This extreme publicity is all the more surprising in view of Soleimai's command of the most secretive and sensitive branch of the IRGC. The Quds force is the expeditionary wing of the Revolutionary Guards and spearheads Iran's engagement with pro-Iranian armies, militias and political factions across the region.
Iran Commander Soleimani has said that Obama's statement that the US does not intend to overthrow the Islamic Republic is a declaration of inability rather than one of kindness.