Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed that those responsible for the killing of his father and predecessor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, will face retribution, declaring that Iran remains committed to pursuing justice despite recent diplomatic efforts to ease tensions.
In a written statement broadcast by Iranian state television, Mojtaba Khamenei described revenge for the slain former leader as a national obligation, while suggesting that the responsibility extended beyond Iran to supporters around the world.
The message marked his first public communication since funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei began last week.
The late supreme leader was killed in a United States-Israeli airstrike on February 28, an attack that marked the beginning of the conflict between Iran and its adversaries.
The statement pledged that Iran would seek accountability for the deaths of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and others killed during the conflict, describing the pursuit of justice as both a national and religious duty.
Although the statement was released publicly, Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in person since assuming office as Iran’s supreme leader on March 8. His prolonged absence has fuelled speculation about his health following reports that he sustained injuries during the airstrike that killed his father.
The latest declaration comes amid renewed uncertainty over the fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States after recent exchanges of military action raised concerns about the durability of the truce.
Despite the heightened tensions, both sides have indicated a willingness to continue diplomatic engagement aimed at preventing a return to full-scale conflict.
Observers say the continued absence of Iran’s new supreme leader from public view has intensified questions about the country’s leadership at a critical moment, even as the Revolutionary Guards continue to demonstrate their support for his authority.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for nearly four decades, was laid to rest following funeral ceremonies attended by large crowds, according to Iranian state media.
