Dr. Mohammad Hossein Safarharandi, an esteemed member of the Expediency Council and a graduate of the Supreme National Defense University delivered a lecture to the university students

Dr. Mohammad Hossein Safarharandi, an esteemed member of the Expediency Council and a graduate of the Supreme National Defense University, delivered a lecture to the university students on the evening of Tuesday, January 2, 2024. The subject of his speech revolved around the importance of public participation and voting in the forthcoming elections. Dr. Safarharandi expounded upon the concept of religious democracy as viewed through the lens of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution. According to the Supreme Leader, the participation of the people and their exercise of voting rights in religious democracy are vital not only for the system's acceptability but also for its legitimacy. Furthermore, they stress the significance of conducting elections with precision and consider themselves as custodians of the people's votes.

Dr. Safarharandi stated, "The leader consistently opposes the notion of low participation and predetermined outcomes in elections. He supports high levels of public engagement." He offered advice to the Guardian Council and other responsible authorities, urging them to meticulously safeguard the rights of candidates during the qualification verification process. Unfortunately, in 2010, due to the subversion of certain political factions and the interference of foreign adversaries, one of the most significant elections in the country transformed into a platform for internal divisions and crises instead of fostering unity and national cohesion. Naturally, electoral competition should adhere to the principles of the independence of the Islamic Republic, the constitution, and the defense of the government. Those who deviate from these principles and are not bound by the constitution under which they are nominated should not hold positions as elected officials.

He emphasized that a vibrant assembly is not one devoid of differing opinions or political tastes. The existence of diverse thoughts and preferences leads to social and political prosperity in the country. Participation in elections ensures national security, reduces pressure, and alleviates the despair of adversaries. A resolute approach will enhance the efficiency of the country and enable the resolution of existing challenges and issues.

Subsequently, Brigadier General Dr. Ismail Ahmadi Moghadam, the president of the National Defense University, extended congratulations on the birthday of Fatima Zahra (PBUH) and acknowledged the esteemed status of women. He also honored the memory of Martyr General Hajj Qasim Soleimani, Abu Mahmadi Al-Muhandis, and Martyr Seyyed Razi Mousavi. He acknowledged the significance of conducting such ceremonies in the future. Referring to the structural and infrastructural advancements achieved by the university, he remarked that while they are still in a phase of growth and have not yet reached full maturity, progress has been swift, and the current student body comprises 1,120 individuals pursuing various courses in national defense, governance, doctoral theoretical programs, and thesis writing.

Dr. Ahmadi Moghadam highlighted the opportunities provided to friendly and aligned nations with Iran to send students to this university. He reported significant interest among high-ranking officials of neighboring countries during recent visits, with a commitment to filling the available capacity in the following academic year. He added that the educational level of foreign students at this university surpasses that of other countries in the region and the world. According to senior military officials from nations that have sent students to this university, the Supreme Supreme National Defense Universityof the Islamic Republic of Iran is the regional and global leader in this field. This distinction is the result of over three decades of painstaking efforts.

The ceremony concluded with speeches from three students representing the faculties of defense, security, and strategic management. Additionally, a diploma was presented to the family of Martyr General Dr. Seyed Mohammad Hijazi, the former deputy of the IRGC Quds Force, and to the late Colonel Dr. Habibollah Khawaja Naseer, both of whom were esteemed graduates of this university. The event drew to a close, marking the end of the university proceedings.