Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has delivered his first official statement since assuming power, issuing a stark warning to the United States regarding its military presence in the Middle East. The written declaration, which was not delivered publicly, demands the immediate closure of all American military installations across the region.
According to the statement, "All American bases in the region must be shut down immediately, or they will face targeted attacks." This marks a significant escalation in rhetoric from Tehran, representing Khamenei's first major policy position since taking over the country's highest religious and political office.
The ultimatum comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, with American forces maintaining strategic positions across several Middle Eastern countries. Previous reports from international media outlets, including The Guardian, had speculated about Iran's potential response to ongoing regional developments under new leadership.
Military analysts suggest this aggressive posturing reflects Iran's intention to assert its regional influence under Khamenei's leadership, potentially signaling a more confrontational approach than his predecessor. The international community is closely monitoring how Washington will respond to these threats against its military personnel and strategic assets in the region.