Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, issued his first public warning to the United States on Thursday, promising retaliation for the blood of Iranian martyrs and threatening attacks on US military installations in the region.
In a statement broadcast on state television, Mojtaba Khamenei referenced the victims of an elementary school attack in Minab, where Iran reports 175 deaths, including numerous children, during the first day of the conflict.
“Those responsible for shedding the blood of our martyrs will be held accountable,” Khamenei said, emphasizing that all US bases in the region should be closed and warning of potential future strikes.
Despite the hostilities, Khamenei maintained that Iran still pursues a policy of “friendship” with neighboring states, even as the Iranian blockade of the Strait of Hormuz continues to be used as leverage against the United States.
The warning coincides with the International Energy Agency reporting severe disruptions in global oil supply, pushing crude prices above $100 per barrel after additional tanker attacks in the Gulf.
Meanwhile, Israel announced expanded military operations in Lebanon, citing threats from Hezbollah and claiming territorial objectives.
Analysts say Khamenei’s first public address underscores Iran’s strategy of combining military pressure with economic leverage, raising concerns over the stability of Gulf oil transit routes and broader regional security.