Iranian ground forces begin major military manoeuvre

Tehran (dpa) - Iran's ground forces began a major two-day exercise on Friday, as tensions run high in the Middle East.

Four combat units are taking part in the manoeuvre in the central province of Isfahan, Iran's Tasnim news agency reported.

The exercise aims to test the operational readiness of infantry,armoured vehicles, missiles and also electronic warfare. Themanoeuvre is being conducted 'in the face of recent threats,' the report said.

The manoeuvre also aims to test new weapons and the deterrence capability of ground forces, Tasnim said.

The last two phases will train coastal defence manoeuvres, night operations and then counter-attacks, in case of attacks in the region.

Concerns are growing that the current war between Hamas and Israel could spread throughout the region. Washington and Tehran have each warned the other of the dangers of a broader conflict.