Overcoming 48 Years of Sanctions Through Domestic Capacity
According to “Iran Military,” Brigadier General Reza Talaei-Nik, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, addressed students regarding the country’s progress over nearly half a century of facing oppressive sanctions. He emphasized that the Islamic Republic of Iran has successfully transformed pre-revolutionary dependencies into “self-sufficiency.”
Pointing to impressive statistics within defense industries, General Talaei-Nik stated: “Today, more than a thousand types of indigenous products and services are produced in the country. In addition to meeting strategic needs, a portion of these are exported to international markets.” He attributed these achievements to investments in specialized human capital and national willpower, demonstrating that external pressures have failed to derail the nation’s scientific progress.
Security: The Foundation for Comprehensive Progress
The Defense Ministry Spokesperson defined national power as a multi-dimensional concept, stating: “Iran’s national power is not limited solely to military hardware; it is a combination of political, military, cultural, social, scientific, and technological capabilities.”
According to him, military equipment is merely a tool for providing the security necessary for scientific, economic, and cultural development. Referring to Iran’s rising global scientific standing, General Talaei-Nik attributed these successes to national unity, adherence to leadership, and faith in internal capabilities.
A Clear Stance on Regional Conflicts
A significant portion of the spokesperson’s remarks addressed recent regional developments and conflicts. While emphasizing the Islamic Republic of Iran’s approach of welcoming peace and stability, he simultaneously underscored the country’s defensive red lines:
“The Islamic Republic of Iran has always emphasized an end to conflicts, but defending the country’s rights, security, and interests is our inherent duty. If the opposing side recognizes Iran’s conditions and legitimate rights, the path for resolving tensions is open; however, the Iranian nation will never allow its vital interests to be ignored.”
A Message to the Younger Generation: Continuing the Martyrs’ Path through Science and Innovation
Finally, addressing the country’s youth, General Talaei-Nik identified the responsibility for maintaining and enhancing national power as resting upon the shoulders of students. He stated: “Continuing the path of the martyrs is not defined solely on the military battlefield; rather, studying, acquiring skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, and working to solve the country’s problems is truly the continuation of that same jihadist path.”
He emphasized that the ultimate goal is to build a strong, independent, and advanced Iran, and the country’s future depends on the knowledge, faith, and capabilities of the next generation, who must accelerate the path of progress.