In his first public address since taking office, Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei said Tehran does not intend to abandon its pledge to “avenge the blood of the martyrs.”
“We will not abandon vengeance for the blood of the martyrs. We will secure retribution, including for those killed in Minab, and we will not retreat from this objective.”
He also said the Strait of Hormuz must remain closed and should continue to be used as an instrument of pressure.
“The Strait of Hormuz must remain closed, and the mechanism for blocking it must continue to be used.”
Khamenei called for the closure of all American military bases in the region and warned that these facilities could become targets of attack.
“All American bases in the region must be closed. These bases will be attacked.”
Speaking about the domestic situation, the new supreme leader urged society to preserve unity.
“Unity among all individuals and groups of the nation—that which becomes most visible in difficult moments—must not be undermined. It can be preserved by overlooking points of disagreement.”
He also said that Iran intends to obtain compensation from its adversary.
“We will obtain compensation from the enemy in any case. If they refuse, we will seize the corresponding amount from their assets. And if that proves impossible, we will destroy an equivalent amount of their property.”
Khamenei also stressed that the Islamic Republic does not seek domination or colonial influence in the region.
“We do not seek domination or colonial influence. We are ready for unity and warm relations with all neighboring states.”
He also said that additional options for military pressure are under consideration.
“We have already examined the possibility of opening new fronts in areas where the adversary has limited experience and is vulnerable. These scenarios could be implemented if the war continues and if we deem it appropriate.”
In his message, Khamenei also addressed the countries of the region.
“The countries of the region must determine their position toward those who carried out aggression against our beloved homeland and killed our people.”
He urged states to close the American bases located on their territory as soon as possible.
“I recommend that they close these bases as soon as possible. By now they should understand that the United States’ claims that its presence brings security and peace were nothing more than a lie.”