On April 18, 1979, Imam Khomeini named 18 April as Army Day, during a speech to the people calling for military parades to exhibit the nation's military preparedness.
Imam Khomeini, the leader of contemporary Muslim world believed that political, social, and economic independence as well as security of the country hinged on existence of powerful military and police forces which formed the pillars of every country’s independence.
He however was against any type of meddling or interference of armed forces into the governmental and political matters.
Due to strong foundations and guidelines set by Imam, Islamic Republic has enjoyed an unprecedented amount of peace and was never threatened by any coup or instability.
The Iranian armed forces, in accordance with Imam’s advices, forged very strong bonds with the people and the government and have been an essential pillar of the Islamic nation
Imam from very beginning of victory of the Islamic Revolution said that the people and the army are friends to each other.
Imam Khomeini also advised members of armed forces to decorate themselves with moral excellence and divine virtues along professional capabilities.
Iranian national military forces, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and revolutionary forces known as Basij have played a great role in tackling all security threats facing the country over the past decades.
On the occasion this year, Iranian armed forces have held nationwide parades to commemorate national Army Day. President Hassan Rouhani made a speech during a ceremony in Tehran. He reiterated that Iran’s military might is solely for defensive purposes, but warned that the armed forces will give a strong response to any act of aggression.