Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei asserted on Thursday that Iran will strike back at American military bases in the Middle East if the U.S. were to attack again. This statement marks his first televised address since a ceasefire was established following intense hostilities between Iran and Israel.
Khamenei, 86, praised what he termed a victorious response to recent events, specifically referencing an Iranian missile attack on the largest U.S. base in Qatar. He described this assault as a “slap in the face” to America, particularly after President Trump aligned with Israeli military operations against Iran. “The Islamic Republic has access to important American centres in the region and can act in response to aggression,” he explained, signaling a resilient stance despite ongoing tensions.
President Trump previously indicated that the U.S. would retaliate if Iran resumed its nuclear enrichment activities after the military strikes. Tehran has consistently denied claims from Western leaders that it is pursuing nuclear weapons, maintaining that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.
This rhetoric from Khamenei aligns with past statements from Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who highlighted Iran’s readiness to respond firmly to aggression. The situation unfolds against a backdrop of escalating military actions and an urgent need for diplomatic engagement to prevent further conflict.
Amid these tensions, there remains a sliver of hope for stability as international efforts for dialogue and resolution are ongoing. Both sides have experienced significant military actions leading to casualties and destruction, but there is ample recognition of the importance of diplomacy in mitigating the risk of broader war. As regional and global stakeholders advocate for peaceful negotiations, the prospect of a diplomatic solution continues to offer a beacon of hope in an otherwise tumultuous landscape.
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