Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) staged an extensive naval parade on Thursday, deploying 3,000 vessels across the Gulf, Makran coasts, and the Caspian Sea in a show of support for Palestinians ahead of International al-Quds Day.

During a gathering in Bandar Abbas, IRGC Navy Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri emphasized that Iran’s maritime forces remain committed to securing regional waters and countering adversarial movements. "We will turn the sea into hell for the Zionists and eliminate Israel from the face of the world," he declared, echoing the guidance of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Sayyed Ali Khamenei.

"We will not only fight on land. We are also ready in the sea, and you will have no way to escape," Tangsiri said, warning the Israeli entity and reinforcing Iran’s determination to maintain security in the Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and northern waters.

Naval mobilization as a symbol of Resistance

Tangsiri framed Iran’s naval operation as a symbol of defiance, stating, "The naval Basij force is not just a military unit but a representation of the Islamic nations' defiance against oppressors. Today, the seas have become an arena for confronting occupiers."

Highlighting the significance of al-Quds Day, he asserted, "This day represents a global stand against oppression. Not just Iranians, but Muslims worldwide will voice their opposition to injustice."

Tangsiri also described Iran’s maritime forces as a pillar of resistance, stressing that their strength instills fear among enemies. "With more than 3,000 vessels, we have ensured security and deterrence in our waters," he said, cautioning that any hostile move would face a swift and decisive response.

In a message addressed to adversaries, he declared, "You will find no escape route through the sea. Iran’s naval Basij, alongside other Muslim nations, will block all your paths," reiterating Iran’s preparedness to confront threats beyond land.

"We are ready at sea as well. You have nowhere to run," he asserted.

The naval display also involved forces from the Axis of Resistance, with Palestinian flags prominently featured. 

Tangsiri concluded his remarks by affirming Iran’s unwavering commitment to resistance, stating, "We do not fear martyrdom. The era of tyranny over the seas is over, and we stand ready to counter any threats."

Iran urges mass participation in al-Quds Day 

On his part, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian urged nationwide participation in the annual al-Quds Day march on Friday, emphasizing that a strong public turnout would demonstrate Iran’s unwavering support for Palestine.

"I hope that with the widespread presence of the people, we will have a glorious al-Quds Day ahead, and that on this day, the people will showcase their unity and solidarity to the world," Pezeshkian said during his first Cabinet meeting of the new Iranian calendar year.

Iran’s General Staff of the Armed Forces also issued a statement urging global participation in al-Quds Day demonstrations, framing the occasion as a universal stand against Zionist oppression.

"The International Al-Quds Day is the day when free nations and Muslims of the world take the stage against the oppression, tyranny, and wickedness of the Zionist regime and its supporters," the statement declared.

It condemned Israeli atrocities and called on the international community to denounce the entity's crimes, including genocide and aggression, along with the complicity of its allies, particularly the United States.

The statement underscored that the Palestinian people are not alone and that Resistance will continue until al-Quds is liberated and "Israel" is eradicated.

Brigadier General Esmaeil Qa’ani, commander of the IRGC’s Quds Force, also reiterated Iran’s unwavering support for the Palestinian struggle against Israeli occupation and aggression, further reinforcing Tehran’s stance ahead of al-Quds Day mobilizations worldwide.

It is worth noting that people of various faiths and backgrounds participate in commemorating International al-Quds Day in solidarity with the Palestinian cause, reflecting its global significance and appeal as a symbol of Resistance against oppression and injustice.