Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a stark warning of inevitable retaliation following the funeral of his father, Ali Khamenei — who was killed in an Israeli-U.S. military strike. Speaking for the first time since the burial, which concluded on Thursday after six days of mourning, Mojtaba Khamenei declared in a written statement dated yesterday but released today: “We are determined to avenge the blood of the martyr leader and all martyrs of these two wars.”
“Revenge Is Inevitable”
Khamenei emphasized that this act of retribution is not merely personal but reflects the will of the Iranian nation — one that “must inevitably take place.” He added ominously: “These criminals — whose names appear on a list — will carry with them to their graves the desire for a peaceful death in their beds.”
Diplomatic Tensions Escalate
The statement comes amid rapidly deteriorating relations between Iran and the United States. On Friday, former U.S. President Donald Trump accused Tehran of plotting to assassinate him and reiterated threats to “eliminate” Iran. His remarks followed recent exchanges of fire — now paused — between Iranian forces and U.S.-Israeli coalition units.
In response, Iran’s UN ambassador, Amir Saeed Iravani, warned that Tehran would no longer consider itself bound by the June agreement reached with Washington — a protocol-level understanding — if the U.S. continues failing to meet its obligations. The Iranian state broadcaster reported the warning Saturday, July 11, 2026.
Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership responsibilities in March but has remained largely out of public view since then. His latest message marks his most visible intervention to date — and signals a hardening stance as Iran enters a new, uncertain phase under his leadership.