In his foremost public remarks subsequent to the decree of a ceasefire in an interstate conflict, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei aired his assertion of triumph over the state of Israel. The chief also pronounced that his nation had ‘meted out a symbolic blow to the United States,’ in the course of an address which was disseminated live on Iranian national television. It was his inaugural public appearance since the 19th of June, with Khamenei seemingly more wearied than a mere seven days prior.
He communicated to his spectators that the intervention of the United States was motivated by apprehensions that neglect to step in could lead to the absolute decimation of the ‘Zionist regime.’ Nonetheless, he stated, the US was unable to make any advancements from this conflict.
He proclaimed outrightly, ‘The Islamic Republic emerged victorious, dealing a metaphorical slap across America’s face in retribution.’ This statement appears to allude to a missile strike initiated by Iran directed at an American facility in Qatar, which fortunately did not result in any loss of life.
Despite his advanced age of 86, Khamenei has maintained an elusive presence, remaining unseen by the public eye since he sought refuge in a secure undisclosed location. This course of action was brought about by the eruption of the war on 13th June, a war catalyzed by Israel’s assault on Iranian nuclear locations and their explicit pursuit of high-ranking military officials and eminent scientists.
The path to the ceasefire was paved by the concerted American assault on 22nd June, which targeted Iran’s nuclear installations using bunker-buster munitions. The cessation of hostilities then became officially effective from Tuesday.
On the day of his appearance, Thursday, Khamenei chose a simple backdrop of unadorned brown curtains from which to deliver his fraught message. His remarks reflect the heightened tensions in the region and offer a revealing insight into Iran’s stance on the recently concluded conflict and its perception of the conflicting roles played by America and Israel.