TEHRAN (Realist English). Iran’s newly appointed Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei delivered his first public address on Thursday, calling for national unity, continued military resistance and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict involving the United States and Israel.
“The will of the people is to continue effective defense, and their presence on the scene must be maintained,” Khamenei said. “The Strait of Hormuz must remain closed.”
The new leader began his message with condolences for the death of his predecessor, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the recent escalation of hostilities. He also expressed sympathy to the Iranian people and the broader Muslim world, particularly to families affected by the war.
Khamenei said he learned of the Assembly of Experts’ decision to appoint him as the country’s leader through the national media, like other citizens. He acknowledged the difficulty of assuming a role previously held by two towering figures of the Islamic Republic — Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the revolution, and his successor Ali Khamenei.
“Sitting in a position once occupied by such great leaders is an immense responsibility,” he said, adding that fulfilling the role would require both divine guidance and the support of the Iranian people.
A significant part of the address focused on the role of the public in Iran’s national defense. Khamenei praised what he described as the resilience and determination shown by Iranians during the recent period when the country was temporarily without a supreme leader and commander-in-chief.
“The insight and steadfastness of the Iranian people impressed friends and astonished enemies,” he said. “It was the people who ensured the country’s strength.”
He emphasized that national unity and faith were essential for overcoming the current crisis and called on citizens to remain actively engaged in public life. Khamenei also urged participation in upcoming events such as the annual Quds Day demonstrations held during the final Friday of Ramadan.
The leader praised Iran’s armed forces for what he described as successful operations against hostile powers and commended the broader “resistance front,” including groups and allied actors in Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq.
“Our brave soldiers have halted the enemy’s advance,” he said, adding that Iran’s defense efforts would continue.
Khamenei also pledged that Iran would seek justice for those killed during the conflict. He expressed condolences to the families of victims and noted that members of his own family were among those killed.
“We will not abandon the pursuit of justice for the blood of our martyrs,” he said.
In remarks directed at neighboring countries, the Iranian leader warned governments that host foreign military bases used in attacks against Iran. While stating that Tehran seeks constructive relations with its neighbors, he said Iran would continue targeting foreign installations involved in military operations against the country.
Khamenei concluded his message with a tribute to the late Ali Khamenei and pledged to continue the mission of the Islamic Revolution.
“We will strive with all our strength to raise the banner of truth that you carried,” he said, thanking religious authorities, political leaders and ordinary citizens for their support as he assumes Iran’s highest office.
