Mojtaba Khamenei, the new supreme leader of Iran, states that Tehran will defend its nuclear and ballistic capabilities as a national asset and claims that the USA has suffered a "shameful defeat".

In a message broadcast by state television, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, the new supreme leader of Iran, declared that the country will defend its nuclear and ballistic capabilities as national assets. Khamenei adopted a provocative tone, emphasizing that the United States suffered a "shameful defeat" in the Iran War. He stated that the presence of Americans in the Persian Gulf is unacceptable and that Iran will continue to control the Strait of Hormuz, essential for oil deliveries.

He also dismissed accusations regarding Iran's nuclear intentions, insisting that the program is peaceful. In the context of rising tensions, Pakistan has offered to facilitate negotiations between the United States and Iran. Khamenei reaffirmed that Iran will not abandon its nuclear and ballistic programs, considering them an integral part of national identity. The international community, including countries in the Persian Gulf, contests Iranian control over the strait, viewing it as an act of piracy.