Tehran. In his first official address since assuming office, Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Syed Mujtaba Khamenei, issued a stern message to neighboring Muslim-majority nations on Thursday, while he demanded that regional countries clarify their stance in the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel. Mujtaba Khamenei emphasized that Iran remains committed to defending its sovereignty and will continue the struggle against those responsible for the deaths of its citizens. This statement follows the transition of power in Iran after the death of his father and former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in US-Israeli strikes.
Demand for Strategic Clarity from Muslim Neighbors
During his address, Mujtaba Khamenei urged neighboring countries to decide where they stand in this historic confrontation. He stated that the Islamic Republic doesn't seek to establish dominance or colonialism in the region but won't tolerate any aggression against its homeland. According to officials, Khamenei advised neighbors to distance themselves from forces that have acted as 'killers' of the Iranian people. He stressed that for regional peace, it's imperative for all Muslim nations to unite and oppose foreign intervention in the Middle East.
Ultimatum on Foreign Military Installations
The Iranian leadership expressed grave concerns regarding the presence of foreign military bases in neighboring territories, while mujtaba Khamenei demanded the immediate closure of these facilities, asserting that some bases were utilized for operations against Iran during recent escalations. He remarked that the US claims of establishing security and peace are entirely baseless and that these bases only serve as sources of regional instability. Iran warned that any future provocations could lead to these bases being targeted, consistent with recent retaliatory measures taken by Iranian forces.
Strategic Impact on the Strait of Hormuz
Iran has hardened its stance on the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The Supreme Leader announced that, in accordance with the will of the people, this waterway will remain closed. As a critical route for global oil supplies, the closure of the strait is expected to have significant implications for international energy markets, while khamenei clarified that as long as aggression against Iran persists, the conflict will continue. He also praised the 'bravery' of Hezbollah, Yemeni forces, and Iraqi groups, describing them as essential components of the resistance front.
Commitment to Retaliation and Resistance
Acknowledging the challenge of upholding his father's legacy, Mujtaba Khamenei delivered a resolute message regarding national defense. He stated that occupying the seat once held by Imam Khomeini and his father is a profound responsibility. He assured the nation that Iran would avenge the blood of every martyr. According to Khamenei, this retaliation won't be limited to the martyrdom of top leaders but will encompass every citizen who lost their life in foreign attacks. He described this as a core 'revolutionary commitment' of the state.
Geopolitical Dilemma for Gulf Cooperation Council States
The demands made by Mujtaba Khamenei present a complex diplomatic challenge for Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar. These countries currently maintain strong security and defense alliances with the United States, while uS military bases are integral to their national security frameworks, providing a guarantee against regional threats. Closing these bases, as demanded by Iran, wouldn't only increase security risks for these nations but also jeopardize their economic and strategic ties with Washington. As of now, there has been no official response from these nations regarding Iran's ultimatum.