Nine Killed in Courthouse Attack in Iran’s Sistan-Baluchestan Province

ZAHEDAN, IRAN, July 26, 2025 – A deadly assault left nine people dead and at least 13 injured at a courthouse in the southeastern Iranian province of Sistan-Baluchestan on Saturday, Iranian authorities confirmed. The attack was claimed by the Sunni militant group Jaish al-Adl, amid ongoing sectarian unrest in this impoverished region bordering Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Gunmen reportedly opened fire and used grenades during the assault on the judiciary center in Zahedan, the provincial capital. Initial reports indicate that five civilians were killed, including a mother and child, as well as several attackers who engaged security forces in a prolonged firefight.

Iranian media and officials described the event as a “terrorist attack,” blaming Jaish al-Adl, a group composed mainly of ethnic Baloch members. The group, which seeks greater autonomy and rights for the Baloch population, has claimed responsibility for previous attacks on Iranian security forces and infrastructure in the area.

Sistan-Baluchestan has long experienced violent clashes between Iranian government forces and various armed groups. Its proximity to the borders of Pakistan and Afghanistan, coupled with dire economic conditions and political marginalization, has contributed to persistent unrest and the rise of militant activity.

The Iranian government has pledged to investigate the attack thoroughly and increase security measures to prevent further violence. The region remains tense as authorities search for possible accomplices and work to restore calm following the tragic incident