Iran defense expansion and internal security threats

In late July 2026, Iran’s Ministry of Defense and Logistics announced that its defence industry was operating at its most active level, expanding production lines and prioritising the development of air and naval capabilities, including unmanned aerial systems. Deputy Minister Lieutenant General Seyyed Majid Ibn Reza emphasized that domestic scientists and engineers are converting battlefield challenges into indigenous technologies across air, sea, land, space, and electronic warfare, noting that recent attacks on strategic facilities have not hindered development.

A few days later, acting defence minister Majid Emamreza pledged to translate this industrial growth into heightened military readiness. Citing “real and reliable” threats from opponents, even those intended as psychological warfare, he stated that Iran would not be passive but would use such threats to strengthen its deterrent capability and upgrade its armed forces amid rising regional diplomatic pressure.

By mid-August, analysis of Iran’s political and military trajectory suggested a strengthening of hardline influence, with reports indicating the state is doubling down on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and other hardline factions. Experts have warned that the volatility of the regional security landscape could lead to future military actions involving surprise attacks without advance notice.

By mid-August, the security situation has further complicated as Iranian officials expressed heightened concern regarding external threats and internal stability. Judiciary head Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei warned of a “systematic war” targeting the nation and called for unity under the Supreme Leader’s directives. Concurrently, the country faces severe economic strain following US-Israeli conflict, impacting oil revenues and infrastructure. Concerns have risen that upcoming US Treasury measures could reignite domestic protests, a fear reflected in the appointment of Hossein Tayeb, a figure linked to previous crackdown operations, as leader of the Basij paramilitary forces.