Iranian forces on higher alert, stronger than before war, spokesman says

Iran's military is "stronger" and more motivated than it was when the United States and Israel started the war in February, says Iranian army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia. "Today, the Islamic Republic's armed forces... having gained experience from direct confrontation with the United States and the Israeli regime, are on higher alert and are stronger than they were at the beginning of the war," Akraminia said, according to the state news agency Irna. "They now possess greater motivation, commitment, and self-confidence." Akraminia said that Iranian armed forces retained control over the Strait of Hormuz and that it would remain closed until the United States accepted Tehran's demands. "Under the order of the Supreme Leader, the response of the armed forces will be immediate, effective, and without geographical limitations," he added.