Mojtaba Khamenei vows revenge, signals Hormuz shift, warns Arab neighbors

A long message attributed to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei vowed to “not let go” of attackers, seek compensation and “avenge” the dead, warned it would take Hormuz Strait “to a new phase,” and urged Arab neighbors to “stand in the right place” and turn away from Western powers.

“Everyone must know that, God willing, we will certainly not let go of the criminal aggressors who attacked our country. We will definitely seek compensation for every damage inflicted, as well as blood money for the martyrs and compensation for the wounded of this war," said the message marking the 40th day after Ali Khamenei’s death.

“The nation… will keep alive in its heart a firm determination to avenge the blood of [the leader] and all those killed in the imposed wars.”

Addressing the Islamic Republic's supporters, Khamenei said, “It should not be assumed that announcing an intention to negotiate with the enemy means there is no need for a presence in the streets."

"On the contrary, even if, hypothetically, a period of silence on the military battlefield becomes necessary, the duty of all people who can be present in squares, neighborhoods, and mosques appears heavier than before. Your chants in the streets are effective in shaping the outcome of negotiations.”