Iran preparing ground invasion of neighboring country - media

Iran is increasing military activity in northern Iraq, conducting a series of ground operations against Kurdish armed groups. According to the Iranian side, over the past two months, units of the 23rd Airborne Brigade have carried out at least 14 raids, which may indicate preparation for larger-scale actions in the border region. Military adviser Mojtaba Jaafari said the operations took place in the areas of Sulaymaniyah and Erbil, where Kurdish opposition formations are based. Some raids were conducted in recent days, in parallel with negotiations between Iran and the United States. Iran claims that several Kurdish fighters were killed, others captured, and Iranian units suffered no losses. The operations involve the 23rd Airborne Brigade 'Takvar' - one of the largest special forces units of the Iranian army, subordinate to the regular armed forces. Military analysts believe the increased activity could be a preparatory stage before a possible expansion of the ground campaign against Kurdish formations in Iraqi Kurdistan. Tehran views Kurdish armed groups as one of the main threats to national security. Iran demonstrates readiness to act independently, without waiting for the completion of diplomatic contacts with Washington.