Iran militant cells were dismantled in Sistan-Baluchestan, southeastern Iran, where security forces arrested 19 people before any attack, the Intelligence Ministry said Tuesday.
The ministry said the operation targeted four alleged “takfiri” cells in the province, which borders Pakistan and Afghanistan. Iran International also reported the arrests, citing the ministry.
News Az, citing Fars News Agency, said the ministry accused the suspects of planning sabotage, assassinations and attacks. It also said most detainees were foreign nationals.
According to the ministry, security forces seized one DShK heavy machine gun, two RPG-7 launchers, seven rockets, one M4 rifle, five Kalashnikov rifles and six pistols.
The ministry said the suspects had received military and explosives training from militant groups based in neighbouring countries. It did not name those countries.
Sistan-Baluchestan has seen repeated violence involving armed groups, smugglers and security forces. The Associated Press reported in August 2025 that Iranian forces killed 13 militants in the same province after a deadly police attack.
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Iran’s Intelligence Ministry said security forces dismantled four alleged militant cells and arrested 19 people in Sistan-Baluchestan before any attack.
