Iran says its military might helps regional security

By Fredrik Dahl

TEHRAN (Reuters) - President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Saturday a strong Iranian military would help preserve stability in the Middle East, as Iran marked its armed forces' day with a parade that appeared more muted than in the past.

Ahmadinejad gave a relatively low-key speech and there was little sign of the anti-Western banners and slogans normally seen at the annual event.

U.S. President Barack Obama has offered a new beginning of diplomatic engagement with Iran if Tehran "unclenches its fist".

But while Washington favours negotiations to curb Iran's disputed nuclear activities, the advent of a rightist government in Israel has increased international concern that it could go it alone with preventive strikes against Iranian atom sites.

Iran rejects Western accusations that its nuclear programme is aimed at making bombs. It has vowed to retaliate for any attack with missile strikes against Israel and U.S. Gulf assets.

"The power of the Iranian armed forces is at the service of the nations ... and will help to preserve the region's security and stability," Ahmadinejad said in a speech at the parade outside Tehran.

Troops marched in front of the podium where he stood with army officers. Some had uniforms in green, white or red -- the colours of Iran's flag. Others wore combat gear.

Helicopters flew overhead and parachutists dropped down over the parade area near the tomb of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic state.