Tasnim - A deputy commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) slammed the US for holding military drills in the Persian Gulf, saying the era of US military presence in the region is nearing its end.

Speaking to Tasnim on Monday, IRGC commander’s political deputy, General Yadollah Javani, said if Americans are after regional security they must leave the region.

“Regional countries can create sustainable security in the region on their own through synergy and without the US,” he said.

The US is holding live-fire training operations in the Persian Gulf, involving helicopter gunships and amphibious groups. US officials have touted the ongoing drill as a chance to demonstrate what they described as “awesome firepower” of US weapons.

The IRGC official said, “The Islamic Republic is now an established regional power and is turning into a global power. Today, the US is no longer as powerful as the past and cannot impose its will on others."

Iranian officials have repeatedly underscored that the country will not hesitate to strengthen its military capabilities, including its missile power, which are entirely meant for defense, and that Iran’s defense capabilities will be never subject to negotiations.

In February 2018, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei called for efforts to maintain and boost Iran’s defense capabilities, hitting back at the enemies for disputing the country’s missile program.

“Without a moment of hesitation, the country must move to acquire whatever is necessary for defense, even if the whole world is opposed to it,” Ayatollah Khamenei said at the time.