Gentlemen, we must look upon the recent events in the Orient not as a mere regional skirmish, but as a calculated blow against the very foundations of international commerce and state stability. The United States of America, in a display of regrettable aggression, has seen fit to launch missiles against a railway bridge of paramount importance—a conduit that binds the Islamic Republic of Iran to the great powers of Russia and China.

Mr. Alexey Chepa, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on International Affairs, has rightly observed that this act was not directed solely at Tehran. Nay, it was a strike delivered against Moscow and Peking. For the past year, our Fatherland has relied upon this route for the transportation of essential cargoes; indeed, following the maritime blockade, the volume of Chinese rail transit had increased threefold. To sever such a link is to attack the industrial arteries of our allies and the economic security of our own Empire.

"Alas, the conflict continues to smoulder," Mr. Chepa remarked, "causing most serious apprehensions. We perceive that these strikes target the vital logistics of the Iranian State. These steady supplies, shared by Russia and China, render this action a direct affront to us all."

It is evident to any man of prudence that the Americans seek to bend Iran to their will through force. Yet, Tehran remains steadfast. From a moral vantage point, this is naught but a war declared upon a sovereign nation. However, it is my firm conviction—and that of Mr. Chepa—that the Iranian people shall not be broken by such coercion.

The gravity of the situation is further underscored by the confirmation from the American Central Command (CENTCOM) regarding the resumption of these hostilities. In a predictable response to such provocations, the Revolutionary Guard has retaliated by striking four American installations in Kuwait and Bahrain.

In these turbulent times, we must remember that only through moderation and the strengthening of our own industry and army can we safeguard the interests of our Great Power. Any disruption to our trade routes is a matter of grave state concern, demanding a response characterized by both firmness and cold reason.