In his videoconference and virtual address during a session to review the qualification of the proposed minister of defense in Tehran on Sunday, Pezeshkian emphasized, “In our meetings held with the ministers and leaders of various countries, they have appreciated the courage, dignity and power of the Iranian Armed Forces.”
Commemorating the name and memory of martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, martyrs of the eight years of the Sacred Defense (Iraqi imposed war against Iran in 1980-1988) and also those who were martyred during 40-day war imposed by the US against Iran [Ramadan War], martyred schoolchildren and also former Iran’s Defense Minister Major General Aziz Nasirzadeh, President Pezeshkian extolled the braveries of the powerful Armed Forces of the country.
During deliberations on confirmation of Akhlaghi as the country's next defense minister on Sunday, the chief executive said the nominee’s academic qualifications and professional record within the Defense Ministry made him well suited to further strengthen the Islamic Republic’s defensive capabilities.
Akhlaghi’s qualifications “are beyond question,” Pezeshkian said, pointing to the former’s collaboration with prominent figures across the nation’s defense industry, such as martyred senior Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) commanders, Brigadiers General Hassan Tehrani-Moqaddam and Amir-Ali Hajizadeh.
The collaboration “demonstrates his (Akhlaghi’s) efforts and commitment to serving the Islamic Revolution,” the president said, describing his experience as an asset at a time when the Islamic Republic needs specialized expertise to further bolster its defensive might.
He pointed to Akhlaghi’s having long been on enemies’ sanctions lists as proof of his contribution to the country’s defense industry.
Reiterating Iran’s commitment to territorial defense, he said the country has no intention of invading other nations, but would respond forcefully to any aggression.
“We have not attacked any country, nor do we intend to invade any territory. However, in the face of any aggression, we will stand firm with strength and courage, even at the cost of our lives,” the president stated.
Pezeshkian also seized this opportunity to thank the powerful Armed Forces of the country in the course of defending the country in the face of US and Israel aggression, reiterating that self-sacrifices and extreme power of the Armed Forces wondered the world.
Stressing the role of the country’s defensive capabilities in countering external threats, Pezeshkian referred to his meetings and discussions with officials from various nations, adding, "During foreign visits and in meetings with ministers and heads of state from different countries, they admired power, dignity, and stature of our armed forces."
Stating the excellent performance of the Armed Forces in defending the country has had a significant impact across the region, the president added, "The defense showcased by the brave Armed Forces, and the resilience they demonstrated, have left the countries of the region astonished. This defense has been a source of pride for us within the international community, and nations across the globe as well as those in the region.”
Pezeshkian pointed to the role of experts and scientists working in the defense industry sector in improving the country's military power, noting, "The proposed defense minister has a brilliant record in defense industry of the country. His effort [Akhlaghi] along with the endeavors of martyred scientists like Fakhrizadeh and Tehrani Moghaddam, have made the country's defense power reach a position where foreign powers, despite having extensive facilities and equipment, do not dare to invade Iran easily.”
MNA/ 6981211
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