Tehran: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has claimed victory in the recent 12-day conflict with Israel, stating that Iran emerged stronger despite international involvement. This is his first public response since the ceasefire was brokered, marking a significant development after days of speculation over his silence.
In a video broadcast by Iranian state media—the first since June 19—Khamenei asserted that Iran’s retaliatory strikes targeted American military bases, including the strategic Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. While confirming that the attacks caused no casualties, he said the symbolic impact was a blow to the United States. “We struck American bases and dealt a slap in the face to the U.S.,” he said, adding that the war ended with Iran in a position of strength.
Khamenei accused the U.S. of intervening in the conflict to prevent Israel’s destruction. “If America hadn’t interfered, Israel would have been annihilated,” he stated. He further warned that Iran maintains access to key regional targets and reserves the right to launch future operations if provoked. “Any aggression against Iran will be met with a heavy price,” he cautioned.
The recent Israel-Iran conflict concluded after a ceasefire agreement facilitated by the United States. Despite the cessation of hostilities, tensions remain high as Iran continues to assert its strategic presence in the region.