Iran Army Chief Marks Sacred Defence Week, Vows Readiness to Defend Independence

Major General Amir Hatami, commander-in-chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, issued a message on Monday marking the start of Sacred Defence Week. In his message, he described the occasion as a reminder of the Iranian nation's epic in safeguarding the country's independence, dignity, and territorial integrity. He said it reflects the faith, sacrifice, and struggle of men and women who confronted enemies' plots with steadfastness and self-sacrifice, and thwarted them.

Hatami stated that years after that defence, the Iranian nation and the armed forces continue along the same path, relying on the valuable experience of the Sacred Defence. He noted that they have displayed other manifestations of authority, cohesion, and readiness in the 12-day and 40-day imposed wars, proving that any aggression against Iran's security and territorial integrity will be met with a decisive and regret-inducing response.

The commander said that although the recent imposed wars differed in form, tools, and requirements from the Sacred Defence, they shared one truth: the Iranian nation once again stood united against the enemy's aggression and excessive demands. The armed forces, relying on faith, experience, and indigenous capability, defended the country's existence and territorial integrity. He quoted that "Sacred Defence taught us that reliance on faith and national will, the unity and insight of the people, and the capability of the armed forces are a solid foundation for the country's security and authority."

Hatami added that today, the fruit of years of struggle, self-belief, and defence self-sufficiency is visible in the indigenous capabilities of the armed forces and their readiness to defend the country's skies, land, and waters. He said this achievement resulted from trust in domestic forces and the struggle of successive generations. He affirmed that the armed forces, relying on God, under the command of the Commander-in-Chief, and with the support of the Iranian nation, stand with full vigilance and readiness and will not hesitate for a moment in defending Iran's independence, security, and territorial integrity. According to Mehr News, the message was issued to commemorate Sacred Defence Week.