Final Stage of IRGC Missile Drill Begins

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran held the final stage of a missile drill on Tuesday, March 9. According to news agencies Fars and Tasnim, the drill began with the presence of Major General Mohammad Ali Jafari, the IRGC commander, and Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force. The report states that the firing of ballistic missiles 'in several stages and from various locations' in Iran was one of the main programs of this drill. The IRGC had previously released images of its underground missile storage facilities. The goal of the new drill has been declared as 'demonstrating deterrent power' and 'the comprehensive readiness of Islamic Iran to confront any threats against the revolution, the system, and the territorial integrity of the country.' Iran's missile program is a source of concern for the international community and regional countries. Extensive sanctions and restrictions have also been imposed against this program by the United Nations Security Council and some countries. Iran claims that its missile program is 'defensive' and does not recognize the restrictions against it.