TEHRAN (HRNW): In his first official message since assuming leadership, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed a “relentless and regret-inducing” retaliation against the United States and Israel. The address, delivered via state media on Thursday, March 12, 2026, marks a significant escalation in the ongoing regional conflict.
The message was read aloud by a state television anchor accompanied by a portrait of the new leader, as Mojtaba Khamenei remains in a secure, undisclosed location following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in the opening strikes of the war.
Key Highlights of the Address:
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Vow of Individual Revenge: The Supreme Leader emphasized that retaliation would not be limited to the martyrdom of high-ranking officials. “Every member of the nation martyred by the enemy is an independent case for revenge,” he stated, promising that the blood of every citizen, including his own family members killed in recent strikes, would be avenged.
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Strait of Hormuz to Remain Closed: Reaffirming Iran’s strategic leverage, he declared that the Strait of Hormuz must remain closed to exert maximum pressure on global energy markets and adversaries. The closure has already triggered what experts call the “largest oil disruption in history,” pushing prices above $100 per barrel.
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Ultimatum to Regional Neighbors: In a direct warning to Gulf states, Khamenei urged the immediate closure of U.S. military bases on their soil. “If these bases are not closed, our attacks will continue,” he warned, describing U.S. security guarantees as “nothing more than a lie.”
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Praise for National Unity: He lauded the Iranian people for their resilience and solidarity during the transition of power, calling them a “great and steadfast nation” that has refused to bow under military pressure.
Strategic Context
The address comes at a time of extreme volatility. Following the joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026, Iran has launched over 3,100 missiles and drones across the region. While Khamenei expressed a desire for “friendship with neighbors,” he maintained that any territory hosting “invader” forces remains a legitimate target.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation as Quds Day rallies approach, with the new Supreme Leader calling for massive public participation to demonstrate the “Resistance Front’s” strength.
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