DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — In a significant statement on Thursday, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that his country had “delivered a hand slap to America’s face.” This proclamation came as he cautioned against any further U.S. attacks, marking his first public remarks since a ceasefire was declared with Israel. Khamenei's comments were broadcasted in a video on Iranian state television, where he appeared visibly more fatigued than during his last public appearance on June 19.
During his address, Khamenei asserted that the United States intervened in the ongoing conflict because it feared that without its involvement, the Zionist regime would face utter destruction. He emphasized that the U.S. “achieved no gains from this war,” reinforcing his position on Iran's perceived victory in the conflict. “The Islamic Republic was victorious and, in retaliation, delivered a hand slap to America’s face,” Khamenei stated, alluding to an Iranian missile strike on an American base located in Qatar earlier in the week, which reportedly resulted in no casualties.
Khamenei did not shy away from issuing further threats, warning that “such an action can be repeated in the future.” He claimed that Iran possesses “access to key U.S. centers in the region” and can take action whenever it deems necessary. His statements highlight the ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly in the wake of military confrontations that have escalated since June.
The 86-year-old Khamenei's public appearances have been sparse since he was compelled to seek refuge in a secure location following the outbreak of hostilities on June 13. This escalation was triggered by Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, which targeted top military commanders and scientists. Notably, after a U.S. airstrike on June 22 that utilized bunker-buster bombs on these nuclear sites, former President Donald Trump played a crucial role in brokering a ceasefire that took effect on Tuesday.
In Thursday's broadcast, Khamenei sat in front of plain brown curtains, mirroring the setting of his previous message from June 19. His remarks underscore the delicate balance of power in the region and the potential for future conflicts as tensions remain high between Iran and the United States, alongside Israel’s ongoing military operations.
