Iran: Revolutionary Guard Corps expands naval arsenal

TEHRAN: The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) bolstered its naval forces with over 2,500 anti-ship missiles and drones.

This includes advanced cruise missiles for medium to long-range attacks and electronic warfare equipment to improve operational effectiveness.

Read more: Pakistan denies supplying ballistic missiles to Iran

According to reports, the newly delivered cruise missiles are designed to bypass enemy radar and potentially sink naval destroyers.

The Commander of the Revolutionary Guard, Major General Hussain Salami, stated that the assets would allow Iranian forces to engage threats at both close and long ranges. The general stated that strengthening Iran’s defense capabilities was important for “national survival” and security amid escalating regional tensions.

The military buildup follows the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran by Israel. The assassination right in Iranian capital further deteriorated Iran-Israel tensions.

Iran pledged to retaliate against Israel for the assassination attempt. While the alarmed international community urged de-escalation to prevent further violence, the United States openly threatened Iran against any “attack on Israel”.

Iran clarifies its stance on Gaza ceasefire to the UN

Meanwhile, Iran’s mission to the United Nations clarified its stance on the Gaza ceasefire. The mission stated that Iran’s right to self-defense is separate from the ceasefire discussions and will not affect potential agreements.

Read more: Iran would face “significant consequences” if it attacks Israel: US

The mission said that Iran has repeatedly expressed willingness to support a ceasefire if accepted by Hamas.

The Iranian mission also acknowledged ongoing, though undisclosed, communication channels with the United States. Political analysts see this as a positive sign.