Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has warned the United States against initiating any military confrontation, stating that such a move would trigger a regional war rather than a limited conflict.
Khamenei made the remarks on Saturday while addressing thousands of Iranians from different walks of life during a meeting marking the beginning of celebrations for the 47th anniversary of the victory of Iran’s Islamic Revolution.
“The Americans should know that if they start a war, this time it will be a regional war,” Khamenei said, dismissing U.S. military threats involving warships and aircraft as intimidation tactics that have no effect on the Iranian nation.
He stressed that Iran does not seek war or aggression, saying the country has no intention of attacking or oppressing any nation. However, he warned that Iran would respond decisively to any act of aggression. “Anyone who seeks to attack or cause harm will face a decisive blow from the Iranian nation,” he said.
Addressing the long-standing tensions between Tehran and Washington, Khamenei said the conflict could be summarized simply, claiming the United States seeks to dominate Iran while the Iranian people and the Islamic Republic resist such efforts.
“The United States wants to devour Iran; the Iranian nation and the Islamic Republic prevent this,” he said, adding that Iran will continue to stand firm and, with divine help, put an end to what he described as U.S. mischief and harassment.
Khamenei also referenced the period before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, stating that for over three decades, American influence dominated Iran’s oil, politics, security, and national resources. He accused Washington of attempting to regain control after losing its grip.
Highlighting Iran’s strategic importance, the Supreme Leader said the country’s oil, gas reserves, mineral wealth, and geographic location remain key attractions for U.S. interests.
