Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has declared that the country is not seeking war with the United States or Israel, even as tensions remain high following weeks of conflict.
In a written message broadcast on state television, Khamenei said, “We did not seek war and we do not want it,” while insisting that Iran would not abandon its rights under any circumstances.
The statement comes 40 days after the killing of his father, Ali Khamenei, at the onset of the conflict on February 28.
Despite a fragile two-week ceasefire recently agreed with the United States—following strong warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump—Khamenei urged citizens to remain actively engaged.
“Do not imagine that taking to the streets is no longer necessary,” he said, emphasizing that public demonstrations could influence the outcome of any potential negotiations.
He also signaled continued support for Iran’s regional allies, referencing the broader “resistance front,” including forces in Lebanon, where fighting involving Israel and Hezbollah persists.
