In a speech before the Friday prayer sermons in Sari, Ehsan Khandozai explained the components of the power of the Islamic Republic of Iran and recent regional developments, honoring the memory of the martyrs and appreciating the people of Mazandaran.
Referring to the formation of the "five-axis power" in the Islamic Republic after the consolidation of the Islamic Revolution, he stated: These five components include a united and steadfast people, intelligent leadership, defense and military capabilities, efficient officials, and friends of the resistance front in the region, which together have formed the country's power structure.
Stating that the calculations of the enemies, especially the Zionist regime, were based on weakening these components, Khandozai added: In the enemy's incorrect analysis, it was assumed that by targeting the leadership elements, the armed forces, officials, and regional allies, the people would also support this process; while this perception was influenced by biased media narratives.
Referring to the developments after the "October 7th" operation and the increase in tensions in the region, he stated: "After this event and the decisive responses of the Islamic Republic to the actions of the Zionist regime, including Operation "Honest Promise 1" in response to the martyrdom of Martyr Zahedi, the enemy sought to implement a staged scenario to weaken Iran."
The former Minister of Economy continued: "In this direction, the elimination of some influential domestic figures and the weakening of the axis of resistance in the region were put on the agenda, and the events of 1403, including the martyrdom of Ayatollah Raisi, Ismail Haniyeh, and Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, as well as the developments in Syria, can be analyzed within this framework."
The nation's resistance caused the enemy to retreat
Referring to the continuation of this process in 1404, he said: "The enemy, by simultaneously using the tools of threat and negotiation, tried to force Iran to retreat, but the country's resistance caused these goals not to be achieved and ultimately led to more direct conflicts."
Referring to the recent wars, including the "12-Day War" and the "40-Day War," Khandozi noted: "In these conflicts, attempts were made to target the pillars of the system, including military commanders and even the leadership, but the internal cohesion and rapid response of the armed forces disrupted the enemy's equations."
He emphasized: "Contrary to predictions, not only did the people not leave the scene, but they supported the system with greater cohesion, and the country's leadership structure continued its path with stability and internal consensus."
The speaker before the Friday prayer sermons in Sari, referring to the addition of a new component to the power of the Islamic Republic, stated: "Dominating the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic factor has been added to the set of components of the country's power, which is a result of recent developments and pressure from enemies."
Citing the recent statements of the Supreme Leader of the Revolution regarding the victory of the people in this phase of the confrontations, he said: This victory showed that even if other components are damaged, it is the people who, with timing, courage, and loyalty, will lead the country through the crisis.
In conclusion, referring to the upcoming scenarios, whether the ceasefire continues or is violated by the enemy, Khandozai stated: In both cases, the Islamic Republic of Iran, relying on domestic capacities and popular support, is in a situation where the enemies' greed for the country has seriously decreased.
He also prayed for the final victory of the Iranian nation and the dignity of Muslims, emphasizing the continuation of the path of resistance and Iran's role in regional equations.