The absolute priority now is full readiness to repel any threat, Ali Shamkhani said in this interview with Al-Mayadeen.
“Our message is clear: any movement that indicates hostile intent on the part of the enemy will be met with a proportionate, effective and deterrent response.”
Shamkhani emphasized that this proportionate response also includes attacking the depth of the Zionist regime.
“We are not limiting the geography of confrontation to the sea only and have prepared ourselves for broader and more advanced scenarios.”
Shamkhani added, “The increase in the (American) military presence in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman does not necessarily mean superiority in this region, which is our home. We know the geography and its capacities better.”
He went on to say, “We know the elements of comprehensive defense in the region more than any foreign power, and based on this, we have designed our defense and offensive doctrine and strategy.”
Shamkhani also said that Iran has exposed the enemy’s operational plan, has complete control over the enemy and will strike it at the appropriate time.
“If necessary, the Islamic Republic of Iran will resort to more effective options to defend its national security and territorial integrity,” he emphasized.
His remarks come as US President Donald Trump has escalated rhetoric, threatening new military action against Iran.
Washington recently deployed the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying strike group to West Asia near Iran.
Iranian officials have warned that there will be a firm military response to any act of aggression against the country.