Iran will host the second SCO counterterrorism exercise, aiming to enhance regional security and cooperation. The SCO counterterrorism exercise will bring member states together to conduct joint drills under Iran’s leadership. Officials say the initiative will improve coordination and operational readiness against cross-border terrorist threats.
The drill, named Sahand–Counterterrorism–2025, is scheduled near the northwestern city of Tabriz. Authorities will soon send detailed invitations and schedules to participating and observer countries. Experts highlight that such exercises strengthen trust and collaboration between nations facing common security challenges.
Olarbek Sharshiev, head of the SCO’s Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), said the exercise demonstrates member states’ commitment to countering terrorism, extremism, and separatism. He emphasized that live drills allow agencies to practice real-world scenarios and respond quickly to threats.
This marks the second joint counterterrorism operation since the SCO’s establishment. The first, held in China, involved specialized operations targeting terrorist networks. Analysts note that repeated exercises build collective expertise and encourage intelligence-sharing among member states.
Iran views the SCO as a key platform for promoting multilateral security and sustaining an international order based on the rule of law. The organization, founded in 1996, initially included China, Russia, and Central Asian nations. Over time, it has expanded to include India, Pakistan, Iran, and Belarus, reflecting growing geopolitical influence.
The SCO’s permanent body, RATS, coordinates counterintelligence, intelligence gathering, and law enforcement efforts among members. It also focuses on narcoterrorism and drug smuggling, which increasingly fund anti-government activities. RATS maintains a database of individuals and groups considered terrorists, extremists, or separatists.
Leaders attending SCO summits, including Iran and Russia, stress the importance of cooperation in combating regional threats. Officials say joint exercises like this also pave the way for future transnational enforcement capabilities, including coordinated police and military operations.
Observers suggest that Iran’s hosting of the SCO counterterrorism exercise signals its strategic role in regional security. Experts predict that continued collaboration among member states could improve border control, intelligence sharing, and rapid response to terrorist activities.
The SCO counterterrorism exercise underscores the growing importance of multilateral action in safeguarding stability. By strengthening operational readiness, member states aim to prevent the spread of extremism and maintain peace across the region.