Khamenei Vows to Protect Iran's Nuclear and Missile Capabilities

Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, has vowed to protect the Islamic Republic's nuclear and missile capabilities, asserting that Iran will not negotiate away its military assets. This declaration comes as U.S.

President Donald Trump seeks to curtail Iranian airstrikes as part of a broader strategy to stabilize a shaky ceasefire in the region. Khamenei's remarks, made during a public address, reflect Iran's defiance against U.S. sanctions that have severely impacted its economy, particularly the oil industry.

The U.S. Navy has been blocking Iranian tankers, aiming to prevent oil sales and deprive Iran of crucial revenue.

In response, the U.S. State Department has instructed American diplomats globally to seek support against Iranian maritime provocations.

Khamenei emphasized that Iran's nuclear program, which includes uranium enrichment near weapon-grade levels, remains a point of contention, and he indicated that Iran would not trade its missile capabilities for economic relief. The situation continues to escalate as tensions in the Persian Gulf remain high.