A senior official from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has praised Iran’s firm commitment to counterterrorism efforts since joining the regional bloc, emphasizing Tehran’s active role in joint security operations.

Sergei Kysanyi, secretary of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure’s executive committee, said at a press briefing on Tuesday that Iran has demonstrated “strong determination” in confronting terrorist threats alongside other member states.

He highlighted the Sahand 2025 joint counterterrorism exercise, noting that its first phase, carried out from July 1 to August 1, focused on challenges posed by international terrorist organizations. The drill also incorporated assessments of the protection of critical infrastructure and key facilities across participating countries to evaluate their resilience to potential attacks.

The final stage of the Sahand 2025 exercise will be held in Shabestar, located in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province. Hosted by the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Ground Forces in cooperation with the Foreign Ministry, the five-day drill will bring together 18 delegations from SCO member states as well as regional security and military institutions.

Iran introduces next-gen missiles

Iran commenced large-scale missile drills back in August, codenamed “Sustainable Power 1404,” in a forceful demonstration of deterrence amid escalating regional tensions.

Rear Admiral Abbas Hosseini, spokesperson for the exercises, said the two-day operations cover the northern Indian Ocean and the Sea of Oman, integrating surface and subsurface vessels, aerial units, missile platforms, and electronic warfare divisions.

The maneuvers feature live missile launches, advanced drone operations, and complex electronic warfare scenarios, reflecting combat experience gained in recent years.

Iran's defense minister warns of Tehran's yet unseen missiles 

Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh confirmed days earlier that Tehran possesses advanced missile systems with capabilities far superior to those deployed in its recent response to US-"Israel" aggression.

Nasirzadeh explained that the missiles used in the earlier confrontation were produced years ago, while Iran’s defense industries have since developed newer and more effective generations, stressing that Iran will employ these advanced systems if the enemy undertakes any reckless actions.

He also emphasized that the latest confrontation was not solely with the Israeli entity, but also with US forces that provided direct logistical and intelligence support.

Highlighting Iran’s growing defense industry, Nasirzadeh noted that the country has made significant progress in upgrading its missile arsenal, ensuring readiness against any potential threats.