Deterrence Iran's top priority: Nominee for defense minister

Pointing to the Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei's emphasis on improving the armed forces, Brigaddier General Amir Hatami in an exclusive interview with Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) said, 'The Ministry of Defense will act on the basis of the orders by the Command-in-Chief in using government capacities to prop up the armed forces.'

'Having a thorough understanding of the threats, the Defense Ministry is to pursue some major programs,' he said, stressing that boosting defense power and deterrence are the top priorities.

Despite all the limitations and sanctions imposed by Iran's enemies over a long period in the past, today, the Defense Ministry is able to manufacture and supply all equipment required by the armed forces in all fields, the General said.

'Enemies, especially the global arrogance, are trying to deprive Iran of its missile deterrence; therefore, all the efforts would be focused on the continuity, upgrade and boost of capabilities and quality in manufacturing missiles,' Hatami added.

In the third session of reviewing the ministerial nominees in the Parliament (Majlis) on Thursday, Hatami presented his plans for the Ministry of Defense.

The Parliament has yet to approve the new cabinet proposed by President Hassan Rouhani.

Rouhani was reelected as Iranian President for the second term after winning a landmark victory at the May 19 presidential election.

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