Iranian Leader Sayyed Ali Khamenei praised on Wednesday the extraordinary sacrifices of Iran’s top anti-terror commander, Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, who was assassinated by a US drone strike in 2020 near Baghdad’s International Airport, along with his companions.

"Martyr Soleimani’s unwavering strategy was to strengthen the Resistance Front. He was constantly dedicated to revitalizing resistance," Sayyed Khamenei stated.

His comments came during a meeting with families of martyrs, veterans, and resistance figures, as the fifth anniversary of General Soleimani's assassination approaches on January 3.

In a powerful address, the Iranian leader praised Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani's strategic vision and sacrifices, calling his efforts "unique" in defending Iran's sovereignty and the broader Resistance Front. 

"Soleimani’s logic was to defend the holy shrines in Iraq and Syria, protect Al-Aqsa Mosque, and safeguard the entire land of Iran," he declared.

Sayyed Khamenei also stressed that the sacrifices made by these martyrs are never in vain, even if they do not result in immediate victories. He warned that those who take pride in their current successes will ultimately be defeated by the unwavering determination of the faithful.

The Iranian leader also dismissed claims that the blood of martyrs, particularly those defending the sacred sites, had been in vain due to recent regional events.

"Without their sacrifices, there would be no mention today of the holy shrines in Karbala, Najaf, and the Zaynab Shrine," Sayyed Khamenei reaffirmed that every martyr's sacrifice had contributed to the preservation of these sacred landmarks.

Khamenei highlights Soleimani's significant role in arming the Resistance 

Highlighting Soleimani's significant role in mobilizing forces across the Middle East, the Iranian leader recalled that the martyr had been instrumental in organizing and arming Resistance fighters in Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. He also acknowledged the important role of martyr Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis in these efforts.

In a powerful statement of unwavering resolve, Sayyed Khamenei affirmed that Lebanon and Yemen, as iconic symbols of Resistance, will ultimately triumph, despite the significant challenges they continue to face.

He criticized foreign powers, especially the US, for their attempts to manipulate the region, asserting, "The enemies will be forced to leave humiliated."

Turning to Syria, Sayyed Khamenei reiterated that "Syria belongs to the Syrians" and warned that US military bases in the country would eventually be destroyed by the resistance of Syrian youth.

The Iranian leader cautioned that any country that weakens its foundation of national resilience, particularly by sidelining its dedicated youth, risks falling victim to foreign meddling, as seen in Syria.

"The resilience and dignity of a nation are built on enduring values that must be safeguarded," Sayyed Khamenei concluded, reinforcing his commitment to preserving the principles of Resistance and sovereignty in the face of external threats.