TEHRAN – The chief commander of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has declared that Iran is at a pivotal point in its history, noting the country is capable of confronting global powers and imposing its will.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the First National Hope Media Cup on Sunday, Major General Hossein Salami reiterated that Iran has reached a significant historical milestone. 

“Daily reports now highlight several national achievements in advanced technologies, a testament to the country's progress,” he noted.

Salami cautioned that Iran’s adversaries aim to distort the country’s progress, but he praised the nation's ability to turn threats into opportunities. He asserted that without significant enemies and threats, Iran would not have the ambition necessary to reach this level of production and design.

The IRGC chief commander also emphasized the crucial role of the media in shaping public opinion. He noted that the media influences perceptions of reality, raises awareness of events and trends, and fosters political insight, particularly in times when adversaries aim to keep societies uninformed.

Salami highlighted the continuous and critical role of the media in the battle between truth and falsehood. He stated that media could transform a tactical act into a strategic reality, underlining its importance in the modern era.

Reflecting on the True Promise Operation, Salami described it as a targeted strike aimed at pivotal points with limited missiles and drones. “The operation intended to challenge the hub of arrogance and its political stronghold,” he added.

The commander stressed that the media can be a beacon of hope in battles. “While adversaries attempt to dim the flames of hope and halt Iran's progress, reality has often defied their expectations,” he commented.

Salami concluded by urging the media to join in amplifying Iran's achievements, noting that combined efforts can create unparalleled global influence.

On April 13, Iran targeted the occupied Palestinian territories with a barrage of drones and missiles. The retaliatory strikes, dubbed Operation True Promise inflicted damage on Israeli military bases across the occupied lands.

The retaliatory strikes came after the Israeli attack on April 1 against the Iranian consulate in Damascus, located next to the embassy building in Damascus’s Mezzeh district.

The airstrike killed two senior Iranian military personnel who were on an advisory mission to Syria as well as five of their accompanying officers.

Iranian authorities have consistently stated their commitment to enhancing the country's military capabilities, with a clear focus on defensive purposes. They have asserted that Iran's defense capabilities are non-negotiable and will not be subject to discussions