New IRGC drill to prepare for potential Persian Gulf conflict, spokesman tells Tehran Times

General Mohammad Hadi Sefidchian, spokesman for the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) ground force drills, announced to the Tehran Times that the second stage of exercises, which began in early January, will simulate combating an attack by enemy air, ground, and sea forces in the Persian Gulf.
The exercises, slated to commence shortly and continue for four days, will not be conducted directly in the Persian Gulf, instead, it will take place in southwestern Iran, General Sefidchian clarified. “This is to prevent external forces from observing tactics and strategies,” he explained.

He stated, “Iran is not seeking war. However, should a war occur, the IRGC ground forces are fully prepared and ready to defend the nation.”
The initial stage of the drill, part of broader nationwide maneuvers involving all branches of the Iranian armed forces, concentrated on countering terrorist and smuggler infiltration along Iran’s western borders. The Army (Artesh) conducted similar exercises in Iran’s eastern regions.

According to General Sefidchian, “The first stage of the drill focused on security and intelligence. The second will focus on defense. Combatting a conventional enemy force naturally requires more resources and personnel than eliminating terrorist groups. Therefore, the upcoming exercises will engage all branches of the IRGC ground forces and utilize a variety of equipment and weaponry.”
The developments come as tensions have been growing between Iran and the United States over a host of issues, including Israel, Iran’s nuclear program, and Washington’s attempts to stymie Tehran’s oil sales. Analysts believe the risk of a direct confrontation in West Asia could be high if U.S. President Donald Trump goes overboard in pressuring Iran to limit its nuclear and military capabilities, demands Iran says would forever be off the table.