Iran's New Supreme Leader Vows Strong Response After Father's Assassination

Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a strong statement following the assassination of his father, former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes. In his first remarks after assuming the country’s highest leadership role, Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed and warned that Iran will continue its actions against what he described as enemy targets in the region. The statement signals a potential escalation in tensions across the Middle East as Iran responds to the killing of its longtime leader. In a televised address, Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran intends to continue using the closure of the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic tool during the conflict. The crucial waterway, through which a large portion of the world’s oil supply passes, has long been considered a major point of leverage in regional geopolitics. He also warned that all U.S. military bases in the Middle East should be shut down, stating that they could face attacks if they remain operational. Khamenei further indicated that Iran is considering expanding the conflict if hostilities with the United States and Israel continue. According to his written statement, Iran has already conducted studies on opening additional fronts in areas where, he claimed, the enemy has limited experience and is vulnerable. “The lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must continue to be used,” he said, adding that new fronts could be activated if the war continues and if circumstances require it. Reiterating Iran’s stance, he declared that the country would not forget “the revenge for the blood of the martyrs.” The new Supreme Leader also said Iran would seek compensation for the damage caused during the conflict. If such compensation is denied, he warned that Iran would claim equivalent assets from its enemies or destroy property of equal value. At the same time, Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran does not seek domination or colonial influence in the region and remains open to maintaining unity and friendly relations with neighbouring countries. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the longest-serving head of state in the Middle East, was killed during the opening phase of the strikes targeting Tehran. The attack reportedly hit the presidential complex while Khamenei was with members of his family, including Mojtaba’s wife and son, on the 10th day of Ramadan. In his address, Mojtaba Khamenei also emphasised the importance of national unity during difficult times. He said solidarity among citizens and different groups within the country must be preserved, urging people to set aside differences and overlook disagreements. Mojtaba Khamenei’s first statement as Iran’s Supreme Leader reflects a mix of warning and resolve, signalling that the country intends to respond strongly to recent events while calling for unity at home. As tensions remain high in the region, his remarks indicate that the situation could continue to shape the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East in the days ahead.