Khamenei Declares Resistance Against US and Israel 'Praiseworthy'

In a recent statement, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has characterized the struggle against the United States and Israel as 'praiseworthy'. This declaration, made on July 16, 2025, comes in the wake of a significant military conflict that resulted in substantial casualties and heightened tensions in the Middle East. Khamenei's remarks were made public through his official website, as reported by Agence France-Presse (AFP).

The Supreme Leader accused Israel of conducting operations aimed at destabilizing the Iranian government, alleging that the recent military actions were part of a broader strategy to incite unrest and ultimately overthrow the Islamic Republic. He stated, 'The calculation and plan of the aggressors was to weaken the system by targeting certain figures and sensitive centres in Iran,' emphasizing that Israel's actions were intended to provoke disorder among the Iranian populace.

This conflict escalated dramatically on June 13, 2025, when Israel initiated an extensive bombing campaign in Iran, which reportedly led to the deaths of over 1,000 individuals, including senior military officials and nuclear scientists, as outlined in a statement from Iran’s Ministry of Defense. In retaliation, Iran launched drone and missile strikes that resulted in the deaths of at least 28 individuals in Israel, according to Israeli reports.

The recent military exchanges have taken place against a backdrop of stalled nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States. These discussions, which began on April 12, 2025, were expected to continue in mid-June but have since been suspended due to the hostilities. Khamenei’s statement suggests a hardening of Iran’s stance, with an emphasis on military readiness and a call for cautious diplomacy. He stated that Iranian officials must proceed with 'care and precision' in future engagements, although the specifics of these diplomatic conditions remain unspecified.

Experts have weighed in on Khamenei's statements and the broader implications of the ongoing conflict. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of International Relations at Stanford University, noted, 'Khamenei's rhetoric reflects a deep-seated insecurity within the Iranian leadership, particularly in the wake of these attacks.' Furthermore, Dr. Amir Hossein, an analyst at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at Yale University, remarked, 'The Iranian government is likely using this situation to consolidate internal support and divert attention from domestic issues.'

The international community has expressed concern regarding the rising tensions. The United Nations and various human rights organizations have called for restraint from both sides, emphasizing the need for renewed dialogue. According to a report published by the International Crisis Group on July 14, 2025, the conflict poses a significant risk of escalating into a larger regional war, which could further destabilize the Middle East.

As the situation unfolds, the implications for regional stability are severe. The potential for further military action looms large, especially as Iranian officials continue to assert their commitment to defending the nation against external threats. The conflict not only affects Iran and Israel but also has broader implications for U.S. foreign policy in the region.

In conclusion, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's declaration underscores the complex interplay of military and diplomatic strategies in the Middle East. The ongoing hostilities highlight the fragile nature of peace in the region and the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation. As both Iran and Israel navigate this precarious landscape, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that can bring lasting stability to the area.