Khamenei Vows Revenge as Iran-US Tensions Intensify Again

TEHRAN: (News Desk) – Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has declared that avenging his late father and predecessor is a national obligation, describing it as a duty that “must certainly” be fulfilled. In a message shared through his Telegram channel, he vowed to seek justice for the former leader and those killed during the recent conflicts, calling them martyrs.

Khamenei also linked his father’s leadership to the ideals of Imam Hussain (AS), saying the Iranian Islamic Revolution was founded on Hussaini values of sacrifice and resistance. He said the former supreme leader had been shaped by those same principles throughout his life.

Meanwhile, tensions between Tehran and Washington have escalated again despite recent diplomatic efforts. Iran insisted it has respected the terms of its ceasefire understanding with the United States after President Donald Trump declared that the truce was effectively over while also agreeing to continue negotiations.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump warned that the United States would respond with overwhelming force if Iran attempted to assassinate him. He also repeated his claim that the ceasefire had ended, even though both sides signed a memorandum of understanding only weeks ago aimed at reducing hostilities.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected Trump’s remarks, arguing that Tehran has honored its commitments while accusing Washington of violating the agreement. He specifically criticized the United States for revoking a temporary sanctions waiver covering Iranian oil exports, saying mutual compliance is essential if negotiations are to succeed.

Diplomatic contacts have continued despite the sharp exchange of accusations. Reports indicate that a Qatari delegation is in Tehran in an effort to preserve dialogue, while Araghchi is expected to travel to Oman for discussions focused on the Strait of Hormuz.

The strategic waterway remains a major source of friction after Iran restricted shipping following the conflict that erupted earlier this year. According to reports, the United States has demanded that Tehran stop targeting commercial vessels and recognize that the vital shipping lane remains open to international traffic.

Pakistan has also continued its mediation efforts. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held separate conversations with Qatar’s emir and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, urging all sides to protect the fragile peace and avoid further escalation.

Pakistan Urges Dialogue, Restraint Over Iran Nuclear Tensions

Despite ongoing diplomatic activity, Iranian officials maintain that the country will not surrender under pressure. Senior negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said ending the conflict is important but stressed that Iran remains fully prepared to defend itself if necessary.