Document Type : Research/Original/Regular Article
Authors
1 Associate Professor, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, Kermanshah University of Technology, Kermanshah, Iran
Abstract
This research examines the foundational pillars of the Iranian nation’s victory in the 12-Day Defense of 2025 against Israel and its supporters through a systematic discourse analysis of the statements delivered by the Supreme Leader during the conflict. The central inquiry investigates which elements are foregrounded in the Leader’s discourse as the principal determinants of the Islamic Republic’s success, and how these elements are discursively constructed to articulate narratives of resistance and triumph. The dataset comprises televised messages and official speeches delivered by the Supreme Leader from the onset to the conclusion of the confrontation. Using a qualitative content analysis informed by discourse-analytical principles, the study identifies three dominant and recurrent components: faith, knowledge, and resolve. Within the discourse, faith is framed as a spiritual and integrative foundation; knowledge is represented as a scientific and technological asset that strengthens deterrence; and resolve is portrayed as the psychological and socio-political driving force of national endurance. The interplay of these elements collectively constructs a coherent representation of Iran’s national power. Furthermore, the findings reveal that the Iranian nation’s resistance is presented not solely as a military endeavor but as an expression of collective will in confronting global hegemonic pressures. By emphasizing these three pillars, the Leader’s discourse not only reinforces internal cohesion but also conveys a clear message of deterrence and strategic confidence to external audiences. This study contributes to the scholarly understanding of the interrelationship among faith, knowledge, and resolve in shaping the Islamic Republic’s resistance discourse.
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