Iran Stages Massive Military Drills to Mark Sacred Defense Week

Local Editor

Different divisions of Iran's Armed Forces are holding annual military parades on the first day of the Sacred Defense Week, which marks the 36th anniversary of the eight-year Iraqi war on Iran.

Similar parades are also being held to mark the occasion.

During the parade in southern Tehran, Iranian Armed Forces showcased their latest achievements in the area of defense, including various missile defense systems.

Meanwhile, Iran's chief of staff of the armed forces stated that a $38 billion aid deal between the United States and "Israel" makes Iran more determined to strengthen its military.

In comments broadcast live on Iranian state TV, Gen Mohammad Hossein Bagheri says the US-"Israel" aid deal "will make us more determined in strengthening the defense power of the country."

In late September 1980, the regime of slain Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein launched a war against Iran. Iran holds a military parade every year to honor the martyrs of the eight-year war imposed by the former regime in Baghdad.

A number of senior military officials as well as military attaches of foreign embassies in Iran are attending the event during which the Army is to showcase part of its equipment and military capabilities.

Chief of Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Hossein Baqeri has delivered a speech at the event in place of President Hassan Rouhani, who is currently in New York to attend the 71st Session of the UN General Assembly.