Most member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization have deployed troops to Iran for ongoing joint counter-terrorism drills. The maneuvers, scheduled to conclude on December 5, continue in Iran’s northwestern region. General Vali Ma’dani, who commands the exercises and represents the executive committee, announced the developments during a press conference.
Ma’dani said most SCO countries have dispatched units to join the special forces teams operating in the drills. He added that several states have sent military representatives to join the Joint Chiefs of Staff coordinating operations. He confirmed that officials will present a report on the first phase of the “Joint Counter-Terrorism Drills Sahand-2025” on December 4.
IRGC highlights significance of drills
Iranian commanders stressed the importance of the exercises. An IRGC commander said Iran remains a key frontline state in the war against terrorism. He noted that more than 17,000 Iranians, including women and children, have died in terrorist attacks. He argued that the drills underline Iran’s long-standing commitment to confronting extremist groups.
Political leadership underscores message to external powers
On Tuesday, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said the large-scale maneuvers send a clear message to what he called hegemonic powers. He argued that the drills demonstrate the determination of independent states to defend themselves against coercive policies. He said Iran continues to expand defense cooperation and joint initiatives with partner countries.
Exercises mark growing SCO military coordination
The IRGC Ground Force is hosting the drills in East Azarbaijan Province. The exercises follow the SCO’s first live counter-terrorism drill, “Interaction-2024,” held in China in July 2024. Officials say the Sahand-2025 maneuvers aim to strengthen coordination among member states and improve joint responses to regional threats.
The SCO, founded in 2001, is now the largest regional organization by area and population. Iran became a full member in 2023. The organization continues to focus on regional security, economic cooperation and cultural exchange among its eight members.
