WANA (Mar 01) – Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, emphasized the need to strengthen Iran’s defense capabilities, stating that the force has reached a level of power that enables it to deliver a strong response to any threat.

 

Referring to historical efforts to defend Iran’s territorial integrity, he recalled the colonial presence of the Portuguese in the region for 117 years, which was ended by Iranian resistance.

 

Tangsiri highlighted the IRGC Navy’s role in securing the region, asserting that Iran is no longer dependent on foreign powers and now relies on domestic expertise and knowledge-based companies for defense needs.

 

He reiterated Iran’s commitment to protecting the Persian Gulf and its 19 strategic islands, including the Greater and Lesser Tunbs and Abu Musa, stressing that these islands are an inseparable part of Iran.

 

The commander also underlined Iran’s responsibility in safeguarding regional energy resources, recalling enemy attacks on key oil fields during the Iran-Iraq War but affirming that production never ceased.

 

Criticizing Western interference, he noted that the U.S. and the U.K. have historically sought to undermine Iran but asserted that the country has achieved self-sufficiency in naval defense.

 

Tangsiri honored Iran’s martyrs and declared that the nation, relying on its brave youth, will continue on the path of strength and independence, ensuring the protection of its maritime borders.