Iran’s New Leader Issues First Statement, Escalates Threats Against U.S. Bases, Says Hormuz Must Stay Closed

Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued his first public statement since assuming power, warning that United States military bases in the Middle East could face attacks if they remain operational.

In a message broadcast on Iranian state television on Thursday, Khamenei declared that the strategic Strait of Hormuz should remain closed, describing the move as a “tool to pressure the enemy” amid escalating tensions in the region.

The new Iranian leader also insisted that all U.S. military bases across the Middle East must be shut down, warning that they would otherwise be considered legitimate targets.

Khamenei’s remarks come just days after he formally succeeded his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed during the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

In the statement, the Iranian leader praised the country’s military forces and said attempts to destabilise or divide Iran had failed. He also suggested that Tehran could open “new fronts” in the conflict if hostilities continue.

The comments have heightened fears of further escalation in the Middle East, particularly because the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes, with roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments passing through the narrow waterway.

Analysts say the hardline tone of Khamenei’s first message indicates that Iran may be preparing for a prolonged confrontation with the United States and its allies.