Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a strong statement demanding what he termed 'blood money' from the United States and Israel for alleged aggressions against his country. In a broadcast address to the Iranian populace, Khamenei declared, "By the grace of God, we will certainly not let go of the criminal aggressors who attacked our country."
He further asserted the nation's intent to seek reparations for all damages incurred, including the recompense for fallen martyrs and the compensation for those wounded in conflict. "We will undoubtedly demand compensation for every single damage inflicted, the blood money of the martyrs, and the diyah of the war-wounded," he stated.
Ayatollah Khamenei also emphasized Iran's position on international relations, noting, "Iran is not seeking war but will not forfeit its rights and considers all resistance fronts as a unified entity." He also alluded to potential developments regarding regional dynamics, saying, "We are still awaiting an appropriate reaction from our southern neighbours so that we can show you our brotherhood."
During his address, which comes as he has not appeared publicly since assuming leadership from his father, Khamenei indicated a potential shift in the management of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, amid heightened regional tensions. He urged pro-Iranian demonstrators to mobilize, stating, "your voices raised in public squares have an impact on the outcome of negotiations."
The statement reiterated Iran's stance: "Iran 'never sought war and we're not seeking war', but will 'not back off from seeking our legitimate rights in any way'," encompassing its regional allies and proxies, referred to as the "entire resistance front."
This declaration follows comments from the head of NATO, who acknowledged that some member states were hesitant to endorse US actions in Iran, a situation exacerbated by pressure from US President Donald Trump. Mark Rutte, speaking in Washington, commended Trump for his "bold leadership and vision" and expressed understanding of the President's dissatisfaction with the transatlantic alliance.
Reports suggest President Trump had previously presented an ultimatum to NATO, demanding that the alliance deploy warships to the Strait of Hormuz or face a withdrawal of American support.
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