Major General Hatami: We must harness the lessons of the 12‑day war as if they were twelve years of experience.

According to the Sedaye Sama News Agency, The opening ceremony of the 86th Defense Management course at the Army Command and Staff University was held with the presence of Major General Amir Hatami, Commander-in-Chief of the Iranian Army. During the event, Major General Hosni Saadi was honored, and the academic diploma of Martyr Colonel Alireza Boostan Afrouz was presented to his family. Major General Hatami addressed the students, emphasizing that studying strategic military and defense topics at the university places them on the path of scientific and military elites, with responsibilities for defending the nation and the Islamic Revolution greater than ever.

He highlighted Iran’s strategic position, stressing the importance of preserving territorial integrity, independence, and the Islamic Republic. He noted that the Iranian nation has always safeguarded its ideals and the legacy of martyrs despite obstacles and enmity. The 12-day imposed war was described as evidence of the enemy’s false claims that Iran’s problems and sanctions stem from the existence of the Islamic system, proving instead that the nation’s defense capabilities remain robust.

Major General Hatami emphasized the necessity of learning from the 12-day war, stating that although brief, it should be studied as if it were twelve years of experience. He underlined the need for the Army to adapt to combined and perception-focused warfare, and for the university to conduct in-depth research on this unique experience.

He praised the efforts of instructors, veterans, and defenders, highlighting their crucial role during the Sacred Defense and in significant operations such as Thamen al-A’immeh, Tariq al-Qods, Fath al-Mobin, and Beit al-Moqaddas. He noted that graduates and faculty of the university had actively participated alongside commanders in critical operations, ensuring the country’s honor and security.

Major General Hatami also introduced exemplary figures, including Major General Hosni Saadi, a symbol of dedication, loyalty, and responsibility, and Martyr Colonel Boostan Afrouz, whose ultimate sacrifice exemplifies commitment to national defense. He stressed that such role models are essential for guiding students and young military personnel on the correct path.

He added that martyrs and veterans, like Boostan Afrouz, remain eternal examples, and the nation’s resilience today is rooted in their sacrifices. Respect for the families of martyrs is crucial, and their legacy continues to inspire the training and development of the armed forces.

Regarding the 12-day war, he noted that modern warfare has shifted beyond single-force and joint operations, highlighting the importance of combined operations and cognitive warfare. He emphasized that the university should leverage this unique experience to prepare the Army for contemporary threats.

He concluded by stating that, despite challenges and adversities, the Iranian people continue to uphold their values and ideals, and the Armed Forces, guided by past experiences and inspired by veterans and martyrs, must ensure the country’s security and sovereignty.

Major General Hatami stressed that students and graduates of the Command and Staff University must apply strategic knowledge and past lessons, particularly from the 12-day war, to maintain a fully prepared and resilient Army capable of defending the nation.