Iran air defence forces on full alert, senior commander says

Iran’s air defence forces remain at the highest level of operational readiness and are fully prepared to protect the country’s airspace, a senior military commander said on Tuesday.

According to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Brigadier General Ali Reza Elhami, commander of the Joint Air Defence Unit at the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, made the remarks during a visit to the Army’s northwestern air defence zone on the occasion of Air Defence Martyrs’ Day.

Elhami praised the performance of Iran’s air defence personnel, describing their role as a source of national pride.

“The courage and bravery of the Army and Revolutionary Guard air defence personnel throughout the Islamic Republic of Iran are a source of pride,” he said.

“Today, the operational units stand with full strength and capability to defend the nation’s skies,” Elhami said.

The commander also referred to what he described as the challenges faced by Iran throughout its history, saying the country had consistently resisted external pressure.

“The path of truth has always been accompanied by challenges,” he said, adding that the Iranian people have continued to stand against injustice and oppression in response to the guidance of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Elhami said the sacrifices and achievements of Iran’s armed forces provide strong support for the country’s defence capabilities and national security.

His remarks come amid continuing regional tensions and heightened military readiness across the Middle East following months of conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States.