Iran’s Supreme Leader made his first public statement since seeking shelter during the recent conflict, appearing notably weakened by the crisis. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s televised speech showed clear signs of strain, with the leader occasionally stumbling over words and speaking in a hoarse voice.
The Iranian leader’s address focused on disputing American assertions about the complete destruction of Iran’s nuclear capabilities. UN nuclear agency officials confirmed that US military strikes had caused enormous damage to multiple atomic facilities, representing a significant setback to Iranian nuclear ambitions.
Iran’s retaliatory attack on American forces in Qatar was highlighted by Khamenei as evidence of his country’s continued ability to threaten US interests. He characterized this strike as successful retaliation and warning that Iranian forces could escalate operations against American targets throughout the region.
The implementation of the ceasefire has allowed Iran to begin normalizing operations while maintaining its confrontational stance. The country has partially reopened its airspace and begun restoring civilian activities, though it faces enormous challenges in rebuilding its damaged nuclear infrastructure.
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