WANA (Jan 08) – Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour, commander of the IRGC Ground Forces, announced the commencement of the “Great Prophet 19” military drill, focusing on security in western Iran. The exercise is being conducted in the strategic highlands of Ezgeleh and Bamo near the Diyala Province border in Iraq.

 

Speaking to reporters, he stated, “The Great Prophet 19 drill has two aspects: a security aspect, which began today in the western border areas of the country, and a defensive aspect, which will be conducted in the southern regions in the near future.”

 

General Pakpour emphasized the geographical and security importance of the region, noting, “These areas, particularly after the imposed war and incidents in Iraq, had become hubs for terrorist Takfiri groups. Even during ISIS’s presence in Iraq, this region was one of the most contaminated border areas, used for the transit and organization of Takfiri forces.”

 

 

Highlighting the necessity of bolstering forces’ readiness, he added, “This drill is part of the IRGC Ground Forces’ ongoing programs to enhance combat capability and prepare troops in sensitive border areas. Its purpose is to counter potential threats and ensure lasting security at the country’s borders.”

 

The IRGC Ground Forces commander further noted, “Our special operations units are participating in this exercise to better familiarize themselves with these strategic areas. Such measures serve as a decisive response to any threat or aggression by the enemies of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

 

He concluded by declaring, “The message of this drill to our enemies is clear: the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are at the highest level of readiness and will respond forcefully to any threats against the country’s borders.”