Khamenei Says Iran Does Not Want War but Warns “Criminal Aggressors” Will Not Go Unpunished

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has said that Iran does not want war with the United States or Israel, but warned that any attacks on the country will not go unanswered.

In a written message broadcast on Iranian state television, he said, “We did not seek war and we do not want it.” However, he added that Iran will continue to defend what he described as its “legitimate rights under all circumstances.”

He also said Iran would not “allow criminal aggressors who attacked our country to go unpunished,” referring to recent conflict developments involving the United States and Israel.

Ceasefire and Regional Tensions

The remarks come after Iran agreed to a fragile ceasefire with the United States following weeks of conflict. The deal is seen as an early step toward possible negotiations, although tensions in the region remain high.

The statement also referenced Iran’s broader “resistance front,” including its allies in the region, particularly in Lebanon, where clashes involving Hezbollah and Israel have continued.

Call for Public Support

Khamenei also urged Iranians to remain active in public demonstrations, saying that public voices still play an important role in shaping political outcomes and ongoing negotiations.

He encouraged citizens to continue expressing their views in public spaces despite the ceasefire announcement.

Strait of Hormuz Warning

In his message, he also referred to the strategic Strait of Hormuz, suggesting Iran would take a “new phase” in managing the key shipping route. The Strait is one of the world’s most important oil transit corridors.

Analysts say any disruption in the area could have global economic consequences.