Tehran – Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called U.S. owned Qatar airbase attack: a “harsh slap” against a “highly sensitive” site, showing that Tehran is ready and willing to take further moves if needed. Iran’s Supreme Leader, gave a major speech on July 16. He spoke at the Imam Khomeini Hussainiyah in Tehran. It was his first public address since the ceasefire that ended the 12-day conflict with Israel. Speaking to top judiciary officials, Khamenei repeated Iran’s strong stance. He focused on themes of power, unity, and retaliation.
Khamenei gave a clear warning about military matters: Iran is ready to hit back much harder than it did in the most recent battle if more strikes happen.
He said the conflict was a test that Iran passed. The country showed strength and national unity. Khamenei blamed Israel and the United States for attacking Iran’s military and nuclear sites. These attacks, he said, aimed to weaken the government. He rejected the idea that Iran was weak. He claimed foreign plots had failed. According to him, the Iranian people showed “magnificent unity,” which must be preserved.
Internal discipline:
Khamenei called for internal discipline. He warned against public criticism of diplomats and the armed forces. He said criticism should be made respectfully and with proper understanding. This showed his desire for unity across political and ideological lines.
Khamenei said Iran speaks from a position of strength. He claimed Iran’s actions are backed by logic and military power. Khamenai urged Iranian courts to pursue war crime charges against Israel. He called for this to be done both inside Israel and globally.
Supreme leader also said the conflict had strengthened the regime. According to him, it brought more moral and financial support from within Iran. He dismissed claims that Iranians were divided. Instead, he said the crisis united them.
This speech followed other strong statements by Khamenei this year. He has warned the U.S. against military action and condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. On July 16, his tone was firm and unwavering. His message was clear: Iran remains defiant and determined.
