TEHRAN– The chief commander of the Iranian Army, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, held talks with the visiting Commander of Air Force and Air Defense of the Republic of Belarus, Major General Andrey Lukyanovich, in a meeting attended by several other high-ranking generals in Tehran.

The Wednesday meeting highlighted the shared interests and challenges faced by both nations, particularly in light of ongoing sanctions from the United States and NATO expansion, according to IRNA. 

Major General Mousavi underscored the common ground between Iran and Belarus, stating, "We have common threats and interests, being under the unjust sanctions of the United States and the West." He expressed gratitude for Belarus's steadfast position regarding regional issues, particularly referencing the assassination of martyr Ismail Haniya. "Belarus has a special strategic position and is a strong bulwark against NATO expansion," he emphasized, adding, "We and the countries in the region oppose NATO's expansion as well."

Reflecting on the historical context, Major General Mousavi noted the impact of unilateral sanctions on Iran since the Islamic Revolution. "We have tried to make the most of this threat and not to depend on external powers for our defense," he remarked. He recognized that Belarus faces similar challenges, stating, "The people, government, and army of Belarus are also under sanctions; however, we know that they too have their own initiatives and methods to overcome the current situation."

The Iranian Commander expressed a desire to deepen military cooperation between the two nations. "The will of the political, military, and defense officials of both countries is to develop and deepen cooperation," he stated. He referred to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's visit to Iran as a pivotal moment that laid the groundwork for enhanced relations.

Major General Lukyanovich echoed this sentiment, describing Iran as a "beautiful country with a rich history and very hospitable people." He affirmed Belarus's commitment to expanding military relations with Iran, stating, "We also seek to expand and deepen military relations and benefit from the valuable experiences of the Islamic Republic of Iran."

Both leaders emphasized their mutual opposition to American unilateralism and NATO's influence in their regions. General Mousavi highlighted the importance of sharing experiences, particularly from Tehran’s historical struggles during the Iran-Iraq war and its recent battles against terrorism. "We know that the Republic of Belarus also possesses invaluable experiences, especially in the Ukraine war," he said, advocating for collaboration that could strengthen both nations.

As discussions concluded, General Lukanoevich extended an invitation for the Iranian army commander to visit Belarus to observe its military capabilities firsthand.

Israel to soon receive 'strong, definitive' response for Haniyeh assassination

In a statement released on Wednesday, Major General Mousavi praised the appointment of Yahya Sinwar as the new political leader of Hamas. 

“The appointment of Yahya Sinwar as the new political leader of Hamas is a testament to the Palestinian fighters' commitment to resistance,” declared the military leader. “This shows the path they intend to continue treading on, leaving the Zionist regime with no hope for its own future.”

He also addressed Israel’s assassination of Sinwar’s predecessor, Ismail Haniyeh, who was killed in a Tehran guesthouse on July 31. “The Zionist regime will soon receive a strong and definitive response. There is no doubt about it.” 

Sinwar, a key architect of Hamas's successful Operation al-Aqsa Storm last October, is seen as a strong and determined leader who will continue the fight against Israeli occupation. His appointment has been met with widespread support from Palestinian resistance groups and their allies across West Asia.