Tehran: Comprehensive sanctions and pressures imposed by Iran's adversaries failed to hinder the country's progress and instead helped drive it toward defense self-sufficiency, sustainable deterrence, and strategic strength, Defense Ministry spokesperson Brigadier General Reza Talaei-Nik said on Tuesday.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Talaei-Nik emphasized that the late Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, had viewed science, technology, and self-reliance as the pillars of national power. His strategic approach to scientific and defense development has enabled Iran to establish an effective indigenous deterrent capability.

Talaei-Nik highlighted that Iran has successfully developed and manufactured a wide range of defense equipment using domestic scientific and technological expertise. This progress has been supported by local specialists and neutralized the impact of sanctions, transforming Iran into an exporter of defense equipment.

The spokesperson further noted that the experience from the recent US-Israeli-imposed war had fortified Iran's defense capabilities. Additionally, the large turnout at Ayatollah Khamenei's funeral underscored the public's support for the country's political system and the path he had charted.