Iran’s new Supreme Leader has vowed to seek revenge and continue obstructing the vital Strait of Hormuz, leading to global turmoil. Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei made his first official declaration, broadcasted on state television, expressing his determination to retaliate not only for the deaths of his father and other leaders at the hands of the US and Israel but also for every Iranian life lost in the conflict.
In his statement, Khamenei emphasized the nation’s commitment to avenging the martyrs, stating that each Iranian killed by the enemy will be sought out for retribution. He also pledged to persist in targeting Gulf Arab countries and using the closure of the Strait of Hormuz as a bargaining chip against the United States and Israel. This marks his initial public address since assuming leadership after his father’s assassination by an Israeli airstrike.
Calling on Gulf Arabs to expel US military bases in the region, Khamenei denounced Washington’s promised protection as deceitful. He hinted at exploring unconventional strategies to counter the adversary’s lack of preparedness in potential future confrontations. The 56-year-old leader, suspected of sustaining injuries in the conflict’s early stages, has maintained a low profile since then.
The statement signals Iran’s readiness to prolong the conflict, which has disrupted global energy flows, international travel, and the security of Gulf Arab nations. Iran’s persistent assaults on maritime traffic and energy installations in the Persian Gulf have contributed to oil prices exceeding $100 per barrel.
While US and Israeli strikes have inflicted significant damage on Iran’s military capabilities, the government remains intact despite efforts to overthrow it, a goal indicated by former US President Donald Trump. Iran aims to impose economic pressure globally to compel the United States and Israel to cease hostilities that commenced on February 28, resulting in the deaths of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba’s father, and the younger Khamenei’s wife.
In contrast, Trump has reaffirmed his commitment to “complete the mission,” despite asserting that Iran is severely weakened. He emphasized the prevention of Iran’s nuclear armament as a higher priority over escalating oil prices in a recent social media post.
Additionally, Iran-backed Hezbollah militants launched approximately 200 rockets from Lebanon towards northern Israel, prompting Israeli counterattacks on targets in Tehran and Lebanon. The ensuing clashes resulted in casualties on both sides, with 11 fatalities reported in Lebanon. The United Nations refugee agency disclosed that about 3.2 million individuals in Iran have been displaced due to the ongoing conflict, with a significant exodus from major cities towards rural areas. Internal displacement in Lebanon has also reached around 800,000 people, raising concerns about a looming humanitarian crisis.
