Iran Dismantles Three Terror Cells in Sistan and Baluchestan Linked to US and Israel

TEHRAN, Sept. 7 (AP) — Iranian security forces dismantled three terrorist cells in the southeastern province of Sistan and Baluchestan on Sunday, preventing planned attacks attributed by authorities to operatives linked to the United States and Israel.

The Intelligence Ministry announced the operation early Sunday morning, stating that the cells were identified and neutralized before they could execute their objectives. Officials described the groups as foreign-backed networks operating within the province, which has historically been a focal point for separatist unrest and security operations.

"Security forces successfully disrupted three terrorist cells linked to US and Israeli intelligence services in Sistan and Baluchestan," the ministry stated in a brief announcement. The statement did not specify the nature of the planned attacks or the number of individuals arrested, though it confirmed that all members of the cells had been apprehended.

Sistan and Baluchestan, bordering Pakistan and Afghanistan, is Iran's most populous province with a significant Baloch minority population. The region has long been subject to security crackdowns aimed at curbing separatist movements, which Tehran frequently accuses Western powers of supporting. In recent years, Iranian officials have repeatedly warned of foreign plots targeting military installations, government facilities, and civilian infrastructure in the area.

The announcement came amid heightened regional tensions following a series of cross-border incidents and diplomatic friction between Tehran and Washington. While the United States has not commented on the specific allegations made by Iran regarding its involvement in the cells, American officials have previously denied supporting terrorist activities within Iran's borders.

Israeli officials have also declined to address the claims directly. However, analysts note that Israel has engaged in covert operations across the Middle East in recent years, often targeting Iranian nuclear facilities and military assets. The specific connection between the dismantled cells and Israeli intelligence remains unverified by independent observers.

Local residents in Sistan and Baluchestan reported increased security presence in several districts following the announcement. Checkpoints were established on major highways, and patrols intensified in urban centers as authorities conducted follow-up investigations.

The Intelligence Ministry emphasized that the operation was part of a broader effort to safeguard national security and prevent foreign interference. It did not provide details on the weapons or materials seized during the raids, nor did it disclose whether any casualties occurred during the arrests.

As of Sunday afternoon, no further updates had been released regarding the status of the detainees or potential legal proceedings. Questions remain about the extent of the cells' operational capabilities and whether other networks may still be active in the region. Security forces indicated that investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the alleged plot.