TEHRAN – Grand Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi has called for a constant development of Iran’s defense power to deter enemies from taking a military action against the country, Tasnim reported on Tuesday.

In a meeting with Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri, the Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi said, “We are not after attacking any country, and are not belligerent and expansionist either, but we need such (military) equipment to protect and defend ourselves.”

He added that because of Iran’s military power, the enemies have abandoned military option and instead are backing terrorists against Iran.

MH/PA