Khamenei Returns with Stark Warning to the U.S.
Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei ‘s Statement – In his first public remarks since June 19, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a prerecorded speech on state television Thursday, declaring that Iran had dealt a “slap to America’s face” by striking a U.S. air base in Qatar. The 86-year-old supreme leader appeared hoarse and occasionally stumbled over his words, but his message was clear: any further attacks on Iran would come at a “heavy price.”
Khamenei downplayed recent U.S. strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, dismissing President Trump’s claim that the attacks “completely and fully obliterated” Iran’s nuclear program. “They could not achieve anything significant,” he said, notably omitting any update on the status of Iran’s centrifuges or facilities.
Iranian Retaliation vs. U.S. Claims
Khamenei framed Monday’s attack on the Qatar base as proof that Iran “has access to important U.S. centers in the region and can act against them whenever it deems necessary.” He insisted the strike was more than symbolic:
- “A hand slap to America’s face” delivered in retaliation for U.S. bunker-busters and cruise missiles.
- Future threats: “This action can be repeated in the future. Should any aggression occur, the enemy will definitely pay a heavy price.”
The White House dismissed Khamenei’s portrayal, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt calling the U.S. strikes “wildly successful” and accusing Iran’s leader of trying to “save face.”
Damage to Nuclear Sites Confirmed by U.N. Watchdog
Though Khamenei minimized the impact, the International Atomic Energy Agency’s director, Rafael Grossi, told RFI the damage at Iranian nuclear facilities is “very, very, very considerable,” and he assumes the centrifuges are non-operational. Iran’s own Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, admitted Wednesday, “our nuclear installations have been badly damaged, that’s for sure.” The IAEA has yet to gain access for an independent assessment.
Iron Dome Tested as Iran Fires Hundreds of Missiles on Israel
Iran’s Leadership in Hiding Since War Outbreak
Since Israel’s June 13 attack on Iranian nuclear sites and key military figures, Khamenei has stayed out of public view, reportedly sheltering in a secret location. His return underscores the regime’s intent to project resilience after a 12-day conflict that saw:
- More than 550 missiles fired by Iran at Israel (90% interception rate).
- Israel striking over 720 Iranian military targets and eight nuclear-related sites.
- Casualties: Iran reports 606 killed, 5,332 wounded; Human Rights Activists estimate 1,054 killed (417 civilians) and 4,476 wounded. Israel cites 28 dead and over 1,000 wounded.
Rising Iran Tensions Prompt US Withdrawals in Middle East
Ceasefire Brings Cautious Normalcy
A ceasefire negotiated with U.S. help took effect Tuesday, and life in Iran is beginning to return to normal. Thursday saw:
- Partial reopening of airspace for domestic and international flights over eastern Iran.
- Shops in Tehran and town traffic resuming.
- Ministry of Roads spokesperson Majid Akhavan confirmed flights transiting Iranian airspace have resumed in half the country.
Meanwhile, Trump suggested next-week talks between American and Iranian officials—though Iran has neither confirmed nor denied such discussions.
Iran Moves to Limit U.N. Oversight
Amid tensions, Iran’s parliament fast-tracked a proposal to halt cooperation with the IAEA, risking future monitoring of its nuclear program. This move signals Tehran’s resistance to external checks even as its leader publicly asserts Iran’s strength.
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