Revolutionary Guards launch major drills near Iraq border

Iran’s elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched significant military drills in the western province of Kermanshah, with operations continuing until Tuesday.

The drills, which began on Friday, aim to “enhance combat readiness and vigilance,” according to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA). This escalation comes as Israel braces for potential Iranian retaliation following the twin assassinations of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr and Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh, despite Israel’s non-acknowledgment of involvement.

The timing of these exercises coincides with upcoming ceasefire and hostage deal negotiations scheduled for Thursday, hosted by the US, Qatar, and Egypt.

The potential for a massive Iranian aerial attack, reminiscent of April’s strikes, could significantly impact these talks. Hamas has reportedly requested that mediators present a plan based on previous discussions rather than initiating new negotiations and has declined to send a negotiation team.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has called for an end to the “destructive spiral of retaliation” following discussions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Scholz condemned the threats against Israel from Iran and Hezbollah and advocated for an agreement to release hostages and establish a ceasefire.