IRGC Deputy Political Chief Brigadier General Yadollah Javani said Israel lacks the ability to wage war against Iran on its own, according to an August 17, 2026 report. In an interview with state television, he claimed Israel would not have dared enter a direct conflict with Iran without military support from the United States.

Javani said Iran is making major changes to its defence strategy by appointing experienced commanders to senior military positions. Under the new approach, he said, Iran would build resistance at the highest level and that defensive operations could become offensive if necessary. He also said Iran’s armed forces were prepared to confront a surprise attack by an enemy.

The IRGC official warned that Iran could create a “strategic surprise” for its adversaries in the future, rather than being caught unprepared by an unexpected strike. Javani further claimed that Israel and the United States failed to achieve their stated objectives during a previous 12-day conflict. He said Israel entered direct confrontation only after receiving US support.