Iran’s New Supreme Leader Declares Victory Over Enemies
Jakarta – Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, has proclaimed victory over the nation’s adversaries, praising the resilience of the Iranian people in the face of challenges posed by the United States and Israel. The statement, disseminated through Iranian television on Friday, March 20, 2026, came in the form of a written message for Nowruz, the Persian New Year.
“The Iranian people have dealt such a heavy blow to him (the enemy) that he is now starting to utter contradictory words and nonsense,” Khamenei stated in his message, as reported by AFP.
Unity as a Source of Strength
Khamenei emphasized the unifying power of the Iranian populace as a key factor in confronting the US and Israel. “Today, because of the special unity that has been created among you, our fellow countrymen – despite all differences of religious, intellectual, cultural and political origins – the enemy has been defeated,” he asserted.
Dismissing Claims of Control
The Supreme Leader addressed what he characterized as misguided perceptions held by the US and Israel regarding their ability to control Iran. He specifically refuted the notion that the deaths of high-ranking Iranian officials would instill fear or pave the way for domination and division.
“The delusion that if the top of the regime and certain influential military figures achieve martyrdom, it will instill fear and despair in our beloved people… and through this means, the dream of dominating Iran and then dividing it will be realized,” he stated. Khamenei countered that the opposite outcome is unfolding, claiming, “A crack has appeared on the enemy’s side.”
Limited Public Appearances
Mojtaba Khamenei has maintained a low public profile since assuming the position of Supreme Leader following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in an Israeli air strike. His communications thus far have been limited to written statements. CBS News reported that U.S. Intelligence indicated the elder Khamenei had reservations about his son succeeding him, perceiving him as unqualified and aware of personal issues.
According to Wikipedia, Mojtaba Khamenei was born on September 8, 1969, and previously served as a close aide to his father and as a member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.