Imam Sayyed Ali Khamenei Emphasizes Iran’s Military Strength, Noting It Instills Fear Among Adversaries

Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, has commended the widespread public participation in rallies held nationwide on Monday to mark the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. He remarked that President Masoud Pezeshkian’s “clear and decisive” address effectively capped the significant popular demonstrations.

During a meeting on Wednesday, the Leader addressed a gathering of scientists, experts, and officials from Iran’s defense sector, alongside several families of martyrs associated with the nation’s defense industry.

Ayatollah Khamenei has characterized the February 10 events marking Bahman 22 as among the most remarkable celebrations of the Islamic Revolution to date. He praised the rallies as a significant “popular uprising” that stood resilient against the extensive propaganda efforts aimed at undermining the Revolution.

On Monday, citizens nationwide mobilized in a significant demonstration, taking to the streets, voicing slogans, and articulating their perspectives through various media outlets. This widespread activity was characterized as a popular uprising and a substantial national movement, according to reports. The rallies, described as conveying a message of unity, underscored a collective sentiment across the country.

The Leader emphasized that the involvement of young individuals and the widespread participation throughout the nation, even in villages enduring harsh cold and challenging weather conditions, sent a resounding “message of unity” from the Iranian populace.

Ayatollah Khamenei has highlighted the remarkable turnout, describing it as an “extraordinary” demonstration by the Iranian people of their “identity, dignity, strength, and resilience” in response to “foolish threats” frequently directed at them.

“The significant public demonstrations on Bahman 22 were reinforced by the impactful and unequivocal statements from the respected president, who addressed the concerns of the populace and expressed essential viewpoints,” he stated.

“I consistently remind my audience, particularly the young individuals to whom I hold a strong commitment, of the importance of timely action. The Iranian nation exemplified this on Monday by responding appropriately at the precise moment required. They made their presence felt at exactly the right time.”

In advance of the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei spent an hour touring the Eghtedar-1403 exhibition, where he observed the latest advancements and capabilities demonstrated by the nation’s defense industry scientists and experts.

The exhibition showcased cutting-edge equipment and innovative technologies in the fields of air defense, ballistic and cruise missiles, precision-guided munitions, space technology, unmanned aerial vehicles, aviation, naval vessels, and energy systems.

In remarks pertaining to the exhibition, the Leader emphasized the critical importance of national defense and securing the country. He asserted that Iran’s defensive capabilities have gained substantial recognition, earning admiration from allies and instilling fear in adversaries, thereby establishing a valuable asset for the nation.

Ayatollah Khamenei recounted an era during which international powers steadfastly declined to provide Iran with critical defense equipment, despite Iran’s willingness to pay exorbitant prices.

He observed that the very nations which once refused to sell military equipment to Iran are now urging the country to halt its own arms sales to other nations. He highlighted the considerable shift from a previous stance of “we won’t sell to you” to a current request of “don’t sell to others,” attributing this transformation to the “efforts of Iranian scientists and the sharp minds of young specialists.”

The Leader emphasized Iran’s significant progress in its defense sector, noting that despite enduring international sanctions, the nation has advanced to a stage where its young innovators are capable of developing superior domestic versions of any withheld parts or equipment.