Irans Supreme Leader Khamenei claims surprise victory over US-Israeli forces

Iran’s Supreme Leader Makes Statement on Ongoing Conflict

In a televised address, Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, stated that his country will “demand compensation” for damages resulting from the conflict with Israel and the United States. The statement was made 40 days after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba’s father, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack on the first day of the war.

Khamenei, 58, has not been seen or heard from since the conflict began. In his statement, he claimed that Iran had “astonished the world” during the conflict and stated that Tehran was fighting for its legitimate rights. He also warned that Iran will not leave the country’s aggressors unpunished.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blockaded by Iran since the war began, Khamenei said that his country will move towards a “new phase” without elaborating on the details. The US and Iran have agreed to a two-week ceasefire, with reports indicating that Iran will impose a toll on ships transiting the strait to fund reconstruction efforts.

However, Khamenei warned that Iran is ready to respond if attacks resume. On Wednesday, Israel launched a devastating wave of air strikes across Lebanon, killing over 300 people and threatening the US-Iran truce. The agreement includes Lebanon, according to Iran and Pakistan, but the US and Israel dispute this claim.

World leaders have called for peace in the region, urging all parties to respect the agreement. Khamenei stated that while his country did not start the war, it will not “renounce its legitimate rights under any circumstances.” Delegations from Iran and the US are expected to meet in Pakistan on Saturday to discuss ending the conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera