Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Iran’s Resilience- People and State- Topples American Superiority

Mohammad Raad, Head of the Loyalty to the Resistance Parliamentary Bloc
Al-Ahed Translations

Iran’s Resilience- People and State- Topples American Superiority

Among the points that warrant reflection in any overall assessment of the US–Zionist war of aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran is “President Trump’s astonishment- his shock and anger at Tehran’s insistence on resilience and confrontation, and its refusal to surrender despite the heavy losses it has suffered. Chief among these were the targeting of the Leader of the Revolution, Sayyed Ali Khamenei, as well as a number of key military, security, and political figures, in addition to the widespread destruction of capabilities, facilities, missile launch platforms, air defense bases, radars, factories, and more.

Trump and his aides had not imagined that, after such strikes, there would remain in Iran those who would firmly persist in continuing the confrontation against the US–Zionist aggression- rising with high confidence grounded in broad popular participation unparalleled in the history of wars- in order to defeat the objectives of this aggression and block its project of domination. This project aims not only at controlling Iran, but also at dominating oil and gas markets, controlling strategic international passageways, and cutting off energy supply routes to China- the main declared target of American arrogance at this stage.

No country in past or modern history could have withstood such major leadership and military losses as Iran did in March 2026 at the hands of the American and Zionist aggressors. Therefore, the shock that struck Trump and his partners is entirely natural. One of the key reasons for this overwhelming astonishment- and what deepens their disappointment and bitterness despite their exaggerated sense of power and dominance- is Iran’s resilience, steadfastness, sustained confidence, and continued ability to confront after the initial blow. It reflects a misreading and miscalculation of the foundations of the Islamic Republic’s system, and of the tightly interwoven ideological, mobilizational, organizational, and civilizational relationship between the leadership, its supporting forces, and the Iranian people- who, through their awareness and role, constitute the fundamental pillar of sovereignty and independence.

The Iranian authority does not descend upon the people by foreign parachutes or external directives, nor are the Iranian people merely a demographic mass filling a space to be tossed around by politicians in power struggles. Rather, they are active and serious producers of authority, based on firm visionary, principled, and realistic foundations that shape aspirations toward achieving both sectoral and comprehensive interests within the framework of the Islamic Republic’s national interests.

This unique interconnection- rare even globally and virtually absent in the Arab world- naturally shocks the reckless hegemon whose project of domination relies on an apparent superiority in vast material capabilities that are not matched by a minimum level of persuasive and positively influential civilizational values. Such values would otherwise make the US administration a credible example in upholding peace, security, justice, and stability.

Iran’s resilience and the steadfastness of the resistance in Lebanon are two models whose success will encourage their replication in many countries, systems, and environments that learn the lesson and respect their identity and existence.

Superiority does not merely mean possessing military and material capabilities to use against others in war. True superiority must also include a convincing justification that resorting to war carries legitimacy derived from adherence to the principles and values of international and humanitarian law. Without this, the powerful party loses its claim to superiority and instead places itself in the position of a bully or an outlaw.

Trump himself undermined and humiliated American superiority before the entire world when he threatened to use force to annihilate what he called “Iranian civilization,” revealing that the United States is not a force for building order, but merely a force of threat, destruction, and demolition. In doing so, he stripped away any claim to superiority or expectation of lawful, ethical conduct from his administration.

It has become clear- through both the current war and previous ones- that the imbalance within the American system between power and values is the deeper cause of US policy failures worldwide, despite all propaganda and promotional narratives- especially in dealing with countries whose peoples play an active role in shaping their systems and policies. The same applies to the flawed understanding and superficial assessments- shared by both the US administration and the Zionist entity- of systems rooted in genuine popular will. Hence the parallel shocks: the shock of the entity at Hezbollah’s ability to recover and quickly rebound after its leadership was targeted; and the shock of the United States at Iran’s continued resilience and confrontation in the face of a major war of aggression.

What we have witnessed in Gaza, and what the Hezbollah environment and the Islamic Republic of Iran have endured- had it been faced by any artificial state or environment in today’s world- the globe would have seen white flags covering rooftops. But history unfolds according to its own laws; those who have done wrong will come to know the fate to which they will return, and the final outcome belongs to the righteous.

The cohesion of the Islamic system in Iran and the resistance environment in Lebanon stems from the sincerity and depth of principled commitment to a civilizational mission, and from a more just and less selective application of laws, regulations, and norms within the system or society.

Respect for both the individual and the collective, a commitment to honesty and justice in practice, and the safeguarding of the integrity of this mission-driven model from distortion, defamation, and falsification- all of this strengthens cohesion and fosters readiness for sacrifice in defense of truth.
Because such elements of cohesion are rare in artificial or functional regimes, and in non-mission-driven societies, the rapid collapse of such systems under heavy enemy strikes- especially those targeting leadership and capabilities- is natural and proportionate to the force of the blow.

In contrast, in ideologically cohesive environments and systems that safeguard the interests and principles of such communities- sharing with them the responsibility of preserving homeland, sovereignty, human dignity, and vital interests- external aggression is met with an equal or stronger rebound in defense of existence and identity.

Iran’s resilience and the steadfastness of the resistance in Lebanon are clear expressions of this equation, and their success will encourage its replication in many countries, systems, and environments that learn the lesson and respect their identity and existence.

Hezbollah’s Advanced Drones Catch Enemy Off Guard, Reshape Battlefield Dynamics

By Al Ahed Staff

Hezbollah’s Advanced Drones Catch Enemy Off Guard, Reshape Battlefield Dynamics

Hezbollah has significantly expanded its arsenal of high-precision, high-speed FPV loitering attack drones as part of broader efforts to enhance its military capabilities, informed sources told Al-Ahed News.

According to the sources, in the fifteen months following the November 2024 ceasefire, the Hezbollah has continued to advance the development of these systems. Key technical modifications have reportedly been introduced, including the integration of fiber-optic control systems, rendering the drones resistant to downing, jamming and signal interception attempts.

The sources added that Hezbollah now operates multiple types of loitering attack drones tailored for different combat roles. Some models are designed to target infantry units, while others are configured to strike heavy military equipment such as tanks and bulldozers. 

Among the most notable variants are drones equipped with high-capacity batteries, enabling them to travel distances of up to 50 kilometers at high speed while carrying payloads of at least 7 kilograms.  These drones are reportedly capable of destroying Iron Dome systems and disabling early warning devices.

Such advancements, the sources noted, require highly specialized technical expertise, placing the Islamic Resistance among leading actors in the field of drone technology. 

The development process involves innovation and adaptation of existing components to meet specific operational needs; an approach contrasted with conventional military reliance on imported systems.

The success of this effort is underscored by the unprecedented effectiveness of these loitering drones, which has compelled the enemy to hold discussions on countermeasures after admitting they were caught off guard by the technology.

The drones have inflicted unprecedented losses, contributing to growing unease among enemy ranks and establishing themselves as a persistent tactical challenge.

The Enemy Kills The Image: A Series of Crimes Against journalists in Lebanon

Infographic by Abir Qanso

The Enemy Kills The Image: A Series of Crimes Against journalists in Lebanon

This infographic documents a sustained campaign of targeting journalists across Lebanon, where those carrying the truth have been repeatedly struck by “Israeli” fire despite clear press identification.

Since October 2023, journalists from Reuters, Al Mayadeen, Al Manar, and Al Akhbar have been killed in repeated strikes across Lebanon, often while in marked “PRESS” gear or vehicles, suggesting a pattern aimed at silencing reporting and obstructing frontline documentation of events.


The Enemy Kills The Image: A Series of Crimes Against journalists in Lebanon

Oil Prices Rise as US Blockade Pressures Iran and Disrupts Global Supply

By Al Ahed Staff, Agencies

Oil Prices Rise as US Blockade Pressures Iran and Disrupts Global Supply

Oil prices extended their upward trend on Wednesday, driven by growing concerns over supply disruptions following reports that the United States is preparing to prolong its blockade of Iranian ports—an escalation that continues to strain global energy flows.

According to The Wall Street Journal, US President Donald Trump has instructed aides to plan for an extended blockade aimed at tightening restrictions on Iran’s economy and oil exports by limiting maritime access to its ports.

Markets responded with sustained gains. Brent crude for June delivery rose 52 cents to $111.78 a barrel, marking an eighth consecutive day of increases, while the July contract climbed to $104.84. West Texas Intermediate futures for June rose 57 cents to $100.50, continuing a strong upward trajectory after recent gains.

Analysts say the blockade and maritime tensions are central to the rally. Yang An of Haitong Futures noted that extending restrictions around key shipping routes is likely to intensify supply constraints and keep prices elevated.

Although a ceasefire is in place in the US-“Israeli” war with Iran, the broader confrontation remains unresolved. Iran has halted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital corridor for about 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas—while the US continues its blockade of Iranian ports, compounding pressure on regional trade and energy markets.

Washington frames its actions as part of efforts to curb Iran’s nuclear program, while Tehran is demanding reparations for recent hostilities, relief from sanctions and recognition of its role in securing the Strait of Hormuz.

The ongoing disruption is already affecting global inventories. Data cited by market sources indicates that the American Petroleum Institute reported a second consecutive weekly drop in US crude stocks, falling by 1.79 million barrels in the week ending April 24. Gasoline inventories declined by 8.47 million barrels, and distillates fell by 2.60 million barrels, reinforcing expectations of tighter supply conditions.

Trump Eyes Extending War on Iran Past Legal Deadline

By Al Ahed Staff, Agencies

Trump Eyes Extending War on Iran Past Legal Deadline

US President Donald Trump is expected to explore ways to prolong the war on Iran as the 60-day limit for unauthorized military action nears, raising concerns over compliance with US law and the risk of further regional escalation.

May 1 marks 60 days since Trump notified Congress of military action against Iran, triggering obligations under the War Powers Resolution, which requires either congressional approval or a withdrawal of forces. Instead of complying, the administration is likely to pursue an extension to sustain the aggression.

"Trump is in a no-win situation, yet attempting to find a way out. He will likely seek an additional extension," retired US Army Lt. Col. Earl Rasmussen told RIA Novosti.

The law allows for only a limited extension under specific conditions, but critics argue that successive US administrations have repeatedly stretched or bypassed these constraints to maintain military operations abroad.

Rasmussen warned Trump faces a political dilemma, saying he may “double down and go forward with his threats” rather than withdraw, while calling the initial attack on Iran a miscalculation and cautioning that pressure from “Israel” and parts of the US establishment could drive further escalation.

Rasmussen believes the US is attempting to avoid what increasingly appears to be a strategic setback, as expectations that Iran would capitulate remain unrealistic.

"The US is looking for any way to avoid defeat but will likely need to, otherwise the future is unknown," he said.

He further warned that continued escalation could have severe global consequences, particularly for the economy.

"President Donald Trump knows that further escalation will probably send the world into a global recession or depression," he said.

Since mid-April, Washington has escalated pressure, including a naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz threatening global energy flows, while Iran says “conditions are still considered wartime,” confirming it is updating targets and equipment amid continued readiness for escalation.

UAE Announces Exit from OPEC to Pursue Independent Energy Strategy

By Al Ahed Staff, Agencies

UAE Announces Exit from OPEC to Pursue Independent Energy Strategy

The United Arab Emirates has said it will leave OPEC on May 1 after more than 50 years of membership. The government explained that the decision is part of a long-term economic vision and strategy focused on increasing flexibility in its energy sector.

Officials noted that OPEC production quotas have previously limited the UAE’s ability to expand oil exports. By leaving the organization, the country aims to boost investment in domestic energy production and respond more freely to global supply and demand conditions.

The UAE also pointed to regional tensions and economic pressures, including security challenges affecting key trade routes, as part of the broader context for its decision.

While exiting OPEC, the country stressed that it remains committed to responsible production policies and global market stability. It also emphasized continued investment in oil, gas, renewable energy, and low-carbon technologies.

The UAE highlighted its long history of cooperation with OPEC members but said the move reflects an evolution in its approach to energy policy and economic planning.

Velayati: Unified Iran Stands Firm as US–“Israel’’ Pressure Deepens Rift in Western Alliance

By Al Ahed Staff, Agencies

Velayati: Unified Iran Stands Firm as US–“Israel’’ Pressure Deepens Rift in Western Alliance

Ali Akbar Velayati, senior adviser to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, has said that Iran remains unified and resilient in the face of external pressure, while divisions are widening between the United States and its European allies.

In a post on X on Saturday, Velayati rejected claims from Washington that Iran is internally fractured, arguing instead that instability is growing within the Western bloc itself. He pointed to reported disputes between the United States and the United Kingdom over the Malvinas Islands, as well as increasing European calls for greater independence from US policy direction.

His remarks came after US President Donald Trump announced an extension of a ceasefire in the conflict with Iran, citing what he described as internal political divisions within Tehran. Velayati dismissed this narrative, saying Western leaders are projecting their own disagreements onto Iran.

He contrasted Western fragmentation with what he described as Iran’s cohesion, stating that “unified Iran stands in confrontation with the ‘Hebrew–Arab–American front.’” He also emphasized Iran’s perceived geopolitical role, saying: “The whole world is a body, and Iran is the heart.”

Velayati’s comments were made against the backdrop of ongoing tensions following the conflict involving the United States and “Israel,” which Iran says included large-scale military actions and targeted strikes. Iranian forces responded with missile and drone operations against regional military assets over an extended period.

A ceasefire was later brokered, followed by indirect negotiations in Islamabad involving Iranian officials and US representatives through Pakistani mediation. Those talks reportedly included discussions of sanctions relief and troop withdrawals but ended without agreement, with Iran citing a lack of trust in US commitments.

The latest remarks reflect Tehran’s position that, despite external pressure and continuing diplomatic efforts, it views internal Western divisions and inconsistent US policy as key obstacles to lasting stability.