WANA (Dec 15) – Major General Hossein Salami, Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), reaffirmed Iran’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its security, independence, national interests, and territorial integrity. “Iran is not a land that foreign powers can approach with ill intentions. This is the land of men and women of jihad,” Salami stated.

 

Speaking at a ceremony, Salami said, “The Zionists will pay a heavy price. They will be buried in Syrian soil, but such actions require time.”

 

Highlighting the significance of jihad in the Islamic world, Salami remarked, “The Islamic world today is a battleground of resistance, where the happiness of Muslims lies in their struggles. The young mujahideen possess the faith, zeal, and determination to defeat the Zionists, and they will achieve this goal.”

 

 

Lessons from the Sacred Defense

Reflecting on Iran’s eight-year war with Iraq , known as the Sacred Defense, Salami emphasized its enduring impact. “If not for the Sacred Defense, we wouldn’t have the strength to stand against global arrogance. It was a training ground for resistance, embedding the language of defiance in our society—a language that continues to inspire sacrifices and heroics.”

 

He paid homage to the sacrifices of Iran’s soldiers, stating, “Now we understand the value of those who, under barrages of bullets and across treacherous terrain, reclaimed our land step by step. They are the pillars of our independence and dignity.”

 

A Warning from Syria’s Crisis

Salami drew parallels between the current turmoil in Syria and the lessons of resistance. “Foreign powers, like ravenous wolves, have descended upon Syria, carving it apart—Zionists in the south, others in the north and east—while its people face an uncertain future. This tragedy underlines the critical need for steadfast resistance.”

 

He praised Iran’s role in supporting Syria, emphasizing, “Our presence there was to uphold the dignity of Muslims, not to annex land or pursue selfish interests. The moment Syria’s government faltered, chaos engulfed the country. We learned that without resistance, a nation can quickly fall prey to foreign aggression.”

 

 

On the sidelines of the ceremony, Salami underscored the relevance of the late General Qassem Soleimani’s teachings in combating division and defending the unity of Muslim nations. “The doctrine of Martyr Soleimani, symbolizing resistance and steadfastness, remains the key to thwarting efforts to fragment nations. Muslim nations must stand firm and defend their identity,” he stated.

 

He concluded by urging the youth to carry forward Soleimani’s mission: “General Soleimani remains a living symbol of resistance in the hearts of Muslim youth. We must ensure his legacy endures, preventing non-Muslims from dictating the fate of the Islamic world.”