Iranian Military Advisor Warns of Enemy Plots, Calls for National Unity Amid Economic Strains
ISFAHAN, Iran: A senior military advisor in Iran has cautioned that adversaries are exploiting social issues, including women’s rights, to sow division within the country, emphasizing the importance of national unity and vigilance amid ongoing economic pressures.
Brigadier General Hossein Ashtari, a top advisor to the chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces, spoke on Thursday during a ceremony marking the sixth anniversary of General Qassem Soleimani’s martyrdom in Isfahan. He warned that external enemies are unable to achieve their objectives through military means and are instead attempting to create discord among the Iranian population.
“Unity and cohesion strike a blow to our enemies,” Ashtari said. “They will not succeed through military or security confrontations, and we must ensure that no rift arises among the people.”
Highlighting economic challenges faced by ordinary citizens, he stressed that officials should address the needs of the disadvantaged and avoid the political exploitation of social and economic issues.
Iran has seen protests erupt in recent days, beginning Sunday, after shopkeepers in Tehran shuttered businesses in response to the rial plunging to record lows against the US dollar. Iranian Attorney-General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad described peaceful economic protests as a “recognizable reality” that must be addressed through legal channels, while warning that attempts to manipulate such demonstrations will face decisive legal action.
“Economic pressures can lead to the formation of social demands and protests, and in this framework, peaceful economic protests must be pursued through legal channels,” Movahedi-Azad said, adding that attempts to turn legitimate protests into insecurity or unrest through media manipulation or exploitation of individuals will not be tolerated.
Ashtari underscored the significance of maintaining cohesion and preserving the Islamic Republic, referencing the guidance of the late Imam Khomeini and the current leadership of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei. He praised the leader’s strategic role in navigating crises and safeguarding the welfare of the people, especially the underprivileged.
“Wherever the security of the people is at stake, citizens have always stood united,” Ashtari said. He urged the nation to follow the path of the martyrs and expressed hope that Iran will overcome current challenges without undermining the sacrifices of its heroes.
The remarks come amid a backdrop of economic instability, sanctions, and social tensions, with officials reiterating the need to balance public grievances with national security and cohesion.