Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei called U.S. military involvement a “defeat” and declared plans to build a new order around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy shipping route. The remarks come as tensions in the Middle East rise again and competition intensifies over control of major transport corridors.
According to Yonhap on the 30th, Khamenei said in a message marking “Persian Gulf Day” that “the U.S. attack ended in a humiliating failure” and that it was time to “completely remove foreign influence” from the region. He singled out the Strait of Hormuz, saying Iran would “build a new management system” to block its use by “hostile forces.”
Iran views the strait as a strategic point directly tied to its security. Khamenei said the Persian Gulf is tied to the identity of Iran and the Muslim world, and he sharply criticized the U.S. military presence. He also claimed U.S. bases are vulnerable and do not guarantee regional stability.
On future operations of the strait, he signaled an intent to tighten legal and military control. He said Iran would mobilize scientific and technological resources and military capabilities to defend its territory and maritime sovereignty, while building an order that shares economic benefits with countries in the region.
The statement was seen as his first hard-line message since U.S. and Israeli airstrikes in February. After becoming supreme leader following his father’s death, Khamenei had largely avoided public remarks, but issued this message directly.
Foreign media have focused less on feasibility than on potential impact. The Strait of Hormuz is widely regarded as a vital passageway, with about 20% of global oil shipments passing through it. Analysts warn that any rise in tensions could quickly affect international oil prices and maritime logistics.
Experts also say that if Iran moves to strengthen control over the strait, it could trigger responses from the United States and Gulf countries, raising the risk of broader military tensions.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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