Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei delivered a defiant address in Tehran on Sunday, accusing the United States of seeking to impose "obedience" on the Islamic Republic while rejecting calls for direct negotiations. The remarks, reported by state news agency IRNA, framed U.S.-Iran tensions as an ideological struggle rooted in Washington's alleged hostility since the 1979 revolution.
"Resistance Over Submission"
Khamenei characterized U.S. demands as "offensive," stating: "Their goal is to make Iran submit to their will. But our people have shown they will not trade dignity for temporary comforts." He cited a June 13 attack on Iran and subsequent meetings in a European capital by U.S.-aligned groups allegedly plotting a "post-Islamic Republic" political order as evidence of ongoing foreign interference.
Unity Amid External Pressures
The Supreme Leader urged support for newly elected President Masoud Pezeshkian, warning that "enemies seek to exploit any cracks in national unity." His comments come amid regional tensions over Israel's military campaign in Gaza, which Khamenei condemned while praising Yemen's Houthi movement for "resisting oppression."
Analysts suggest the speech reinforces Iran's strategic positioning ahead of potential regional realignments, with implications for energy markets and security dynamics across the Middle East.
