Mujtaba Khamenei Warns US and Israel, Vows to Close Hormuz Strait

In his first official statement since assuming office, Iran's new Supreme Leader Mujtaba Khamenei has adopted a defiant stance against the United States and Israel. In a message read on state television, Khamenei asserted that Iran wouldn't succumb to international threats or pressure. He declared that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz would remain closed and emphasized that Iran is prepared to avenge every death and martyrdom. This statement comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, signaling a continuation of Iran's hardline foreign policy.

Strategic Closure of the Strait of Hormuz

Mujtaba Khamenei highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, stating that its closure is a necessary measure against enemy aggression. He vowed that Iran would seek retribution for its martyrs, specifically mentioning those from Minab, while according to the Supreme Leader, the blood of Iranian citizens and soldiers won't be forgotten, and the nation remains committed to a policy of retaliation. He also praised the Iranian military for its steadfastness in defending the country's sovereignty and responding to external threats.

Warnings Against US Bases and Regional Sovereignty

The Supreme Leader issued a direct warning regarding US military installations across the Middle East. He called upon neighboring countries to remove US military presence from their territories. Khamenei clarified that Iran's military actions weren't directed at neighboring nations but were focused on US bases used as launchpads for attacks against Iran. He reiterated that while Iran seeks to maintain positive relations with its neighbors, it won't hesitate to neutralize threats originating from foreign military bases in the region.

Compensation and Retaliatory Property Seizure

Khamenei stated that Iran would demand and ensure compensation for damages caused by enemy actions. He warned that if the enemy fails to provide compensation, Iran would seize or destroy enemy property as deemed necessary, while this approach is framed as a strategic deterrent aimed at holding adversaries accountable for military and economic losses. The Supreme Leader emphasized that the scale of property destruction or seizure would be proportional to the damages sustained by Iran.

Support for the Resistance Front and Hezbollah

Expressing gratitude toward the Resistance Front, Mujtaba Khamenei lauded the efforts of Hezbollah and the Iraqi resistance, while he noted that despite significant challenges, Hezbollah has remained a steadfast ally of Iran. Khamenei described the nations and groups within the Resistance Front as Iran's closest friends, united by a common cause. He reaffirmed Iran's commitment to supporting these entities, suggesting that regional cooperation among these groups will remain a cornerstone of Iran's strategic defense policy.