Speaking at a ceremony honoring the families of martyrs of the recent US-Israeli war, which began on February 28, in Lamerd, Salehi said the conflict would ultimately strengthen Iran’s development trajectory, IRNA reported.
“Just as Ashura became a historic turning point for Islam, the events of this imposed war can become a historic opportunity for the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he said, adding that “the pure blood of the martyrs will underpin a new era of progress and a brighter future.”
The minister said the conflict had tested the nation but also showcased the solidarity and endurance of the Iranian people. He argued that efforts to intimidate society and undermine national cohesion had failed, while public unity and steadfastness had emerged stronger.
Salehi stressed the importance of literature, art and cultural production in preserving the memory of the conflict, saying works centered on the Sacred Defense help reinforce national resilience and sustain the country’s path forward. “The responsibility of cultural figures, artists and media professionals is a heavy one,” he said. “They must faithfully record both the suffering endured by the Iranian people and the acts of courage that arose from it.”
In separate remarks to reporters, Salehi described the missile attack on Lamerd during the opening hours of the war as a symbol of both tragedy and resistance. He said the incident left lasting scars on the community while producing stories of sacrifice that would remain part of Iran’s collective memory.
He called for greater efforts to document and publish accounts related to the Lamerd attack, the Minab school tragedy and the Dena naval vessel incident, saying these events represent enduring testimonies of the hardships faced by the Iranian people and the resilience they displayed in response.
NOURNEWS