Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
Photo: AP
Iran: We'll cut aggressor's hands
Iranian President Ahmadinejad says Iranian army is 'among most powerful armies because you rely on God'
Iran's hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned Tuesday Iran will "cut the hand of any aggressor," and insisted the country's military has to be equipped with the most modern technology. "Today, you are among the world's most powerful armies because you rely on God," Ahmadinejad told a parade to commemorate army day.
"Iran's enemies know your courage, faith and commitment to Islam and the land of Iran has created a powerful army that can powerfully defend the political borders and the integrity of the Iranian nation and cut the hand of any aggressor and place the sign of disgrace on their forehead," Ahmadinejad said.
The president made the comments amid an escalating tension between Iran and the international community over Tehran's suspected nuclear activities.
Nuclear cover
The United States, Israel and France have accused Iran of using its civilian nuclear program as a cover to produce nuclear weapons. Iran has denied the charges saying its nuclear program is geared merely toward generating electricity.
Ahmadinejad said Iran's army "has to be constantly ready, equipped and powerful. It has to be equipped with the latest technologies, recognize the enemy and constantly be vigilant." He spoke to military officers before a parade of the armed forces in southern Tehran. Ahmadinejad, however, said Iran's army will "serve peace and security for mankind especially the region and its neighbors."
"Power of our army will be no threat to any country. Our army carries the message of peace and security ... It is humble toward friends and a shooting star toward enemies," he said.
