Iran vows to fight on in first message issued in name of Mojtaba Khamenei

Iran vows to fight on in first message issued in name of Mojtaba Khamenei

On Thursday, Iran released its inaugural statement from the leadership of Mojtaba Khamenei, the country’s newly appointed supreme leader, affirming the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the persistence of attacks on US facilities in the region. The message, delivered via state television, was devoid of live or video presentation, leaving lingering questions about whether the son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is truly alive.

Khamenei, 56, declared his intent to demand reparations from Washington for its military actions, stating that if the US refused to comply, he would authorize the destruction of its assets to match the value of Iran’s claims. The announcement comes amid speculation about his health, fueled by the recent assassination of his father’s residence during the initial phase of the US-Israeli offensive. Analysts anticipate the televised message will serve as a critical test of his leadership style, which has been previously characterized by behind-the-scenes influence.

“There must be no harm to the unity of the nation among individuals and groups that often become especially visible in moments of difficulty,” Khamenei asserted, urging the suspension of internal disputes. He further emphasized that “points of disagreement should be set aside” to maintain national cohesion.

Khamenei commended the Iranian populace for their steadfast support of the regime, highlighting their resilience against foreign aggression. “The masses have shown admiration to our allies and astonishment to our adversaries,” he stated, insisting that the people remain the driving force behind Iran’s strategic decisions. He also underscored the necessity of maintaining pressure on the Strait of Hormuz, noting that studies had identified potential vulnerabilities in other fronts.

In addition to praising the Iranian people, Khamenei acknowledged the assistance of the Houthi movement in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Despite the Houthis’ absence from the current conflict, he lauded their willingness to support Iran despite challenges. The leader also vowed to avenge the “blood of your martyrs,” referencing the 175 fatalities from a missile strike on a school in Minab, which US investigations have linked to American responsibility.

Addressing regional dynamics, Khamenei warned that the enemy had established military and financial footholds in Gulf nations over time. “Some bases were used in the recent attack, but we targeted them without aggression toward these countries,” he clarified. He insisted that the ongoing strikes were essential for regional security, while expressing confidence in the potential for stronger ties between Gulf states and their citizens if they disengaged from Washington.

Khamenei revealed that he first learned of his elevation to leadership through television broadcasts, acknowledging the challenge of stepping into the role. He also mourned the loss of several family members in the US-Israeli strike, including his father, wife, sister, and child, whom he described as “adding to the caravan of martyrs.” The body of his father was recently viewed by Khamenei, though no funeral date has been announced.