Iran's IRGC on High Alert, Claims Strength in Ballistic Missile Operations

The Islamic Republic of Iran's Aerospace Force is prepared for any potential conflict, according to Brigadier-General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the commander of the IRGC's Aerospace Force. Speaking to Iranian state media Mehr News, Hajizadeh emphasized Iran's readiness, highlighting a series of significant ballistic missile operations to demonstrate the country’s defense capabilities.

Missile Power and Regional Tensions

In his statement, Hajizadeh claimed that the "world's largest ballistic missile operation" was conducted by Iran, reinforcing the nation's strength and readiness to defend its citizens. His comments followed a string of missile attacks against Israel in April and October 2024, which he justified as retaliation for what he described as Israel’s "misconception" that Iran would refrain from direct action to avoid war.

Hajizadeh explained that Iran did not initially expect to engage in a full-scale conflict, but responded as necessary when Israel took aggressive actions. He also labeled Israel's failure to prevent the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel as a "failure that cannot be repaired." He stated that Israel’s image of power was "unrealistic," noting their inability to prevent Hamas's Operation Al-Aqsa Flood.

Ballistic Missiles and Israel's Defense

Iran’s missile attacks in October 2024 resulted in 1,800 rocket sirens throughout Israel and the launch of 180 ballistic missiles. Remarkably, only one casualty was reported in the attack. During the conflict, Hajizadeh criticized Israel's air defense systems, claiming that many of their anti-ballistic missiles struck each other by mistake. He further boasted that 75% of Iran's missiles hit their intended targets, citing the failures in Israel’s defense capabilities.

Advancements in Defense and Missile Production

Hajizadeh also discussed Iran’s continued advancements in defense technology, stating that despite foreign efforts to halt them, the IRGC’s production of missiles and drones is progressing. His comments follow recent statements from IRGC deputy commander Brig.-Gen. Ali Fadavi, who warned that Iran’s next attack, Operation "True Promise 3," would take place at a strategically chosen moment. Both Hajizadeh and Fadavi downplayed the significance of U.S. and Israeli threats, calling them psychological tactics rather than genuine warnings of action.