Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said the country’s navy is prepared to confront the United States, warning that enemies would face “new bitter defeats.”
In a statement shared on his Telegram channel, Khamenei, who has not been seen in public since before the war began, praised Iran’s naval forces as “brave” and ready for action. His remarks were echoed in comments carried by The Associated Press, reflecting a defiant tone from Iran’s leadership.
The statement came as Tehran moved to reimpose restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically critical route for global oil shipments. The waterway remains one of the most sensitive chokepoints in international trade, and any disruption could have wide economic implications.
Marking the anniversary of the establishment of Iran’s army, Khamenei also commended recent military operations. He pointed to drone strikes targeting Israel and US-linked interests across the region as evidence of Iran’s growing capabilities during the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington appear stalled. Saeed Khatibzadeh said there is no timeline yet for a second round of talks between the two sides.
Speaking on the sidelines of a forum in Antalya, Khatibzadeh said both countries are still working to agree on a framework before setting a date for further negotiations.
“Until we agree on the framework, we cannot set a date,” he told reporters, indicating that key differences remain unresolved.