Iran deploys additional missile and drone units at borders

Iran is reinforcing its borders with missile and drone units amid rising regional tensions, according to its ground forces commander.

Eleven combat units were also stationed at the borders to ensure the country's "permanent security," ground forces chief Brigadier General Kiumars Heydari said in an interview with Iran's IRNA state news agency on Saturday.

However, Heydari also denied that there was a distinct external threat to the country.

Three months after the start of the Gaza war, tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate. Observers are especially concerned about the situation in the Red Sea, where the conflict may see a major escalation.

Yemen's Shiite Houthi militia, which is supported by Iran, has repeatedly attacked commercial ships with an alleged Israeli connection in recent weeks. Supported by Britain and other Western governments, the US has responded by bombing the Houthis' positions in Yemen.