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An Iranian general and a pilot from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed in a helicopter crash during an anti-terror operation in Sistan-Baluchistan province, according to state media.
The incident involved an “ultra-light gyroplane” and occurred in Sirkan while the IRGC was conducting combat operations in a border area.
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The deceased were identified as General Hamid Mazandarani, commander of the Nineveh Brigade, and pilot Hamed Jandaghi.
The operation in the region began on October 26 after a deadly attack claimed by Sunni militants resulted in the deaths of 10 police officers.
Reports indicate that Iranian forces have since killed several militants and made multiple arrests.
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Sistan-Baluchistan is a strategically significant yet impoverished region, home to a large Baluch minority that often clashes with Iranian security forces.
The province has been a hotspot for conflict involving ethnic insurgents, drug traffickers, and radical Sunni groups.
Helicopter accidents are uncommon in Iran, although a previous incident in May claimed the life of former President Ebrahim Raisi and others when their helicopter crashed into a mountainside.
