Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei declared on Monday that tensions with the United States stem from irreconcilable ideological differences rather than temporary policy disputes, framing the conflict as a battle of opposing interests during a speech to students in Tehran.
Speaking ahead of Student Day – which marks the 1979 seizure of the U.S. embassy – Khamenei claimed captured documents revealed the embassy functioned as a “hub for conspiracies” against Iran's Islamic Revolution. He asserted these revelations exposed America's “true nature” as an adversary.
The leader dismissed recent U.S. overtures for cooperation as contradictory to Washington's ongoing military support for Israel. Khamenei outlined prerequisites for dialogue, demanding the U.S. cease backing Israel, withdraw regional forces, and halt “meddling” in Middle Eastern affairs.
Analysts suggest the remarks reinforce Tehran's stance amid stalled nuclear negotiations and escalating regional tensions. The speech coincided with heightened scrutiny of Iran's geopolitical maneuvers across Asia and beyond.
