Khamenei Emerges from Hiding to Claim Victory Over American “Aggressors”

Following nearly two weeks in a secure location, Iran’s Supreme Leader reappeared to address his nation and the world about the recent conflict’s outcome. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, showing clear signs of strain from the prolonged crisis, delivered a combative speech filled with warnings for the United States and Israel.
The Iranian leader disputed American claims about the complete destruction of Iran’s nuclear program, though he acknowledged that significant damage had occurred. International nuclear agency officials confirmed that the strikes had indeed caused considerable harm to multiple Iranian nuclear facilities, representing a major setback for the country’s atomic ambitions.
Khamenei characterized Iran’s strike on the US base in Qatar as a successful demonstration of Iranian military capabilities and regional reach. He described this action as a “slap” to American prestige and warned that similar operations could be conducted against US interests throughout the Middle East if hostilities resume.
The ceasefire agreement has allowed Iran to begin the process of national recovery, with airports partially reopening and commercial activity slowly resuming in major cities. Despite the significant damage to its nuclear infrastructure, Iran’s parliament has moved to limit cooperation with international nuclear inspectors, suggesting continued defiance of international pressure.