Iran issued a strong warning that any new aggression against it would be met with an “unprecedented response,” according to statements by one of its top military commanders, Major General Hossein Salami of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). These statements have further escalated tensions across an already volatile Middle Eastern region.
General Salami made this declaration during a televised interview on Wednesday, noting that Iran’s military capabilities have advanced considerably and any attempt at undermining Iran’s sovereignty or national security would provoke swift and unprecedented response. “The Iranian people and their armed forces stand united, ready to respond forcefully against any aggression that threatens our sovereignty or national security,” General Salami declared before adding that its defense strategy has now become even stronger than ever.
This statement comes amid rising tensions between Iran and various world powers, particularly the US, Israel and some Arab nations, particularly over Iran’s controversial nuclear program and regional influence through proxy groups in Syria, Iraq Lebanon and Yemen. Iran has recently been targeted with cyberattacks, drone strikes and economic sanctions by these same powers; while they have also launched cyberattacks on its targets.
Salami’s remarks were widely seen as a warning against the United States and its allies in the region, given that Washington has maintained a significant military presence near Iran’s borders with regular military exercises and an increase in naval patrols through the Strait of Hormuz. As a result, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), one of its powerful branches, has been on high alert amid these developments, particularly given continued U.S. sanctions aimed at targeting Iran’s oil exports and nuclear enrichment activities.
General Salami reiterated Iran does not seek war, yet would respond forcefully should its sovereignty be threatened. Salami noted Iran’s increasing technological advancements in missile and drone technology which it has tested recently and noted that according to military analysts Iran is becoming more self-reliant when developing precision-guided weapons to strengthen its defensive capability.
These comments have provoked various reactions worldwide. Western diplomats have voiced concerns over the possibility for further escalation following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal in 2018 and subsequent sanctions, and criticism that Iran’s military buildup may spark new conflicts in an already volatile region.
Russia and China, two allies of Iran, have expressed their support for Tehran’s right to self-defense while calling on foreign powers to exercise restraint. Both nations also call for diplomatic solutions to ease tensions in the region.
As events continue to develop, many are closely watching Salami’s warning to see whether it prompts any shifts in regional power dynamics and how international communities reacts to Iran’s more assertive posture.