Iran: Security forces kill suspected terrorists June 14

Event

On Wednesday, June 14, Iranian forces killed two suspected members of a militant terrorist group in the south of the country and arrested five others. Furthermore, on June 12 four individuals with suspected ties to the Islamic State (IS) were also killed in the south, in clashes with security forces. According to local authorities, at least 50 members of militant groups classified as “terrorist” have been arrested since the deadly attacks in Tehran on June 7, 2017.

Context

On June 7, in the first IS offensive to take place in Iran, coordinated attacks were carried out at the Iranian Parliament and the Khomeini Mausoleum in Tehran. Since then, Iranian authorities have launched a series of anti-terrorist operations, resulting in the deaths and arrests of many suspected militants present in the country.

There is a persistent threat of terrorism in Iran due to the involvement of Iranian forces and militias fighting IS within the context of the Syrian conflict. Furthermore, on June 12 IS called on members to carry out attacks on a specific group of countries (including Iran) during the remainder of Ramadan, which ends on June 25.

Advice

Individuals in Iran are advised to exercise vigilance and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the local authorities, particularly when in crowded places, and to be prepared for heightened security measures. All individuals should cooperate with authorities and always carry appropriate identification.