Khamenei Breaks Silence: Iran Will Strike Back Harder if US Attacks Continue

After remaining hidden for nearly two weeks during the recent conflict, Iran’s Supreme Leader made his first televised appearance to address the nation and international community. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, appearing noticeably worn and speaking with a hoarse voice, delivered a series of warnings directed primarily at the United States and Israel.
The Iranian leader downplayed the effectiveness of recent US military strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities, contradicting President Trump’s claims of complete destruction. However, UN nuclear watchdog officials confirmed that the damage to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure was indeed “very, very considerable,” suggesting a significant setback to the country’s atomic program.
Iran’s retaliatory strike against a US base in Qatar was highlighted by Khamenei as proof of his country’s ability to reach American interests throughout the region. He characterized this action as just the beginning, warning that similar operations could be repeated if the United States continues its aggressive stance toward Iran.
The ceasefire agreement has allowed both nations to step back from the brink of wider conflict, with Iran beginning to restore normal operations. Air traffic resumed over eastern Iran, shops reopened in Tehran, and citizens cautiously returned to their daily routines after nearly two weeks of war.