Iran’s army chief vows “decisive response” to recent US bombing

Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Army, Major General Amir Hatami, has issued a stern warning following recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, declaring that the United States will once again face a “decisive response” for its actions.

Speaking via video link from the Zolfaqar Operational Headquarters to high-ranking army commanders stationed across the country, Hatami praised the armed forces for their efforts in confronting "the Zionist regime" and paid tribute to the martyrs and wounded soldiers of the recent conflict, Caliber.Az reports, citing Iranian media.

“Your successful missions during this period have denied the enemy any sense of accomplishment,” he said. “Today, they were compelled to target the main person responsible [for Iranian operations], directly engaging the Islamic Republic.”

"Your recent successful actions have not allowed the enemy to taste victory. So much so that now it is forced to turn to the main orchestrator [the US] of these crimes and directly draw it into a confrontation with the Islamic Republic of Iran," Hatami said.

Hatami drew historical parallels to previous confrontations between Tehran and Washington, stating: “Throughout the history of the Islamic Revolution—and even before it—we have repeatedly witnessed American crimes. From 1979 to the final stages of the Holy Defence era, each act of aggression was met with a firm and decisive response. This time will be no different.”

Reaffirming the military’s commitment to national defence, Hatami invoked the long-standing slogan “Army Sacrificing for the Nation,” emphasising that the Iranian public’s massive show of support on Friday had further strengthened the army’s resolve.

“We are grateful to this wise and honourable nation,” he said. “Today we are more committed than ever to defending the independence and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic.”

The army chief also framed the current struggle not as one of martyrdom alone but as a fight for victory. “Martyrdom is a great blessing, but today we are fighting to win. I call on all commanders and soldiers to carry out the directives from the Central Headquarters of the Khatam Seal of the Prophets (PBUH) and the Zolfaqar Operational Headquarters with innovation, resolve, and reason.”

In closing, Hatami expressed confidence in the army’s capabilities and divine support, adding: “With God’s help, victory is near—and this is the promise of the Almighty.”

Rear Admiral Seyyed Mahmoud Mousavi, Deputy Commander of Army Operations, concluded the meeting by briefing Major General Hatami on the current status of the army’s operations and future plans.

By Khagan Isayev