Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, says Strait of Hormuz must remain closed
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Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said the Strait of Hormuz must remain closed as leverage against the United States and warned that attacks in the region would continue.
In his first statement since assuming leadership, Khamenei said US military bases in the region could be targeted if they remain operational.
The statement was read by a news anchor on Iranian state television, and Khamenei did not appear on camera.
He said the claim that the United States brings security and peace to the region was false and urged Washington to shut its military bases in the area.
Khamenei also vowed to avenge those killed in the war and said Iran would obtain compensation from its enemies. He said that if compensation is refused, Iran would take assets or destroy them to the same extent.
He said that a limited portion of the retaliation had already taken place, but added that the pursuit of revenge would remain a priority until it is fully achieved. He also said Iran would resist with full force and avenge the deaths of citizens as well as those of his father, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei.
The Iranian leader said he would continue the path of his father and would not forget the blood of those killed in the conflict.
Khamenei also thanked allied armed groups across the region, including fighters linked to Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and allied groups in Iraq.
On the same day, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian outlined three conditions to end the conflict with the United States and Israel. In a message posted on X, he said any resolution must recognise Iran’s legitimate rights, provide compensation for damages, and guarantee that the country will not face future attacks.
Iran’s continued attacks on shipping and energy infrastructure in the Persian Gulf have pushed oil prices above 100 dollars a barrel, as strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran continue with no clear end to the conflict.