New Delhi: Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, on Thursday said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed and that Iran should use the leverage in war against the US and Israel, as he called for revenge for the assassination of his father and former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In his first statement after becoming the Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei warned that the attacks on enemy targets in the Middle East will continue, and all US bases in the region should be closed, otherwise they will be attacked. Khamenei did not make a public appearance; instead, his message was broadcast on Iranian television.
Iran to open up new war fronts?
Khamenei signalled a longer conflict in the region, saying that Iran is contemplating opening up new fronts against its enemies if the hostilities with the US and Israel continue.
“The lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must continue to be used. Studies have also been conducted regarding the opening of other fronts in areas where the enemy has little experience and is highly vulnerable; these may be activated if the state of war continues and if it is deemed appropriate,” he said in a written statement.
“We will not overlook avenging the blood of Iran’s martyrs, especially the martyrs of Minab,” the Supreme Leader added.
We will take their assets: Iran
Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran would seek compensation from its enemies for the damage caused during the conflict. He added that if compensation was refused, Iran would take an equivalent amount from their assets, and if that was not possible, it would destroy property of equal value.
He also said the Islamic Republic of Iran does not seek domination or colonial influence in the region and is ready to maintain unity and friendly relations with all neighbouring countries.
Khamenei further stressed the need for national unity, saying that solidarity among all individuals and groups in the country, which often becomes most visible during difficult times, must be preserved. He added that such unity can be achieved by setting aside differences and overlooking disagreements.
“The countries in the region must clarify their position regarding those who have aggressed against our beloved homeland and killed our people. I recommend that they shut down those bases as soon as possible, because by now they must have realised that America’s claim of bringing security and peace has been nothing but a lie,” he added.
