Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has told military commanders that regional countries concluded the US military presence in the Gulf “has failed to ensure their lasting security” and “relying on America for security has been an unrealistic and ineffective notion”, Al Jazeera reports.

According to a statement from Iran’s presidential office, Pezeshkian also called for updating Iran’s defence structure, warning “the enemy has acquired new technologies and tools”.

The armed forces must pursue “the technological edge and enhancing defence capabilities” through greater use of universities, scientific centres, and knowledge-based companies, it said.

Pezeshkian also thanked the military for its “commitment to professional duties and avoidance of political and partisan issues”.