TEHRAN (Defapress) - Major General Amir Hatami, the Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, addressed a gathering of senior commanders and officials of the Army Ground Force, stating: "The Zionist regime is a stubborn enemy, and during the 12-day imposed war, we witnessed part of its crimes and brutality against the Iranian nation. However, this enemy is well-known to us, and over the past two years in Gaza, and throughout the wretched, less-than-80-year existence of this criminal regime, we have repeatedly seen its savagery and barbarity in its aggressions against other nations."
Major General Hatami added: "Despite enduring some losses, including the martyrdom of beloved commanders, great scientists, and honorable compatriots in this imposed war, by divine grace and through the bravery of our warriors and the steadfastness of our people, we emerged victorious in this unequal confrontation and by inflicting heavy damage on the enemy, we thwarted its objectives."
The Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Army emphasized: "The missile and drone capabilities of the Islamic system remain strong and operationally ready. Just as we continued our strikes until the final moments before the enemy was forced into a ceasefire, we will persist with even greater determination in our defense industry, science and technology, and all other fields."
He further noted: "The global arrogance’s opposition to the Islamic Republic of Iran stems from our religious and patriotic commitments, as well as Iran’s progress toward the peaks of knowledge. Today, thank God, all branches of the Armed Forces and the four divisions of the Army are advancing with greater resolve than ever toward scientific and technological heights while enhancing combat readiness for comprehensive defense."
Referring to the statements of the Supreme Leader, who said, "We must consider even one percent of a threat as a hundred percent threat," Hatami stressed: "We must not underestimate the enemy or assume its threats have ended."
He continued: "The enemy, deluded into thinking it could harm the Islamic system, plotted various schemes. But the people of Islamic Iran, with extraordinary unity, delivered a resounding slap to them. The determination, solidarity, and unity among the people, the Armed Forces, and officials on the battlefield were unbelievable to the enemies and many observers. Major and inspiring movements, such as the 'Fridays of Wrath and Victory' and the magnificent funeral processions of the martyrs, were examples of the will and solidarity of a great, epic-making nation. Under the wise and courageous leadership of the Imam Khamenei, they defended the territorial integrity and independence of the country more powerfully than ever. The Zionist regime, witnessing the miraculous grandeur of Iran’s resistance, realized it had committed a strategic mistake."
The Commander-in-Chief of the Army also highlighted the readiness of the Army Ground Force, stating: "Throughout the history of the Islamic Revolution, the Army Ground Force has shone brightly in confronting counter-revolutionary groups in the western regions of the country and during the Sacred Defense, earning praise from Imam Khomeini (RA) and the noble people. In later periods, it has proven itself in every test, whether repelling threats, aiding the people, or responding to emergencies, always recognized as a skilled, trained, capable, and people-centric force. It has repeatedly been commended by the Supreme Leader."
Hatami stressed the importance of constant vigilance in defending the country’s borders, honoring the martyr of sovereignty, Brigadier General Ali Hossein Mohammadi, the valiant commander of the 71st Abu Dhar Brigade, who was martyred along with several other brave members of the Ground Force while safeguarding the western borders. He stated: "Thanks to the efforts and sacrifices of the Ground Force commanders and warriors, its preparedness and capabilities today are incomparable to previous eras. During the 12-day war, the Ground Force acted decisively, ensuring no breach of our border security."
He emphasized: "Through planned programs and strategies, the Army Ground Force has achieved significant progress in enhancing combat power, mobility, and operational-intelligence capabilities."
In conclusion, the Army Commander-in-Chief remarked: "Of course, during these 12 days, there are many untold stories of the unparalleled bravery of our air defense forces, the invaluable efforts of the Ground Force, the sacrifices of the Air Force, and the Navy. In due time, some of these will be shared with the noble people of Iran."