Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei vows revenge; warns US to withdraw, threatens Hormuz closure

Tehran: Mojtaba Khamenei, who has assumed office as Iran’s new Supreme Leader following the death of his father Ali Khamenei, issued his first message to the nation on Thursday, vowing revenge against Iran’s enemies and warning the United States to withdraw its military presence from the Middle East.

In a strongly worded address, Mojtaba Khamenei said all American military bases in the Middle East must be shut down immediately. The statement came amid escalating tensions after the reported joint military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran.

Addressing the nation for the first time since taking charge, Khamenei declared that Iran would avenge the deaths of its citizens who were killed during the ongoing conflict. “We will take revenge for the blood of our people and ensure that our enemies pay the price,” he said.

He also called on the Iranian public to remain united during the current crisis and urged citizens to participate in large numbers during the upcoming Quds Day, which is observed annually in support of Palestine.

In another major announcement, the new Supreme Leader reiterated Iran’s stance on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, stating that Tehran would continue its decision to block the vital shipping route as part of its economic and trade pressure strategy against its adversaries.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, through which a significant portion of global crude oil shipments pass. Any disruption in this narrow waterway could have major consequences for global energy markets and international trade.

Khamenei said the closure of the strait was intended to counter the economic pressure and military aggression faced by Iran. He also praised Iranian military forces for their courage and resistance at a time when the country is facing what he described as “external aggression and severe pressure.”

According to Iran’s state media, the video message was preceded by a strategic note shared on the messaging platform Telegram. The message reportedly outlined a seven-point strategy aimed at confronting Iran’s enemies and strengthening national unity during the ongoing crisis.

The developments come at a time when tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, raising concerns about wider regional instability and potential impacts on global oil supplies.