Iran's defense dignified -- supreme leader

TEHRAN, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- The advancements in defense made by the Islamic republic are no threat, but an example of progress and dignity, the supreme leader of Iran said.

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei spoke before graduating military cadets, addressing the defense capabilities of the nation.

He told the graduates that the "great might" of Iran poses no threat to its neighbors and other nations, noting the "world bullies" would fail in their plans to cast the Islamic republic in a negative light.

"The world bullies will fail in materializing the Iran-phobia project, because the national might of the Islamic republic is not only no threat for nations but also an example for progress and the dignity of nations," he said in statements posted on his Web site.

He went on to add that influence is not obtained through a relationship with the West, but through national pride in its abilities.

"Dignity and might will not be gained by depending on America and by endless purchase of weaponry," he said. "It relies on faith and self-confidence."

His comments came on the heels of Sacred Defense Week, a military commemoration of the start of the Iran-Iraq war in 1980, and renewed concerns over Iran's controversial nuclear program.