Tehran: Spokesperson of the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia, has described strong government support for the Armed Forces during the country's recent conflicts with the US and the Israeli regime as a key factor in maintaining military capabilities, while saying the wars have strengthened national unity and created greater geopolitical awareness among Iranians.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Akraminia in an exclusive interview on Sunday, stated that the government had adequately met the Armed Forces' budgetary and financial requirements despite Iran's economic difficulties. He emphasized that cooperation between the government and Armed Forces remains strong, highlighting that continued support is essential under the country's current security conditions.
Akraminia identified strengthened national cohesion as one of the major outcomes of the recent war, noting that Iranians had rallied around the country, its national interests, and the leadership. He also highlighted a new geopolitical awakening, particularly greater public awareness of the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and its potential influence on Iran's foreign policy and regional position.
The Army spokesperson mentioned that the recent conflicts had provided Iran's Armed Forces with valuable operational experience and increased their confidence. He pointed out that the wars had exposed the aggressive nature of the United States and the Israeli regime to a wider international audience, while noting that Washington's credibility as a major international power had declined in regional and global affairs.
Akraminia explained that Iran's military doctrine had gradually shifted from a predominantly defensive posture toward a more proactive approach during the two recent wars. He stressed that this shift did not necessarily mean initiating conflicts, but rather maintaining the capability to respond rapidly and forcefully to aggression. He said recent operations had demonstrated Iran's ability to conduct broader responses and, in certain circumstances, preemptive actions.
The spokesperson also highlighted recent appointments of senior military commanders as evidence of Iran's determination to strengthen national defense. He said the new commanders' extensive military backgrounds were intended to ensure effective leadership and send a clear message to both domestic and foreign audiences that the Islamic Republic remained committed to defending its territory and national interests.
He mentioned that the Army had used the current ceasefire period to rebuild damaged systems, introduce new capabilities, and update training based on lessons learned from the recent conflicts. Akraminia pointed out that Iran is relying increasingly on domestic defense industries and military technologies to enhance its readiness and deterrence capabilities.
Additionally, Akraminia discussed the recent merger of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters with the General Staff of the Armed Forces, which was aimed at streamlining command structures, accelerating decision-making, and improving coordination. He described unified command and faster responses to emerging threats as important advantages of the restructuring.
Regarding three Iranian Sukhoi-24 pilots whose whereabouts remain unclear, he stated that Iran is pursuing the matter through legal and diplomatic channels with Qatar and international counterparts. He called for greater responsibility and transparency from Qatar in clarifying their status in accordance with international conventions.