Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has warned that Tehran will continue using the threat of closing the Strait of Hormuz as leverage in its confrontation with the United States and Israel.
In his first public statement since taking office, Khamenei said Iran would persist with attacks on Gulf facilities and could target US military bases in the region if the conflict continues. The remarks were read on state television, and the leader did not appear on camera.
«The leverage of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must continue to be used,» Khamenei said in the statement.
The strait is one of the world’s most important energy routes, carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies under normal conditions. Disruption to shipping has already pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel and caused major delays to maritime traffic.
Khamenei also vowed to avenge Iranians killed in the war, including victims of strikes during the ongoing campaign launched by the United States and Israel against Iran.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said the conflict could only end if Iran’s «legitimate rights» were recognised and guarantees were given against future attacks.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has pledged to continue military operations against Iran, claiming the country’s military capabilities have been severely weakened.
The escalating conflict has rattled global energy markets and raised fears of a prolonged disruption to oil supplies if the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed.
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