Iran's New Supreme Leader Issues Threats Against the US and Israel in First Address.

Address from Iran's New Leader

According to TSN.ua: In his first public address since assuming the role, Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, called for national unity and issued threats against the United States and Israel. The speech was broadcast on Iranian state television. Khamenei confirmed the death of his wife, who was killed during an attack on February 28, and vowed revenge for those lost in the conflict. His ascension to the leadership position marks a critical juncture for Iran's domestic and foreign policy.

Key Statements from Khamenei

Khamenei asserted that Iran would not leave the actions of its enemies unanswered. He specifically declared that:

• 'Iran will either receive compensation from its enemy or destroy their assets.'
• The presence of American bases in some regional countries, and their use for attacks against Iran, is not beneficial and demands their closure. 'They must be shut down,' Khamenei added.

Furthermore, he outlined a strategy of closing the Strait of Hormuz as a tool to pressure the US and Israel. These statements indicate the new leader's intent to continue Iran's hardline international policy, focusing on security issues and national unity. The Strait of Hormuz is a globally critical chokepoint for oil shipments, making any threat to its closure a matter of international economic concern.

Khamenei's address underscores a continuation of Iran's aggressive foreign policy, which risks further escalating regional tensions. Given recent events, monitoring the response from the United States and its allies is crucial, as it will impact stability in the Middle East. Threats to close the Strait of Hormuz are likely to cause significant alarm within the international community.