RismadarVoice Reporters
November 13, 2026
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has declared that the presence of United States military bases in the Gulf region no longer guarantees security, amid continuing tensions involving Tehran, Washington and their regional allies.
The IRGC Deputy Commander, Major-General Mostafa Izadi, asserted in remarks reported by Iranian media on Friday, arguing that the ongoing conflict had exposed what he described as the limitations of American military power.
Izadi maintained that the belief that US military installations could protect countries hosting them had been undermined by recent developments.
He described American power as a “paper tiger”, claiming that even US forces stationed far from Iran were increasingly concerned about their security.
The commander said Iran had demonstrated its ability to challenge military threats despite the presence of American installations across the region.
He further warned that Iranian forces remained prepared to respond to perceived threats regardless of their geographical location.
According to Izadi, Iran’s military readiness covers missile systems, air defence, drones, naval operations and territorial defence.
He also highlighted the role of the Basij, a paramilitary organisation affiliated with the IRGC, in supporting Iran’s national defence arrangements.
The remarks come amid heightened regional security concerns following months of military confrontation involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Iranian forces have carried out attacks against American military facilities and other targets in the region, raising concerns about the security of Gulf states hosting foreign troops.
However, Izadi’s assessment that US military bases no longer provide security represents Iran’s position and has not been independently established as a definitive assessment of American defence capabilities.
The United States maintains military partnerships and installations across the Gulf, including facilities supporting air, naval and regional defence operations.
The effectiveness of those arrangements remains a subject of strategic debate as regional governments assess the consequences of the continuing conflict.
Izadi was appointed deputy commander of the IRGC in August 2026 during a restructuring of Iran’s senior military leadership.
He previously held several senior positions, including command responsibilities within the IRGC Ground Forces.
His latest remarks reflect Tehran’s continued emphasis on military deterrence and its opposition to the presence of American forces near Iranian territory.
The statements also underline the continuing tensions surrounding foreign military deployments, regional security arrangements and the possibility of further confrontation in the Gulf.
