TEHRAN: Iran on Thursday firmly rejected United States claims that its military capabilities had been severely damaged, insisting that the country’s armed forces remain fully operational and prepared to respond to any threat.
The statement comes amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington following recent military exchanges in the Gulf region and ongoing disputes over regional security and Iran’s military capabilities.
Iran Dismisses US Assessment
According to Iran’s state broadcaster, Iranian Armed Forces spokesperson Abolfazl Shekarchi dismissed assertions by US officials that Iranian defence systems had been destroyed during recent military operations.
“Do not focus on the enemy’s claims; what matters is the reality on the battlefield,” Shekarchi said.
He maintained that Iran’s military remains combat-ready and has continued strengthening its capabilities despite sustained pressure and threats from foreign adversaries.
The spokesman argued that reports suggesting Iran’s military infrastructure had been significantly weakened were inaccurate and intended to create a misleading perception of the situation.
Tehran Says Military Stronger Than Before
Shekarchi claimed that Iran’s armed forces are now in a stronger position than they were at the beginning of the conflict.
He stated that military preparedness remains at a high level and emphasized that Iranian forces have continued to improve their operational capabilities throughout the crisis.
“We have always said that we are ready, and the enemy has experienced this readiness on the battlefield,” he said.
Iranian officials have repeatedly stressed that the country maintains a robust defence posture and possesses the capability to respond to any military challenge.
Trump Claims Iranian Military Was Crippled
The latest exchange of statements follows remarks by US President Donald Trump, who recently asserted that American and Israeli airstrikes had inflicted major damage on Iran’s military infrastructure.
Trump claimed that Iran’s military assets had been largely destroyed during coordinated operations targeting key strategic facilities.
Iranian authorities have strongly disputed those claims, describing them as exaggerated and inconsistent with conditions on the ground.
Officials in Tehran argue that while some losses were sustained, the country’s military command structure and operational capabilities remain intact.
Missile Arsenal Still Operational
Shekarchi also rejected suggestions that Iran’s missile stockpiles had been exhausted.
He argued that reports regarding depleted missile inventories were part of an intelligence-gathering effort aimed at assessing Iran’s true military strength.
According to the spokesperson, Iran continues to possess significant missile capabilities and remains capable of defending its national interests.
The status of Iran’s missile programme has remained a central point of tension between Tehran and Western powers for years.
Claims of Greater Losses for US Forces
During his remarks, Shekarchi asserted that Iranian forces had inflicted greater losses on US military assets than Iran itself had suffered.
While he did not provide specific figures or operational details, he maintained that Iran’s military performance had demonstrated its effectiveness during recent confrontations.
Independent verification of battlefield claims from either side remains difficult amid ongoing regional tensions and conflicting official narratives.
Continued Support for Hezbollah
The Iranian military spokesperson also reiterated Tehran’s support for Hezbollah in Lebanon.
He said the so-called “resistance front” remains united in opposing Israel and its allies throughout the region.
Iran has consistently described Hezbollah as a strategic partner and has frequently emphasized its support for groups aligned with its regional policies.
The issue remains a major source of friction between Iran, Israel, and several Western governments.
Strait Security Remains Key Concern
When asked about the possibility of actions affecting maritime routes, including the Bab al-Mandab Strait, Shekarchi indicated that Iran possesses multiple strategic options.
“We have many plans,” he said, adding that Iran would reveal its choices if circumstances required.
His remarks come as concerns continue over the security of critical shipping lanes in the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab are among the world’s most important maritime trade corridors, carrying significant volumes of global energy supplies and commercial cargo.
Regional Tensions Continue
The latest statements highlight the ongoing war of narratives between Tehran and Washington as diplomatic efforts struggle to ease regional tensions.
Military exchanges, disputes over shipping routes, and disagreements regarding Iran’s missile and nuclear programmes continue to complicate efforts aimed at achieving long-term stability.
While both sides have exchanged strong rhetoric in recent weeks, international observers continue to call for restraint and renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation.
As tensions persist, developments surrounding Iran’s military capabilities and regional influence remain at the center of global security concerns.
