Mojtaba Khamenei issued his first public message after becoming Iran's Supreme Leader, calling for national unity and participation in the annual Quds Day observances. In a televised address reported by Iranian state media on Thursday, he also demanded the closure of American military bases in the region, The Indian Express reported.
"All US bases should be immediately closed in the region," Mojtaba said in the message. He also warned that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed as part of Iran's strategy to pressure its adversaries. "Tehran will seek compensation from enemies," he added.
Mojtaba further vowed retaliation for Iranians killed in the ongoing conflict. "I would like to thank the brave fighters who are doing a great job at a time when our country is under pressure and under attack," he said.
First address after leadership change
Mojtaba Khamenei assumed the country's top position after his father, Ali Khamenei, was killed during joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Tehran on February 28.
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He was formally chosen as the new Supreme Leader by the 88-member Assembly of Experts. Iranian state television earlier said the leader's strategic message contained seven key sections addressing the role of the public, the armed forces, state institutions, and allied regional groups, as per The Indian Express.
The message also focused on confronting what Iranian authorities describe as external enemies and maintaining unity during the current crisis.
Reports of injury during attack
Before the address, reports had circulated that Mojtaba Khamenei was injured in the same February 28 attack that killed his father. According to a report by The New York Times, three Iranian officials said he suffered injuries to his legs during the strikes.
The report added that he had remained out of public view for several days after assuming leadership, which fuelled speculation about his condition.
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Officials told the newspaper that Mojtaba was alert but avoiding communication to prevent revealing his location. He is believed to be staying in a "highly secure location" as tensions remain high following the recent escalation in the region.
Iranian authorities have not provided further details about his injuries but confirmed that he is continuing to direct the country's response to the ongoing conflict.
