Iran says its military is ‘stronger’ now than when the war against US, Israel began in February

TEHRAN, Nov 7 - Iranian state media reported on Saturday that the country's military is "stronger" and more motivated than when the United States and Israel initiated hostilities in February. Mohammad Akraminia, an army spokesman, told state news agency IRNA that the armed forces, having gained experience from direct confrontations with the US and the Israeli regime, are now on higher alert and possess greater motivation, commitment, and self-confidence.

The ongoing conflict, which began with a wave of strikes by the US and Israel in late February, remains deadlocked for months. Tehran has been attempting to control passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway that typically handles about one-fifth of global oil supplies. Akraminia stated that Iranian forces maintain control over the strategic passage and will keep it closed until the United States accedes to Tehran's demands.

According to him, the response of the armed forces will be immediate, effective, and without geographical limitations, as directed by the Supreme Leader.

Recently, the United States confirmed new strikes on Iran, following reports of attacks on Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. Tasnim news agency later reported that two missiles had struck Qeshm, though there has been no official information yet on the extent of the damage. Iranian state television confirmed two explosions on the island, although it did not specify whether the island was targeted.

The Iranian army claimed early Saturday that its air defenses had "struck and destroyed" a US drone flying over the island, but it did not confirm whether the island was indeed attacked.