Following his visit to the exhibition, Imam Khamenei conveyed his congratulations on the blessed birthday of Imam Mahdi (may God hasten his reappearance) and described the 15th of Sha’ban as a global celebration for all of humanity. He emphasized, “The promise of justice, the hope for its establishment and the reappearance of the Savior, have always been the dream of people throughout history, and this wish will undoubtedly be fulfilled.”
The Leader of the Islamic Revolution referred to the 22nd of Bahman [the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution’s victory] as a grand and historic Eid for the Iranian nation. “It is unprecedented in any revolution,” he noted, “for a nation to still celebrate in the streets on the anniversary of their revolution after 46 years.”
Imam Khamenei described the participation of all segments of the nation – men, women, children, the elderly, and the youth – in the cold and biting weather, as a national and popular movement. He stated that this year's ceremony was one of the most important and outstanding celebrations of the Revolution’s anniversary.
The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, reflecting upon the relentless barrage of propaganda and soft warfare waged by enemies against the “owners” of the Revolution – namely, the Iranian populace – and against the “hero” of the 22nd of Bahman, that is, Imam Khomeini, underscored that, “In these circumstances, the people took to the streets in all cities and villages across the country in a timely fashion to articulate their thoughts and stances.”
He regarded the clear and guiding words of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the 22nd of Bahman rally as a complement to the nation’s remarkable movement. “The honorable President articulated the heartfelt sentiments of the people and addressed all that needed to be communicated.”
Imam Khamenei conveyed his appreciation for the enthusiastic youth participating in the nationwide rally on the 22nd of Bahman. “I have a profound connection to our wonderful youth. I hope that, by God's grace, His mercy will extend over this populace and that a better future awaits this knowledgeable, courageous, and vigilant nation,” he stated.
Imam Khamenei described the exhibition he had visited prior to the meeting as one of the “best and finest,” and expressed deep gratitude for the efforts of the country’s defense industry scientists, specialists, officials, and staff. He added that the nation should also be thankful for “their capable sons.”
He underscored the importance of defending the nation and safeguarding its security, stating that Iran’s “defensive power” is now widely recognized, admired by the friends of the Islamic Revolution and feared by its enemies, making it a crucial asset for the country.
Imam Khamenei recalled a time when global bullies refused to sell Iran essential defense equipment, even at several times the price. He noted that those same bullies now demand that Iran refrain from selling military equipment to others. “There is a huge gap between ‘we won’t sell’ and ‘don’t sell,’ which has been bridged thanks to the endeavors of scientists and the sharp minds of young specialists,” he said.
Highlighting Iran’s remarkable defense advancements despite ongoing sanctions by the enemies, he stressed that the country’s defense industry has reached a point where if any part or equipment is withheld, Iranian youth produce an “even better” version domestically.
Imam Khamenei also outlined the necessity and requirements for sustaining progress in the defense industry. He stated that these advancements have “elevated Iran’s defensive ranking” on the global stage but warned against stopping and being content with the current situation. He hastened to add that Iran started from scratch and, despite significant efforts and achievements, still has ground to cover in many areas to reach the edge of technological advancement.
Imam Khamenei described achieving the edge of military capability as a fulfillment of the Quranic command “And prepare against them whatever forces you can muster”—which calls for maximum and continuous preparedness against enemies—and an essential requirement for defending the country against ill-wishers. He went on to say that progress must continue across all military sectors, noting that if a certain level of precision had been deemed sufficient for missiles in the past but greater accuracy is now needed, then such advancements must be pursued.
The Leader also stressed the need to focus on innovation and avoid stagnation, calling it a key requirement for the defense industry’s progress. “Innovation has no limits,” he said, clarifying that it does not merely mean the ability to replicate or refine others’ work, but rather the pursuit of unexplored possibilities and the actualization of “unknown potential” within nature.
Additionally, Imam Khamenei urged universities and research centers affiliated with the Armed Forces to direct their studies toward meeting the country’s defense needs.
At the beginning of the meeting, Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh provided a report on the progress of research, design, and production of various advanced and “surprise” weaponry, as well as the non-military achievements of the defense industry, the establishment of defense technology parks, and the scientific collaboration between the defense sector and other high-tech industries.
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