“I think if we want to give a good description of the situation, I think [on] the 40th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, Iran is probably at its peak when it comes to its regional clout, its regional influence, probably the most important regional player in the Middle East. So I think that we can clearly say that Iran has passed the test with flying colors. If we compare 1979 with now, as I said with the progress it has made not just when it comes to the military issues or regional influence but even when it comes to the medical field, the academic field, Iran has proven itself to be a force to be reckoned with,” Ali Rizk told Press TV in an interview on Monday.
“So the Iranians, I think, have a right to be proud of this occasion right now after 40 years, especially with the ongoing attempts ... since the beginning to try and topple the Islamic Republic or try and weaken the Islamic Republic. What has happened. I think. is exactly the opposite,” he added.
Millions of Iranians from all backgrounds took to the streets around the country to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution at a time of intensified US-led pressure.
Today marks the climax of Ten-Day Dawn commemorating the period between February 1, 1979 when Imam Khomeini returned from exile and the anniversary of the Revolution that ended 2,500 years of monarchical rule in Iran.
Every year on this day, the nation turns out in droves to highlight support for the Revolution which replaced the US-backed regime with an Islamic Republic.