The Five pillars of victory in hybrid warfare

In his recent remarks, the wise Leader of the Islamic Revolution described the continuous unity and cohesion of the Iranian nation as an iron fist upon the head of the enemy. His Eminence, while honoring the memory of commanders, scientists, and other martyrs of the 12-day war, sincerely and deeply extended condolences to their families. He focused the main themes of his televised address to the nation on three key points:

1. The importance of unity and cohesion of the Iranian nation during the 12-day war and for the present and future of the country.

2. Clarifying the significance of beneficial uranium enrichment.

3. Explaining the firm and wise stance of the nation and the system in the face of U.S. threats.

In analyzing the content of the Leader’s recent statements, five important points stand out:

1. The enemy’s defeat in cognitive warfare

A certain outcome of recent developments—and foremost, the 12-day war—was the enemy’s defeat in the cognitive war against the Iranian nation. In cognitive warfare, victory or defeat is determined by safeguarding a nation’s beliefs and constants. The enemy’s Achilles’ heel lies in the collapse of the assumptions and macro-calculations upon which its cognitive war was built. During the recent 12-day war, these calculations were challenged by the vigilance and timely response of the Iranian people. The Leader explicitly emphasized that, contrary to the enemy’s assumptions, when people took to the streets after the war, it was not to weaken the system but to defend and protect it.

2. Monitoring the enemy’s hybrid ear

The relative simultaneity of the activation of the “snapback mechanism” with the 12-day war and the intensification of anti-Iran propaganda from the West send a clear message: the continuation of the enemy’s hybrid war. It has been repeatedly emphasized that the concept of war and its manifestations have changed compared to past centuries or even recent years. Aggregating past data, present realities, and forward-looking analyses confirm the persistence of this hybrid war. In facing such a battle, one must not enter naively or complacently: both the text and subtext of the battlefield, as well as its defined methods and channels, must be monitored and analyzed. For example, a “no war, no peace” atmosphere must not lead to stagnation or suppress the spirit of effort and movement.

3. National unity: The driving force of the country and revolution

In such conditions, national unity is the driving force of the country and the Islamic Revolution. One of the main reasons for the repeated emphasis on internal cohesion and national solidarity lies here. Some may consider national unity merely a “desirable quality” in governance. But in the deep belief of the two Imams of the Revolution, derived from revolutionary and religious principles, “the people” and “national cohesion” are the very causes of vitality, security, and territorial integrity of the country. This driving force must be preserved. The Leader has clearly indicated how this internal cohesion and unity thwarted the enemy’s plans during the 12-day war. Therefore, national unity must be regarded as a factor essential for the survival of the nation, and any action undermining it must be avoided.

4. The role of diligent effort and proper conduct

The Leader once again highlighted the diverse victories of Iranian athletes and students in the past two months (the post-war period): from the brilliance of Olympiad students to the championships of Iran’s freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling teams in world competitions. These international triumphs, which inspired amazement and admiration abroad, embody the spirit of zeal and skill within our beloved land. According to the Leader, this astonishing effort and admirable conduct should become a model for the advancement and greatness of a strong Iran. This underscores the crucial role of diligent effort and wise, pride-inspiring behavior in the country’s path toward growth and progress.

5. Focus on lines of progress

The red lines that the Islamic Republic of Iran has set regarding its nuclear, missile, and regional activities are, in fact, the very lines of national progress. Adhering firmly to these lines, alongside a steadfast defense of national interests, paves the way for advancement. Here, the combination of the country’s hard and soft power creates a hybrid strength, the core of which is Iran’s progress and elevation. This must be pursued as a vital goal. Dozens of other lines of progress exist in cultural and social arenas, where persistence and focus can generate opportunities and neutralize threats. On this path, Iran must not be daunted by the rhetoric or threats of its sworn enemies.