Speaking at the ceremony celebrating the Army Day on Tuesday, Rouhani congratulated the Army Day and said: "Army Day reminds us of self-sacrifice and devotion by our brave men in the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran during the 8-year Sacred Defence era".
“Our power is defensive and deterrent, not offensive,” continued Rouhani, adding: "divine faith and motivation is the main feature of our armed forces".
"The name of some armies in the world are reminders of interfering in other countries' internal affairs, genocide, supporting terrorism, coup d'état, and indifference towards the nation's opinions and the constitution, but the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran is reminder of discipline, faith, and legitimately defending the sacred land of Iran, acting within the framework of the law, and national interests," ISNA quoted him as saying.
Rouhani continued: "Today, the capabilities and military power of the ground, air, and navy forces and air defence alongside the powerful IRGC, brave Basij and the police is not comparable with the 8-year Sacred Defence era".
He also said: "Iran's armed forces will be no threat to others and their first step will not be encouraging military confrontation with any country".
"We seek to avoid conflicts and tensions but we must always be vigilant against others' conspiracies, increasing our deterrent power day by day," the Iranian president went on to say.
The Army has carried out its duty, which has been stated in the constitution, well and with devotion, said Rouhani adding: "The defence budget has increased 145% in the 11th government".
He also went on to say: "The government has paid special attention to strengthening the defensive power of the country even in hard times".