TEHRAN: Iran’s new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said in a written message that the country does not seek war with the United States and Israel but will firmly defend its rights.“We did not seek war and we do not want it,” he said in a message read on state television. “But we will not renounce our legitimate rights under any circumstances.” He added that Iran considers the entire “resistance front” as a unified entity and warned that those who attacked the country would not go unpunished.
Khamenei also called on regional neighbours to take a clear and informed stance, describing current developments as significant. He announced that the management of the strategic Strait of Hormuz would enter a new phase.
Addressing the public, he urged citizens to remain active despite the ceasefire, stating that public presence and voices would influence the outcome of negotiations.
Iran recently agreed to a fragile two-week ceasefire with the United States, raising hopes for potential peace talks.Khamenei, who succeeded his father following his death on February 28, has not appeared publicly since his appointment and continues to communicate through written statements broadcast on state media.
