Iranian forces ‘stronger’ than at beginning of war, says army spokesman
The comment follows reports of US strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian forces have grown stronger and more determined since the United States and Israel initiated hostilities in February, according to an army spokesman, Iranian state media reported on Saturday. Mohammad Akraminia, speaking to the state news agency IRNA, stated that the Islamic Republic's armed forces are now more alert and possess greater motivation, commitment, and self-confidence.
The conflict, which began with a wave of strikes by the US and Israel in late February, has been ongoing for months. Tehran has sought to restrict passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway that typically facilitates one-fifth of global oil trade. Akraminia confirmed that Iranian forces maintain control over the strategic passage and vowed to keep it closed until the US addresses Tehran's demands.
The Supreme Leader has ordered an immediate, effective, and unrestricted response from Iran's armed forces, according to Akraminia. Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump announced new strikes against Iran following reports of attacks on Iran's Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz. Tasnim news agency reported two missile strikes on the island, while Iranian state television claimed two explosions occurred there.
The Iranian army also claimed it had destroyed a US drone flying over the island, though it did not specify whether that attack took place.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 2 other outlets
- Iranian forces ‘stronger’ than at beginning of war, says army spokesman freemalaysiatoday.com
- Iranian forces on higher alert, stronger than before war, spokesman says middleeasteye.net
