Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards are conducting military exercises in the western regions of the country, set to conclude on Tuesday, as reported by Iran's official news agency on Sunday.
These exercises, which commenced on Friday, are being held in the western province of Kermanshah near the border with Iraq with the aim of boosting combat readiness and vigilance, according to an official from the armed forces.
The drills are occurring amid Iran's pledge to respond to Israel following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31 in Tehran. Both Iran and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas hold Israel responsible for Haniyeh's death on July 31. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied its involvement in the killing, which has heightened concerns that the conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip could escalate into a broader Middle East conflict.
Revolutionary Guards deputy commander Ali Fadavi, quoted by Iranian media, stated on Friday that the orders from Iran's supreme leader concerning severe retribution against Israel and vengeance for Haniyeh are explicit and will be carried out in the most effective manner.
