Iran s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei calls for national drive to restore infrastructure

Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has urged a nationwide effort to restore infrastructure and repair damage from what he described as "unprovoked American-Zionist aggression," according to state broadcaster Press TV. His call came on Wednesday as part of a larger message for Islamic Republic Day and National Nature Day. Khamenei emphasized the need for national focus on the country's prosperity following recent conflicts. He pointed out that the external attacks have affected the people and specifically targeted Iran's land and natural environment. He criticized the opposition, saying that at a time when the "vile and ruthless American and Zionist enemy shows no limits in its savagery," the nation must prioritize internal growth. Khamenei noted that the enemy has even harmed the natural and environmental areas of Iran. He declared that "every effort to expand development and create a bright future for Iran is both important and necessary." Reflecting on the strength of the public, the Supreme Leader remarked on their "steadfastness and dignity" during the recent spring celebrations. Press TV highlighted his comments that the "heroic nation of Iran has connected this year’s Nowruz with epic resolve and honor," despite ongoing regional challenges. A major part of his address honored those who lost their lives during the conflicts that began on February 28. He specifically mentioned an attack on a girls' school in Minab, which resulted in the deaths of 186 individuals. Khamenei described the attack, stating that "the child-killing, monstrous American and Zionist fiends brutally martyred the young saplings of the school." In response to these tragic events, he called on citizens in both cities and rural areas to join a coordinated tree-planting campaign. He conveyed that the Iranian people are "planting the sapling of hope across its land" in memory of those lost in the "ongoing war." He expressed hope that, through these efforts, "each of these saplings may grow into a blessed and fruitful tree in the coming years," according to Press TV.