Iran's Defense Power Aims to Avert Confrontation

President Hassan Rouhani reasserted that Iran's growing military program is aimed at fending off tensions and confrontation with hostile countries.

"Our armed forces have never posed a threat to others, nor have they regarded using military force as a priority in dealing with [hostile] countries. However, we should maintain vigilance and [continue to] boost our defense power against conspiracies," he said.

Addressing a ceremony to mark National Army Day in Tehran on Tuesday, Rouhani sought to reassure neighboring countries about the Islamic Republic's military policy.

"Our power is defensive and deterrent, but not offensive. It is intended to get across the message that we defend ourselves against any aggression with a tough and resolute response," the president was quoted as saying by his official website.

"Iran's neighbors can rest assured that the defensive power of its armed forces ensures the security of all Middle Eastern countries," he said.                 

“The names of some countries’ armies are widely associated with intervention, genocide, terrorism, coup d’etat and disregard of popular demands, while Iran’s Army embodies order, discipline, faith, respect for the rule of law and commitment to upholding national interests.”

Rouhani then reviewed a massive parade showcasing the Islamic Republic’s military achievements.

Apart from Rouhani, the chiefs of the Iranian Army, Air Force and Navy, as well as the heads of the main divisions of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps were in attendance.

Among the new gears unveiled was Sayyad-3, a long-range air defense missile designed to hit high-altitude targets.

Others included S-300 air defense missile system, Zolfaqar tank, personnel carriers, cannons, a wide variety of missiles, radars, missile defense systems, speedboats, torpedoes, military vehicles and bombs.

Elsewhere, in the country’s southern and northern waters, the Navy’s warships, destroyers and frigates sailed across the Persian Gulf and the Caspian Sea for parades.