Iran declares military stronger, warns US against fresh attacks

Iran has declared that its military capabilities have improved since the beginning of its war with the United States and Israel, warning that its armed forces are prepared to respond immediately to any further attacks.

The declaration came on Saturday, a day after Washington announced a reward of up to $20 million for information about Tehran’s nuclear programme.

Efforts by international mediators are ongoing to prevent a fresh outbreak of hostilities following months of stalemate in the Middle East conflict, which started in late February when the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran.

Meanwhile, Tehran has maintained restrictions on movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic shipping route responsible for transporting approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption.

Iranian Army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia said his country remained in control of the vital waterway, insisting that it would not be reopened until Washington met Tehran’s demands.

According to Iran’s state news agency, IRNA, Akraminia also maintained that the country’s military had become better prepared and more confident after months of confrontation with American and Israeli forces.

“Today, the Islamic Republic’s armed forces… having gained experience from confrontation with the United States and the Israeli regime, are on higher alert and are stronger than they were at the beginning of the war,” he said.

He added that the experience had strengthened the determination and confidence of Iranian troops.

“They now possess greater motivation, commitment, and self-confidence,” he stated.

The military spokesman further warned that Iran’s response to any attack would not be restricted by geographical boundaries, saying the armed forces were prepared to act on the directive of the country’s Supreme Leader.

“Under the order of the Supreme Leader, the response of the armed forces will be immediate, effective, and without geographical limitations,” he added.