Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a direct warning to Israel, vowing severe retaliation as the exchange of missile strikes enters its sixth day. This marks Khamenei’s first public statement since US President Donald Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” signaling a dangerous escalation in the conflict.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Khamenei declared, “The battle begins,” drawing a parallel to Imam Ali’s 7th-century conquest of Khaybar—a historical reference loaded with symbolism for Shia Muslims. The accompanying image depicted a warrior advancing toward a castle-like structure with fiery skies, reinforcing the militant rhetoric.
Shortly after, Khamenei doubled down, stating, “We must give a strong response to the terrorist Zionist regime. We will show the Zionists no mercy.” The language suggests an impending escalation, with Iran positioning itself for a protracted confrontation against Israel.