Title: Iran Hosts World Military Archery Championship, Championing Peace and Ancient Heritage
In a ceremony rich with cultural and historical significance, the fourth edition of the International Army Archery Championship (CISM 2025) was officially inaugurated in Tehran, hosted by the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Air Force.
A Symbol of Faith and Focus
Addressing the opening event, Amir Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, Chief of Staff and Deputy Coordinator of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army, highlighted the profound roots of archery in Iranian-Islamic culture. “Today, we have gathered in a land where the bow and arrow have not only been tools of war and defense but also a symbol of faith, mental concentration, and inner balance,” he stated.
Citing religious texts, Rear Admiral Sayyari noted that in the Holy Quran, archery is presented as a manifestation of preparedness and discipline, with reliable hadiths and narratives recommending the learning of defensive skills to Muslims.
Echoes of a Legendary Hero
Paying tribute to the legendary Iranian figure Arash the Archer, the senior military commander underscored the special place of archery in the nation’s identity. “The great name of Arash the Archer has deep roots in the history of this land. With the release of an arrow from his bow, he brought peace and tranquility to his country,” he said.
He drew a powerful parallel for the modern competition, emphasizing, “Every arrow released in this field today is a symbol of Arash’s shot, meant to cast not distance but friendship among nations; the very achievement that shines today in the CISM motto: ‘Friendship Through Sport’.”
A Platform for Global Friendship and Trust
Rear Admiral Sayyari expressed pride that the Islamic Republic of Iran is once again hosting the CISM family, with Tehran, a city at the foot of the majestic Alborz Mountains, ready to witness military skill, mutual respect, and friendly camaraderie among the world’s military champions.
He stressed that hosting this tournament is more than just a sporting event for Iran. “It is a sign of trust, stability, and the growing position of Islamic Iran in the global military sports community,” he affirmed.
The commander elaborated that the gathering pursues a goal beyond healthy global competition. “Victory is not solely summarized in accurate targeting,” he declared. “The ultimate achievement of CISM is a sense of trust, respect, and friendship among nations. We believe that every CISM event strengthens the foundation of peace and friendship and resonates the message of aversion to war throughout the world.”
Sport as a Pillar of National Strength
On the sidelines of the ceremony, Rear Admiral Sayyari also spoke to reporters about the role of sport in enhancing the capabilities of the armed forces. “Sport is a very important matter for the health of human beings, and a society that is ill cannot progress,” he said. “In the armed forces, sport is a crucial variable in ensuring the health of the youth who guarantee the future of the country.”
He added that a “healthy body builds a healthy mind,” which is why military organizations dedicate four days a week to sports. This regimen aims to cultivate healthy and skilled individuals prepared to face future challenges.
Concluding the inauguration, after emphasizing the enduring link between Islam, Iranian culture, and chivalric ethics, Rear Admiral Sayyari officially declared the games open. He wished all participants health, success, and honor, expressing the hope that the day’s outcome would be “peace, empathy, and friendship among nations, in addition to records and medals.”