Iran Upgrades Air Defenses; Commander Accuses U.S., Israel of Failure

Tehran — Brigadier General Hassan Zadeh, a senior commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said the United States and Israel have failed to achieve their strategic objectives against Iran and that Tehran remains determined to strengthen its defensive posture. He made the remarks during a visit to the upgraded air-defense battalion of the 27th Mohammad Rasoolullah Division, where officials inspected modern missile-defense systems and radar upgrades.
Amid rising tensions across the Middle East and heightened criticism from the U.S. and Israel over Iran’s nuclear program and its support for regional groups, General Hassan Zadeh emphasized that Iran’s defense strategy is wholly defensive and precautionary, and that no external power can impose its will on the country. He said popular support and the comprehensive preparedness of the Basij volunteer forces have transformed Iran into a significant regional and global power.
According to the report, the military visit aimed at renewing air-defense systems and ensuring deployment of advanced weaponry, highlighting Iran’s efforts to maintain and continually improve its military capabilities. General Hassan Zadeh warned that adversaries should acknowledge their failures and refrain from future military aggression, or face a response that would be “extremely severe, decisive and destructive.” He added that Iranian forces remain on full alert 24 hours a day and are fully prepared to deal with any dangerous situation.
During the visit, General Hassan Zadeh praised the role of Basij volunteers and said the strong bond between the public and the armed forces forms an impregnable barrier against enemies. He also noted that the capabilities demonstrated were only a portion of the 27th Division’s overall defensive strength and that Tehran retains additional capabilities that remain undisclosed.