Iran's regular army has begun a two-day ground and air military exercise aimed at upgrading its combat readiness against possible attacks.

State television showed troops parachuting from helicopters close to the Iraqi border, near the towns of Sarpol-e Zahab and Qasr-e Shirin.

The war games are taking place amid escalating tensions between Iran and the West over Iran's disputed nuclear program.

Iranian naval commanders also met Tuesday with leaders in Sudan to discuss joint training exercises in the wake of explosions at one of their weapons factory. Sudan has blamed Israel for an aircraft that bombed the structure last Wednesday. 

In the meantime, Israel has hinted it may take military action if talks fail to thwart Iran and stop its uranium enrichment program.

The United States and its allies accuse Iran of seeking nuclear weapons, a charge Tehran denies.