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Iran and Armenia Conduct Joint Border Security Drills

Iran and Armenia completed two days of joint military exercises last week focused on simulating responses to terrorist threats along their shared border. The drills underscore ongoing security cooperation between the neighboring countries amidst a complex regional geopolitical landscape involving multiple conflicts and shifting alliances.

The exercises, spanning both sides of the 44-kilometer border, were conducted with the utmost professionalism and seriousness, involving elite forces. These forces included units from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) based in Tabriz, overseen by IRGC Ground Forces Deputy Commander General Valiollah Madani. According to Iranian state media, the maneuvers aimed to "consolidate the security of the borders based on the shared interests of the two countries." Armenia's Ministry of Defence confirmed the focus was on countering "attacks by simulated terrorist groups" on border crossings, utilizing light and heavy weaponry, as well as sniper units, though troop numbers were not disclosed.

These joint drills occur against a backdrop of significant regional tensions. Iran remains embroiled in multiple proxy conflicts, allegedly backing groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, facing scrutiny over its nuclear program, and accused of supplying drones to Russia for its war in Ukraine. While recently pivoting towards closer relations with the West, Armenia maintains pragmatic ties with Tehran. This relationship is significant as Armenia's borders with neighbors Azerbaijan and Turkey have been closed for over three decades due to long-standing conflicts, despite recent reports of progress towards a peace treaty with Azerbaijan over the Karabakh region. The exercises underscore the intricate and strategic calculations of both nations as they navigate security concerns in the volatile South Caucasus.

Map: Wikimedia Commons

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