Khamenei says US, Israel seek to sow ‘division’ after war losses

TEHRAN: Iran’s supreme leader on Thursday said that the United States and Israel are trying to create “division” among Iranians after suffering what he described as a “decisive blow” during the Middle East conflict.

In a written message, Mojtaba Khamenei said “the malicious enemy” is attempting to “plant the seeds of doubt, despair, fear, mistrust and division” among the public.

He added, “In confronting these ill intentions, everyone must, through steadfastness, insight, preserving unity and cohesion… neutralise their sinister plot.”

The message was read by a prayer leader at the mausoleum of the founder of Iran’s Islamic revolution, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, on the 37th anniversary of his death.

The 1979 revolution had overthrown the US-backed Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, ending the monarchy.

After Khomeini’s death in 1989, Ali Khamenei became supreme leader and remained in office until he was killed on February 28 this year during US and Israeli attacks that triggered a regional war.

The conflict was later paused under a ceasefire agreement on April 8, followed by diplomatic efforts to reach a lasting peace deal, which have so far failed.

Since 1989, Ali Khamenei had traditionally delivered a speech at the annual commemoration. This year, an empty chair with his portrait was placed at the site, according to state media footage.

Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded his father, has not appeared publicly since March and has only addressed the nation through written statements.

The ceremony was attended by supporters waving Iranian flags and banners of Hezbollah, the Lebanese group backed by Iran.

Iran has said that any agreement with the United States must also include a broader regional ceasefire, including in Lebanon where Hezbollah continues to clash with Israeli forces.