In his latest written statement, issued weeks after the death of his father Ali Khamenei on February 28 at the start of the conflict, he stressed that Iran’s position remains defensive. “We did not seek war and we do not want it,” the message said, while adding that Iran would not abandon its “legitimate rights under any circumstances.”
He also referred to the broader “resistance front,” an apparent reference to regional allies including Hezbollah in Lebanon, signaling Tehran’s continued alignment with its partners in the region. Khamenei warned that those responsible for attacks on Iran would not go unpunished.
The statement comes amid a fragile two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States, raising cautious hopes for potential peace negotiations after weeks of intense escalation and threats from US President Donald Trump.
Khamenei further urged countries in the region to closely observe developments, describing the current moment as critical and calling for informed positions. He also indicated that Iran would move into a “new phase” in managing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route.
Addressing the Iranian public, he emphasized the importance of continued civic presence, saying public demonstrations remain influential in shaping the outcome of negotiations despite the ceasefire.
Mojtaba Khamenei, who was reportedly wounded in the strike that killed his father, has not appeared publicly since assuming leadership. His messages have been delivered in written form and read out on state television. While speculation about his condition has circulated, Iranian state media maintains that he is recovering and has released photographs without confirming when they were taken.
