Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has vowed that the country’s enemies will not succeed in harassing the Iranian nation until they are fully frustrated. He stressed that true national strength lies not in missiles or aircraft, but in the willpower and resilience of the people.
Khamenei called on Iranians to demonstrate their unity and determination during grand rallies marking the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. He said such displays of national strength would serve to disappoint adversaries.
In a historic move, Khamenei did not attend the annual meeting with Air Force commandos on February 8 for the first time in 37 years. The meeting commemorates the pledge of allegiance given to Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini by Air Force officers before the 1979 overthrow of the Shah’s regime.
This year, General Abdolrahim Mousavi, Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces, represented Khamenei at the ceremony, according to Arab media reports. Since coming to power in 1989, Khamenei had attended the event every year, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Observers say Khamenei’s absence comes amid escalating tensions between Iran and the United States. The U.S. has strengthened its military presence in the Gulf and broader Middle East. Analysts suggest that concerns over a potential U.S. attack or sensitive national security issues may have prompted the decision.
Iran has issued warnings that any U.S. military strike could drag the entire Middle East into conflict. The U.S. has deployed warships, aircraft carriers, and surveillance planes to the region. This move has further heightened regional tensions.
Khamenei’s remarks highlight the Iranian leadership’s focus on national unity and resilience. They also underline Tehran’s warning to external powers not to underestimate the country’s defensive capabilities.
