Iran’s Power Rooted in People: FM

Addressing a conference of the political officials of the Iranian Armed Forces in Tehran on Tuesday, Araqchi said people constitute the main source of all components of Iran’s power.

The foreign minister also emphasized the necessity for efforts to maintain and strengthen national unity and solidarity in the country.

Various forms of power are needed in order for the foreign policies to be carried out effectively, such as economic, cultural, psychological and soft power, he added, highlighting the role of “hard power” in supporting diplomacy in practice.

Araqchi noted that an illustration of power is the principle of resistance against injustice, occupation and interference, adding that resistance has a natural and moral basis and also complies with international law.

In remarks on January 3, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei underlined the significance of soft power, stating that it is more impactful and effective than hard power.

The Leader highlighted that although the US possesses advanced weaponry, it primarily directs its investments in areas such as media, art, literature, and cinema.

The Leader considered the effect of hard power temporary and limited. While referring to America's disgraceful withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Iraqi population’s deep hatred toward the White House, he added, "Despite using hard power, the US was unable to establish a lasting and successful presence in these nations, whereas soft power has been able to put a seemingly minority group like the Palestinian people in the world's spotlight. This is due to the innocence, patience and resilience of the Palestinian people."