Iran’s army begins exercises near border with Azerbaijan

Iran’s national army on Friday began exercises near its border with Azerbaijan, The Associated Press reported, citing state TV.

Artillery, drones and helicopters will participate in the drills, the report said, without elaborating on how long they would last or where exactly they would be held.

The exercises come amid escalating tensions along the border. Iran is wary of Azerbaijan in particular for its deep military cooperation with Israel, and on Thursday voiced its concerns to Azerbaijani ambassador in Tehran Ali Alizadeh.