Ayatollah Ali Khamenei of Iran cautioned on Wednesday that the nation would suffer “irreparable damage” if the U.S. takes military action against Iran amidst its conflict with Israel.
In a televised address, Khamenei stated, “The Americans should be aware that any military intervention by the U.S. will undoubtedly result in irreparable damage. The U.S. entering this war is 100% detrimental to itself. The harm it will experience will be significantly greater than any harm Iran may face.”
His statement was also critical of the U.S.’s alleged involvement.
According to Khamenei, there is growing suspicion that the U.S. was involved in actions carried out by Israel, especially considering recent remarks.
Addressing Trump directly, the Supreme Leader added that the U.S. President is threatening Iran with absurd rhetoric, demanding the Iranian people surrender. He stated that such threats should be directed at those who are afraid, and that the Iranian nation is not frightened by them.
Khamenei’s comments come as questions arise regarding the U.S.’s role in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, and the possibility of U.S. involvement.
Trump spoke out after Israel’s strikes on Iran, which targeted nuclear and military sites on June 13.
On Tuesday, Trump raised further questions about potential U.S. involvement.
Trump claimed that the U.S. has complete control of the skies over Iran, emphasizing the superiority of American-made equipment. He stated that no one does it better than the USA.
Later on Tuesday, the President directly warned Khamenei.
Trump asserted that they know the exact location of the Supreme Leader, describing him as an easy target but safe for now. He stated they do not want missiles fired at civilians or American soldiers, and that their patience is wearing thin.
He concluded with what appeared to be a direct instruction to Iran: “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!”
Joining Khamenei in condemning potential U.S. involvement, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Esmail Baghaei warned that American intervention would lead to an all-out war in the region.
Baghaei stated that Iran has good relations with Arab countries, who are aware that Israel has been trying to drag others into the war. He expressed confidence that Arab countries hosting U.S. bases would not allow their territory to be used against their Muslim neighbors, in an interview with Al Jazeera on Wednesday.
Prior to these comments directed at Iran, Trump stated aboard Air Force One on Tuesday that he is seeking a “real end” to the conflict, something “better than a cease-fire.”
With tensions between Israel, Iran, and the U.S. at a perceived all-time high, achieving an immediate end to the conflict is becoming increasingly challenging.
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