Ayatollah Khamenei Urges Enhanced Military Readiness, Slams Western Hypocrisy on Defense

Iranian Leader emphasizes both hardware and ideological preparedness in meeting with military commanders

TEHRAN — Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei called on the Iranian Armed Forces to strengthen their capabilities, while denouncing the double standards of global powers that possess lethal weaponry yet prevent others from developing their own defense systems.

The remarks were made during a meeting with Iranian military commanders on the occasion of the Iranian New Year, held in Tehran on Sunday, April 13. Ayatollah Khamenei, who also serves as the commander-in-chief of the Iranian Armed Forces, used the opportunity to emphasize the vital role of the Armed Forces in safeguarding national sovereignty.

“The Armed Forces Are the Nation’s Fortress”

In his address, the Leader described the military as the country’s fortress and refuge against any aggressor. He underscored the importance of maintaining “maximum preparedness,” calling for both “hardware and software vigilance” to fulfill national duties.

“Progress Frustrates the Enemies”

Ayatollah Khamenei acknowledged Iran’s ongoing progress in various sectors, which, he said, has angered the country's ill-wishers. At the same time, he recognized existing shortcomings, particularly in the economic sector, and urged continuous efforts to overcome them.

The Leader elaborated on what he termed “hardware preparedness,” which includes advancements in armaments, structural upgrades, and improvements in the livelihood of military personnel. He paired this with a strong emphasis on “software preparedness”, a reference to faith, determination, and belief in the justness of their mission.

“In addition to hardware preparedness, software preparedness — that is, faith in their goals and mission, and certainty in the justness of their path — is extremely important, especially given the hostile efforts aimed at undermining it,” he said.

Western Hypocrisy Called Out

Ayatollah Khamenei also condemned what he described as the double standards of global powers. “They permit themselves to possess the most severe and catastrophic types of weapons while deeming defensive progress by others as impermissible,” he said, according to khamenei.ir.

He stressed that “certainty, faith, determination, courage, and trust in God must exist to the fullest extent in the Armed Forces,” noting that many historically dominant armies have fallen due to a lack of these qualities.

Independence Provokes Enmity

According to the Leader, it is not merely the label “Islamic Republic” that provokes hostility, but rather Iran’s resolve to be Muslim, independent, and self-reliant. “To not rely on others for its dignity causes the anger of its enemies,” he stated.

Preserving Ideological Readiness Across Society

He further called on media institutions, particularly the national broadcaster (IRIB), to contribute to safeguarding the nation’s ideological resilience. “Preservation and enhancement of software preparedness in society require the efforts of various sectors,” he said.

Youthful Enthusiasm a Sign of Strength

Ayatollah Khamenei lauded the “indescribable enthusiasm” of thousands of motivated young Iranians ready to engage in fields that demand perseverance and sacrifice, citing it as an indicator of the country’s spiritual and ideological strength.

Appreciation for Families of Soldiers

He also extended New Year greetings to all members of the Armed Forces and their families, recognizing the important role that spouses and families play in supporting soldiers in their missions.

Highlighting Resistance Across the Region

At the beginning of the meeting, Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, reviewed developments in Iran and the region during the Iranian calendar year 1403 (2024–2025). He pointed to the global awakening over Palestine and hailed the historic resistance of the people of Gaza and Lebanon against the Zionist regime’s crimes.

General Baqeri also paid tribute to the martyred fighters and commanders of the resistance, praising their sacrifices as “proud peaks in the battle against oppression.” (ARN)

Sourc: Tasnim News