Tehran: Iran's Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani appeared publicly Monday for the first time since the outbreak of the war on Feb. 28, praising the 'axis of resistance' for its role during the recent conflict with the US and Israel. Speaking in remarks aired by Iran's Khabar Network, Qaani said the 'axis of resistance' had demonstrated its strength during the war and placed the US and Israel under what he described as a 'spiral of anxiety.'

According to Anadolu Agency, Qaani highlighted the support of Hezbollah for Iran during the conflict and issued a warning that neither the US nor Israel would be able to defeat the Lebanese group. "No one can stand against Hezbollah," Qaani asserted. He also mentioned that despite the war in Gaza, efforts were underway to rebuild Hamas.

Qaani further identified the Bab al-Mandab Strait as a strategic asset for the 'axis of resistance,' cautioning that additional capabilities could be unveiled if deemed necessary. He commended Iran's negotiating team for its firm stance with "the enemy and mediators" following Israeli attacks on Lebanon.

The regional tensions have been escalating since late February when the US and Israel initiated airstrikes on Iran, resulting in over 3,000 fatalities. In retaliation, Tehran launched strikes on Gulf countries and Israel and imposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz. Washington and Tehran managed to reach a temporary truce on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, subsequently agreeing on a framework to conclude the conflict. The formal signing of the accord is anticipated in Switzerland on July 19.