified command, demonstrating the commitment of both nations to strengthening their strategic partnership. The statement further highlighted the mutual goal of ensuring regional peace and stability through enhanced defense cooperation.

By Tamilla Hasanova