Ayat. Ahmad Marvi met with senior commanders of the ground, air, naval, and air-defense units at the Northeast Regional Headquarters, honoring the memory of national martyrs, including the martyred Leader.
“The founder of the Islamic Republic designated April 18 as Army Day”, he said, adding: “This meeting is meant to offer congratulations and express gratitude to the armed forces on this occasion.”
AQR’s Custodian stated that personnel from the Army, IRGC, police, and Basij played decisive roles in the Ramadan war. “If any pride exists in the world today, it belongs to Iranian forces alone.”
He said Iranian soldiers resisted the strongest army in the world: “If a medal of pride is to be awarded, it must be given to Iranian military personnel, and the mark of disgrace must be placed upon America.”
Referencing regional history, he noted: “Egypt, Syria, and Jordan, despite broad Arab support, lost territories to Israel within six days in the 1960s. Today America and Israel jointly attacked Iran and failed to achieve any of their objectives.”
Ayat. Marvi went on to say: “Iranian history shows repeated territorial losses over 250 years, whether through war in the Qajar period or foreign pressure in the Pahlavi era”.
“Sacred Defense was the only conflict in which no part of Iran’s territory was separated; this outcome resulted from bravery and sacrifice”, he asserted.
The top official contrasted this with World War II, when the military collapsed quickly, leading to famine and devastation.
He asserted that recent events shattered America’s global prestige. “Victory in war is not measured by damage but by whether goals are achieved. America began the conflict with clear aims and failed to meet any of them.”
He maintained: “Iran, rich in natural resources and human talent, will emerge from the conflict as a respected and powerful nation”.
Ayat. Marvi said national leadership devoted extensive time to strengthening the armed forces before the conflict, increasing weekly meetings with military commanders after the 12-day war.
He stated: “The strength and decisive response of the armed forces were the product of those preparations.”
Head of AQR said Iranian forces differ from American forces in loyalty and courage, adding “America failed because Iranian forces seek martyrdom, and the people possess a deep culture of sacrifice.”
At the meeting’s outset, the regional headquarters commander presented a report on wartime activities and future defensive measures. Other senior officers also outlined operational achievements and upcoming programs.