Nine killed in courthouse raid in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchistan province, Iranian media report

Nine killed in courthouse raid in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchistan province, Iranian media report
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At least nine people were killed in an armed attack on a courthouse in Zahedan, Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan province, Arab News reported. The attackers, from the Jaish Al-Adl Baluch group, included three militants who died during the assault. Another 22 people were injured.

Among the dead were a toddler, a 60-year-old woman, and three soldiers or law enforcement officers assigned to the courthouse. The identity of a sixth victim was not disclosed. Officials reported the attackers wore explosive vests and carried grenades, though it was unclear if they detonated them.

Jaish Al-Adl claimed responsibility via Telegram, stating they targeted judges and court personnel over death sentences and house demolitions against Baluch citizens. The group warned judiciary members that Baluchestan would no longer be safe for them.

Sistan-Baluchestan, home to Iran’s Baluch minority, often experiences clashes between security forces and armed groups demanding greater rights and autonomy. Tehran accuses some militants of foreign ties and smuggling. In October, 10 police officers were killed in a similar attack.