Iran’s New Supreme Leader Calls for Continued Closure of Strait of Hormuz

Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran’s newly appointed supreme leader, urged the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz to merchant ships, according to a statement read Thursday on Iranian state TV. The move comes amid escalating tensions following the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in late February by a U.S.-Israeli air strike .

Succession and Initial Statements

Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed supreme leader on March 9, 2026. His first public comments were delivered via state television, with a photograph of the new leader displayed alongside the statement . There have been no public sightings of Khamenei since Sunday, when his selection was announced.

Pressure on the U.S. And Israel

Khamenei stated that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz should continue to be used as “a tool to pressure the enemy” . He also called for the immediate closure of all U.S. Military bases in the Middle East, warning of further attacks . The shipping of oil through the Strait of Hormuz has effectively stopped since the beginning of the conflict, causing global oil prices to soar, with Iran warning that the price per barrel could climb to $200 .

Calls for Retaliation and Unity

Khamenei emphasized that Iran would “not forsake avenging the blood” of those killed as a result of the U.S.-led operation in Iran . He also called for unity among the Iranian people.

Concerns About Khamenei’s Condition

Rumors have circulated regarding Khamenei’s health following the attack that killed his father. Iran’s ambassador to Cyprus, Alireza Salarian, told The Guardian that Khamenei was injured in the bombardment, reportedly in his legs, hand and arm, and is believed to be hospitalized . The airstrike also reportedly killed his wife, Zahra, and his teenage son, Mohammad Bagher . Salarian indicated that Khamenei’s condition explains his lack of public appearances.

Background and Appointment

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death on February 28, 2026, ended his 36-year rule. Reports suggest that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps pressured the Assembly of Experts to appoint Mojtaba Khamenei to ensure state continuity during the ongoing conflict . Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, is considered more hard-line and conservative than his father, though he maintained a low profile before his appointment .

U.S. Response

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed “disappointment” with Khamenei’s selection .