AGENCIES

Iran’s elite Islamic ⁠Revolutionary Guard ​Corps (IRGC) said yesterday the country’s armed forces are fully prepared to respond to any military scenario, according to Iran’s state news agency IRNA.

Quoting IRGC spokesperson Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini, IRNA reported that detailed action plans are in place to counter what Tehran describes as hostile moves by its adversaries, including potential military action.

Naeini accused the United States of waging psychological warfare against Iran in recent days, saying Washington has relied on coercion and intimidation to spread fear among the Iranian public.

Iran’s army yesterday added 1,000 drones to its combat regiments as its chief vowed a “crushing response” to any attack, state television reported.

European Union foreign ministers, meanwhile, adopted new sanctions on Iran yesterday targeting individuals and entities involved in a violent crackdown on protesters and in the country’s support to Russia, EU diplomats said.

The ministers are also expected to reach a political agreement to include Iran’s IRGC on the bloc’s list of terrorist organisations.

Turkey will offer to mediate between Washington and Tehran during a visit by Iran’s foreign minister today, officials said, as Ankara considers reinforcing security along its border should the dispute escalate.