Leader issues message amid fragile US-Iran ceasefire
TEHRAN: Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated that the country does not seek war with the United States or Israel but will firmly defend its national rights, according to a message broadcast on state television Thursday.
“We did not seek war and we do not want it,” Khamenei said in the written statement. However, he emphasized that Iran would not renounce its legitimate rights under any circumstances. He also referred to the broader “resistance front,” signaling continued alignment with regional allies, particularly in Lebanon.
The statement comes weeks after the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed at the start of the conflict on February 28. Since assuming leadership, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared publicly, reportedly due to injuries sustained during the same attack.
Calls for vigilance and public engagement in national affairs
Meanwhile, Khamenei urged neighboring countries to closely monitor regional developments, describing recent events as significant and requiring informed responses. He also announced plans to shift the management of the strategic Strait of Hormuz into a new phase, highlighting its geopolitical importance.
In addition, he encouraged Iranian citizens to remain actively engaged, stressing that public participation could influence ongoing negotiations. “Your voices in public squares are undoubtedly influential,” he noted.
The remarks follow a fragile two-week ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States, which could potentially open the door to formal peace talks. Nevertheless, tensions remain high as both sides navigate a complex diplomatic landscape.
