TEHRAN (Tasnim) � Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani praised the preparedness of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), saying that had it not been for the forces, the West would have witnessed dozens of terror attacks like those in Paris.

Speaking at an open session of the parliament on Sunday, Larijani highlighted the Quds Force�s role in the fight against terrorism, saying, �If the Quds Force had not been present in the region (to fight) against terrorists, you (the West) would have witnessed tens of (terrorist) incidents like those in Paris.�

He also slammed the recent moves by the US government against Iran over its testing of a long-range cruise missile in October, saying that the IRGC and its Quds Force ensure security for the Iranian nation.

Larijani was referring to a new bill passed by the US Congress and signed by President Barack Obama in December, which will prevent visa-free travel to the United States for people who have visited Iran or hold Iranian nationality.

The US administration officials also on December 30 sent to the Congress the draft of potential new sanctions against international companies and individuals over Iran�s testing of Emad missile on October 10. Although no sanctions seemed imminent, the White House said that they remained an option.

Iran has repeatedly underscored that test of missiles is an issue relating to defense of its territorial integrity.

Tehran has always assured other nations that its military power poses no threat to others, saying that the Islamic Republic�s defense doctrine is entirely based on deterrence.

By Tasnim News Agency