Published: Mar 13, 2026, 01:30 IST | Updated: Mar 13, 2026, 01:30 IST
Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has issued his first public message since assuming power, calling for the closure of all U.S. military bases across the Middle East. The statement was broadcast on Iranian state television and did not feature Khamenei appearing in person.
In the message, Khamenei urged Gulf nations hosting American forces to shut down those bases, warning they could become targets if they remain operational.
He also reiterated Iran’s hardline stance amid the ongoing conflict, saying the Strait of Hormuz should remain closed as a pressure point against Iran’s adversaries.
The remarks mark the first official statement attributed to Khamenei since he took over as Iran’s leader following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.