By Seyed Pezhman Madani

Iran’s pivotal role in the fight against global terrorism and its broader contributions to global stability are often misunderstood and even manipulated in international discourse, particularly in Western media.

While the Islamic Republic of Iran is frequently portrayed in a negative light, its efforts to combat terrorism, support regional stability, and contribute to global peace have been significant.

Iran’s role in curbing the spread of violent extremism, stabilizing volatile regions, and fostering diplomacy offers valuable resources for global counterterrorism efforts, providing notable benefits to the region and the world at large.

One of the most significant aspects of Iran’s contributions to global security is its consistent and active role in combating terrorism, particularly concerning groups like Daesh, al-Qaeda, and other extremist terrorist organizations.

These groups do not only pose a threat to West Asia but also have global ramifications, affecting countries in Europe, North America, and beyond. Iran's strategic actions in Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon have been crucial in preventing the expansion of transnational terrorist networks.

In Iraq and Syria, where Daesh Takfiri terrorists once posed a major threat, Iran’s military and intelligence presence was essential in dismantling the group. Cooperation between the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and the Iraqi government played a key role in eradicating the terrorist organization and preventing its further expansion into Europe and the US

Iran’s direct military intervention in the fight against Daesh significantly reduced the group's ability to launch large-scale attacks in other parts of the world, thereby enhancing global security.

The potential resurgence of such terrorist organizations poses an ongoing threat not only to West Asia but to global peace, making Iran’s involvement a crucial factor in countering their reach.

The European Union and the United States have also faced blowback from terrorist organizations that were initially created or supported by Western powers in West Asia, as former U.S. President Donald Trump previously admitted. These attacks underscore the dangers posed by radicalized elements.

Iran's strategic role in preventing the spread of terrorism cannot be overstated. By actively countering terrorist organizations within the West Asia region, Iran has helped stem the flow of foreign mercenary fighters and limit the operational capabilities of groups that might target Europe or North America.

By supporting local governments and resistance groups, Iran has also prevented these terrorist organizations from establishing strongholds where they could train and launch attacks against nations worldwide.

Furthermore, Iran’s extensive intelligence network, deeply embedded in the region, has provided valuable insights into terrorist movements and operations.

This intelligence has been shared with international actors, including Europe, China, Russia, and others, further demonstrating Iran’s crucial role in counterterrorism efforts. Despite strained diplomatic relations between the US and Iran, intelligence cooperation has undeniably contributed to greater global security, particularly in Europe, where the risk of terrorism remains high.

Iran’s approach to combating terrorism and promoting stability stands in stark contrast to the policies of some Western nations. The US and European powers have frequently relied on military interventions to address terrorism and regional instability, often resulting in prolonged conflicts and unintended consequences. The imposed wars on Iraq and Afghanistan, for example, led to significant loss of life, displacement, and regional instability, with effects that extended far beyond West Asia.

In contrast, while Iran’s approach is not without complexities, it has often focused on supporting local actors, providing intelligence, and engaging in diplomatic efforts.

By avoiding direct military intervention in many cases and instead offering strategic support to regional governments, Iran has contributed to a more sustainable approach to addressing terrorism and regional instability.

Iran’s contributions to global security extend beyond counterterrorism to include the fight against drug trafficking, a global threat with devastating consequences. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), approximately 271 million people worldwide used drugs in 2020, with opioids being the most harmful category.

Afghanistan, which produces around 85 percent of the world's opium, serves as the epicenter of this crisis. From there, narcotics are smuggled through various routes, including the Balkan Route and the Southern Route, into Europe, Africa, and other parts of the world.

Iran, sharing a long and porous border with Afghanistan and Pakistan, serves as a critical frontline defender in the global war on drug trafficking. Its strategic location makes it both a victim of the crisis and a key player in preventing the spread of narcotics.

The impact of the illicit drug trade extends beyond Iran’s borders, affecting global economies, destabilizing societies, and undermining development efforts. Iran’s anti-drug efforts contribute significantly to international stability and security.

These measures have proven effective in disrupting drug supply chains. For instance, Iranian authorities seize thousands of tons of narcotics annually, preventing them from reaching European and other international markets. In 2022 alone, Iran confiscated over 1.4 million kilograms of opiates and synthetic drugs, underscoring its pivotal role in global drug control efforts.

The fight against drug trafficking has come at a tremendous human cost for Iran. Since the early 1980s, more than 4,000 Iranian law enforcement officers and military personnel have lost their lives while confronting armed drug traffickers. Thousands more have been injured in violent clashes with heavily armed smugglers determined to protect their illicit trade.

These sacrifices highlight Iran's dedication to safeguarding not only its own citizens but also the global community from the scourge of drug addiction.

The financial burden of combating drug trafficking is equally staggering. Iran allocates substantial funds annually to securing its borders, training personnel, and acquiring the necessary equipment.

Additionally, the indirect costs associated with treating drug addiction and addressing crime-related issues further strain economic resources. Despite these challenges, Iran remains steadfast in its resolve to eliminate drug trafficking from its territory and beyond.

Despite the often-unfair portrayal of Iran in Western media, its role in combating terrorism and promoting global stability should not be underestimated.

Iran’s direct engagement in the fight against groups like Daesh, its commitment to preventing the spread of terrorism to Europe and the US, and its diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts make it a key player in global security.

While political and ideological differences may persist, acknowledging Iran’s contributions to counterterrorism and regional stability provides valuable insights that could benefit not only Europe and the United States but the entire world.

Seyed Pezhman Madani is a Tehran-based writer and researcher of foreign affairs.

Press TV’s website