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The statement was read out by a newscaster, but there has been no sign of life from Mojtaba Khamenei.
By United with Israel Staff
Iran’s newly installed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, delivered his first public message on Thursday afternoon, calling for continued pressure on the United States and its allies and urging Iranians to rally behind the regime.
The statement was broadcast on Iranian state television, where a presenter read Khamenei’s written message while an older stock photograph of him appeared in the background. No current images or live video of the new leader were shown during the broadcast.
In the message, Khamenei called for unity among Iranians and urged citizens to participate in upcoming demonstrations marking Quds Day, the annual regime-backed event focused on opposition to Israel.
He also issued a direct warning to the United States, declaring that American military bases in the region must be closed and suggesting they could face attacks.
“All U.S. bases in the region must be shut down immediately,” the message said, adding that such facilities could become targets.
Khamenei also emphasized the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a key tool for applying pressure on Iran’s enemies.
“The Strait of Hormuz must remain closed,” the statement said, arguing that maintaining the disruption would serve as leverage against adversaries.
Addressing neighboring countries, Khamenei attempted to reassure regional governments that Iran sought friendly relations, while insisting that any future military actions would be directed only at foreign bases in the region.
At the same time, the new leader vowed that Iran would continue seeking revenge for those he described as martyrs, including victims of an incident at a school in Minab.
“We will not stop avenging the blood of our martyrs,” the statement said.
Khamenei also called on Iranians to demonstrate their support for his leadership, urging citizens to take to the streets and show unity behind the Islamic Republic.
The unusual format of the announcement, delivered without a live appearance by the new supreme leader, fueled further questions about his public profile and the circumstances surrounding the transition of power in Tehran.
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