Iran's security forces have dismantled multiple networks linked to Israel, dismantling four terrorist Takfiri cells in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, capturing 16 terrorists and detaining three people for transmitting information on security and defense facilities, while a separate five-member network was identified in Kerman Province.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Sistan and Baluchestan’s Intelligence Ministry said its forces identified four cells through public reports, continuous intelligence gathering and operational surveillance.

The cells were “affiliated with the American-Zionist enemy”, the directorate said, adding that several of the 16 terrorists arrested had entered Iran from abroad.

“A number of the arrested terrorists were responsible for the martyrdom of security personnel in Iranshahr County,” the statement said, adding that the suspects were handed over to judicial authorities.

Security forces seized nine Kalashnikov rifles, two American-made M4 rifles and seven handguns, along with corresponding ammunition.

The ministry also reported the capture of three people for gathering and transmitting information about security headquarters and defense facilities in southern Sistan and Baluchestan to an “American-Zionist espionage-media network.”

The latest operation follows a series of counterterrorism measures in Sistan and Baluchestan, a southeastern province that has experienced armed attacks targeting security forces and other officials in recent weeks.

Iran Intelligence Ministry, IRGC neutralize terrorist squads in Sistan and Baluchistan

Two terrorists were killed in direct clashes with Iranian security forces, while 10 members of the imported terrorist teams were arrested.

Separately, authorities in Kerman Province announced the dismantling of a five-member network directed by Israel and linked to several members of the European Parliament.

Mehdi Bakhshi, the provincial prosecutor in Kerman, said preliminary reports indicated that members of a religious sect were seeking to recruit, train and organize personnel with the aim of overthrowing the Islamic Republic.

Bakhshi said the operation followed four months of intelligence work.

"The Intelligence unit of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps in Kerman identified the network through intelligence surveillance and specialized measures and dealt a blow to it as part of efforts to counter organized activities against the country’s security.”

Investigators are examining the network’s activities and foreign connections.

“Investigating the dimensions of this network, how its members communicated with the directing agents, and how the recruitment, training and organization plans were carried out is on the agenda.”

The prosecutor said the case will be examined by security and judicial authorities, and “various aspects of the matter will be investigated from security and judicial perspectives.”

Bakhshi also stressed that authorities will pursue offenses involving national security.

"Any criminal action intended to undermine public security, organize illegal activities or threaten national security will be dealt with within the framework of the law, and those responsible will face appropriate legal action.”