Saturday, 21 December 2024
Saturday, 21 December 2024
In a highly anticipated appearance at Tehran’s Friday prayers, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered an address amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. Praising the country's missile strike on Israel and calling for unity across the region, Khamenei’s speech was a bold declaration of Iran’s stance. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his key remarks.
Khamenei’s return to friday prayers
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first appearance at Friday prayers in five years, addressing thousands at Tehran’s Mosalla mosque. He used this significant platform to discuss Iran's recent missile strike on Israel, stating, “the missile strike [was a] shining job by Iran's armed forces.”
Praising the missile strike on Israel
Referring to the missile barrage launched by Iran earlier in the week, Khamenei praised the efforts of the country's military. He declared that Tuesday's missile strike was a justified action based on “international law, the country’s law, and Islamic beliefs,” signalling Iran's readiness to defend itself again if necessary.
Giving legitimacy to Hamas attack
Khamenei took time to reflect on the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel nearly a year ago on October 7, 2023. He described the assault as a "legitimate action by the Palestinian people," reiterating Iran’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and resistance movements.
Prepare to act
In a rallying cry to Iran’s allies, Khamenei called on resistance movements across the Middle East to be prepared to act. He urged nations “from Afghanistan to Yemen and from Iran to Gaza and Yemen” to unite against their common enemy, while praising the "resisting people in Lebanon and Palestine" for their bravery and sacrifice.
Addressing Arab nations in Arabic
Khamenei directed part of his speech to Arab nations, speaking in Arabic to appeal to a broader regional audience. He praised the resistance efforts of Lebanon and Palestine, urging their fighters to stay resilient: “these martyrdoms and the blood that was shed shouldn’t shake your determination but make you more persistent.”
Paying tribute to martyrs
The supreme leader honoured those who had died in the fight against Israel, emphasising their importance to the cause. He told fighters across the region, "you brave fighters, you loyal and patient people," reminding them that the sacrifices made in battle should reinforce their commitment to resistance.
The commemoration of Hassan Nasrallah
Before Khamenei’s speech, a ceremony was held in memory of Lebanese Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. With most high-ranking Iranian officials present, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and top Revolutionary Guard generals, the event highlighted Iran’s continued support for Hezbollah and its role in the region.
Promises continued support for Lebanon
As part of its ongoing commitment to Hezbollah and Lebanon, Iran sent a shipment of aid to Beirut, including 10 tons of food and medicine. Khamenei’s address underscored this support, solidifying Iran’s position as a key player in the Middle Eastern resistance movements.
A message of defiance
Khamenei concluded his address with a bold declaration: “Our resisting people in Lebanon and Palestine, you brave fighters... make you more persistent.” He left no doubt that Iran is prepared to continue its involvement in regional conflicts, vowing that if necessary, Iran is ready to act again.
