Khamenei Praises Iranian Attacks as Strengthening National Pride

In a commendatory address, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has praised the Iranian armed forces for their efforts against Israel. Following a series of missile and drone attacks on Israeli territory, Khamenei highlighted the importance of these offensives for Iran's international reputation and for national pride. He considered the extent of arsenal deployment or the precision of the weapon hits to be of secondary importance compared to the willingness and ongoing capability of the armed forces to respond to threats. On April 13, Iran launched a massive retaliatory attack with over 300 missiles and drones, which according to Israeli military reports were almost entirely intercepted. The intercepted projectiles were intended to deliver 60 tons of explosives to their target. This Iranian action was triggered by a missile strike on a building of the Iranian representation in Damascus, which resulted in the death of two generals and several military personnel. Israel was held responsible for this attack, which, however, traditionally does not provide official comments on such reports. In his speech, Khamenei avoided any statements regarding the recent military countermeasures that Israel is alleged to have taken. The 85-year-old Ayatollah holds a key position in Iran's political structure since, according to the constitution, he has the final say in all strategic matters of the country.