TEHRAN – Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei here Wednesday commended the Iranian nation for relaying its “message of unity” on the 46th anniversary of the country’s historic 1979 Islamic Revolution.
“Despite the constant, idiotic threats against us, the people of Iran showed the world their identity, their strength, and their unwavering resolve,” he told defense ministry officials, defense industry specialists and families of martyrs.
Ayatollah Khamenei conveyed his appreciation for the enthusiastic youth participating in the nationwide rallies. 
“I have a profound connection to our wonderful youth. I hope that, by God’s grace, His mercy will extend over this populace and that a better future awaits this knowledgeable, courageous, and vigilant nation.” 
The Leader described the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution’s victory as a grand and historic eve for the Iranian nation. 
“It is unprecedented in any revolution for a nation to still celebrate in the streets on the anniversary of their revolution after 46 years,” he said.
Ayatollah Khamenei described the participation of all segments of the nation – men, women, children, the elderly, and the youth – in the cold and biting weather, as a national and popular movement. 
He stated that this year’s ceremony was one of the most important and outstanding celebrations of the Islamic Revolution’s anniversary.
The Leader touched on the relentless barrage of propaganda and soft warfare waged by enemies against the “owners” of the Islamic Revolution which are the Iranian people and against the “hero” of the occasion who is Imam Khomeini.
“Under the circumstances, the people took to the streets in all cities and villages across the country in a timely fashion to articulate their thoughts and stances.”
Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized that the celebrations on this year’s anniversary were not just a commemoration, but a powerful act of resistance and national unity.
His remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to use force if Tehran does not negotiate on its nuclear program.
In his recent media interviews, the U.S. leader suggested stopping Iran could be achieved either “with bombs or with a written piece of paper”.
“I would much rather do a deal that’s not gonna hurt them,” Trump told Fox News on Monday, adding that “I’d love to make a deal with them without bombing them.”
Tensions have ratcheted since Trump took office in January and reinstated his “maximum pressure” policy against Iran.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian questioned U.S. sincerity in seeking talks with Tehran.
“Trump says he wants to negotiate, yet at the same time, he signs off on every possible conspiracy to bring this revolution to its knees,” Pezeshkian told those gathered in Tehran on Monday to mark the 46th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution.
In his remarks Wednesday, Ayatollah Khamenei said “the clear and guiding words” President Pezeshkian were a complement to the nation’s remarkable movement. 
“The honorable President articulated the heartfelt sentiments of the people and addressed all that needed to be communicated,” the Leader said. 
Speaking after visiting an exhibition showcasing the latest defense sector developments, Ayatollah Khamenei said “progress should not be stopped”.
“We cannot be satisfied,” The Leader said. “Say that we previously set a limit for the accuracy of our missiles, but we now feel this limit is no longer enough. We have to go forward.”
Ayatollah Khamenei said, “Today, our defensive power is widely recognized, admired by the friends of the Islamic Revolution and feared by its enemies, making it a crucial asset for the country.
The Leader described the exhibition as one of the “best and finest,” expressing deep gratitude for the efforts of defense industry scientists, specialists, officials, and staff. The nation, he said, should also be thankful to “their capable sons”.
Ayatollah Khamenei recalled a time when global bullies refused to sell Iran essential defense equipment, even at several times the price, saying those same bullies now demand that Iran refrain from selling military equipment to others. 
“There is a huge gap between ‘we won’t sell’ and ‘don’t sell,’ which has been bridged thanks to the endeavors of scientists and the sharp minds of young specialists,” he said.
Highlighting Iran’s remarkable defense advancements despite sanctions, he said the defense industry has reached a point where if any part or equipment is withheld, Iranian youth produce an “even better” version domestically.
These advancements have “elevated Iran’s defensive ranking” on the global stage, the Leader said, but warned against stopping and being content with the current situation. 
Iran, he said, started from scratch and, despite significant efforts and achievements, still has ground to cover in many areas to reach the edge of technological advancement.
Ayatollah Khamenei said achieving the edge of military capability is a fulfillment of the Qur’anic command that “And prepare against them whatever forces you can muster” which calls for maximum and continuous preparedness against the enemies and is an essential requirement for defending the country against ill-wishers. 
The Leader also stressed the need to focus on innovation and avoid stagnation, calling it a key requirement for the defense industry’s progress. 
“Innovation has no limits,” he said, clarifying that it does not merely mean the ability to replicate or refine others’ work, but rather the pursuit of unexplored possibilities and the actualization of “unknown potential” within nature.
Additionally, Ayatollah Khamenei urged universities and research centers affiliated with the armed forces to direct their studies toward meeting the country’s defense needs.