In a striking display of resolve, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, delivered a rare and powerful sermon on Friday, asserting that Israel “won’t last long” while expressing unwavering support for Palestinian and Lebanese groups in their struggle against the Israeli state. This address, which drew tens of thousands of supporters to a mosque in Tehran, marks Khamenei’s first Friday sermon in five years, showcasing his intent to reinforce Iran’s stance amid rising regional tensions.
A Show of Strength
During the sermon, Khamenei held a gun as a symbol of defiance, justifying missile strikes on Israel as a “public service.” His rhetoric resonated with the crowd, which echoed chants of solidarity with groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Khamenei confidently proclaimed that Israel could not prevail against these factions, positioning Iran as a leading force in the resistance against what he described as a common enemy.
The backdrop of his address was critical; Khamenei remains a high-profile target for Israeli forces, particularly following recent missile attacks that have escalated tensions in the region. His speech serves not only as a rallying cry for supporters but also as a reminder of his pivotal role in Iran’s political and military landscape.
Remembering a Fallen Leader
In a poignant moment, Khamenei honored Hassan Nasrallah, the former chief of Hezbollah, who was reportedly killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut just days prior. “Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah is no longer with us, but his spirit and his path will continue to inspire us forever,” he declared, emphasizing that Nasrallah’s legacy would galvanize the resistance movement. Khamenei described Nasrallah as a “high-standing flag against the Zionist enemy,” suggesting that his martyrdom would only amplify the resolve of those fighting against Israel.
The Duty to Support Resistance
Khamenei’s sermon took a broader turn as he called upon Muslims globally to support the Lebanese and Palestinian causes. “It is the duty and responsibility of all Muslims to help the bloodied people of Lebanon and to support Lebanon’s jihad and the battle for al-Aqsa mosque,” he stated. This message underscores Iran’s strategic goal of positioning itself as a champion of the oppressed, particularly in the context of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Highlighting the legitimacy of the October 7 attacks by Hamas, Khamenei asserted, “No international law has the right to object and protest against the Lebanese and Palestinians for standing up for themselves against the occupation.” This rhetoric is intended to rally support for Iran’s military and ideological allies, framing their actions as justified resistance rather than aggression.
A Critical Perspective on Israel
Throughout his speech, Khamenei portrayed Israel as a mere “tool” of the United States, accusing it of seeking to dominate the region’s lands and resources. He stated emphatically, “There is no doubt that the Zionists and the Americans are dreaming—the Zionist entity will be uprooted from the ground.” This language emphasizes Khamenei’s long-standing view that Israel’s existence is tenuous and reliant on American backing, fostering a narrative that resonates deeply within his base.
Context of the Sermon
The significance of Khamenei’s address cannot be understated. It comes just three days after Iran launched a substantial missile strike targeting critical infrastructure in Israel, a provocative action that highlights the escalating military confrontations in the region. Furthermore, this sermon falls just before the first anniversary of the Israel-Gaza war, adding to its urgency and relevance.
Khamenei last led Friday prayers in January 2020, following a missile attack on a U.S. military base in Iraq, an event that marked a significant point in U.S.-Iran relations. The context of his recent sermon, therefore, reflects ongoing tensions and the potential for further conflict.
Conclusion: A Call to Action and Unity
Khamenei’s sermon serves as both a warning and a rallying call for Iran’s allies in the region. By framing the fight against Israel as a collective Muslim duty, he aims to unify various factions under a shared cause, reinforcing Iran’s role as a leader in the resistance against what it perceives as Western imperialism.
As the situation evolves, the international community will be closely watching how these developments unfold. Khamenei’s bold declarations, coupled with Iran’s military actions, suggest a potentially volatile future for both regional stability and broader international relations. For those interested in Middle Eastern politics, Khamenei’s words underscore the complexities of allegiance, resistance, and the ongoing struggle for power and influence in the region.
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