TEHRAN – A high-ranking commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has rung alarm bells about foreign schemes aiming to harm regional security, saying Iran would not hesitate to make direct responses to such plots. 

“Security is one of the most vital pillars, a red line, and the axis of our unity. Therefore, we are extremely sensitive about it and do not hesitate to take any action to protect and safeguard it. We do not joke or play around with anyone or any power regarding this important matter,” IRGC Ground Force Commander Brigadier General Mohammad Pakpour said during a gathering on Tuesday. 

Pakpour explained that foreign forces have been recruiting individuals across West Asia to create a sprawling network of terrorists. “The enemy is making every effort to challenge the security of the region and disrupt the peace and comfort of the people through some blind actions, which involve hiring and recruiting certain individuals and supporting terrorist groups indirectly within the framework of these actions,” he noted. 

The military official said though hostile foreign forces have heavily invested in destabilizing schemes in the past years, Iran and other countries in the region are expected to be able to overcome any new challenges coming their way. 

“Security is the foundation of tranquility, development, progress, the infrastructure of life, and activity, and for this reason, the enemy has made significant investments to undermine and damage it. But we are also alert at all times and possess the capability to deal with these issues.”