Iran Supreme Leader Vows Revenge for Father
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has pledged revenge for the killing of his father and predecessor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The statement was issued shortly after the former leader was buried, more than four months after his death in a US-Israeli airstrike.
Mojtaba Khamenei Vows Revenge for Father
In a written message published through his official Telegram account, Mojtaba Khamenei described retaliation for his father’s killing as a demand of the Iranian people.
He pledged to avenge Ali Khamenei and others killed during Iran’s recent conflicts, accusing the United States and Israel of responsibility for their deaths.
The statement did not provide details about when or how Iran might retaliate. It was Mojtaba Khamenei’s first public communication since becoming Supreme Leader in March.
Ali Khamenei Killed in US-Israeli Strike
Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28 when a joint US-Israeli airstrike targeted his residence in Tehran. Several members of his family were also killed in the attack.
Mojtaba Khamenei was injured but survived. Iran’s Assembly of Experts later selected him to succeed his father, who had led the country for nearly four decades.
The new Supreme Leader has not appeared publicly since assuming office, reportedly because of injuries sustained during the strike.
Iran-US Tensions Remain High
The retaliation pledge comes amid continuing tensions between Iran and the United States despite diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation.
US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran would face overwhelming military retaliation if Tehran attempted to assassinate him.
Meanwhile, regional mediators, including Oman and Qatar, are working to preserve communication between Washington and Tehran and address disputes involving the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear programme and maritime security.
