Tehran — In a historic return to the pulpit, Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, addressed a large congregation in Tehran during Friday prayers for the first time in five years. As tensions escalate between Iran and Israel, Khamenei's sermon came amid recent missile strikes that he described as a demonstration of Iran’s resolve to protect its interests. Opening the sermon with verses from the Quran, Khamenei declared the day a “Victory Friday,” signaling Iran's commitment to its cause against perceived aggression.
His address followed Iran's substantial missile attacks on Israel, which were launched in retaliation for the assassination of key figures from the Iranian-backed resistance group Hezbollah, including its chief, Hassan Nasrallah. In a notable gesture to strengthen ties with Arabic-speaking and Muslim nations, Khamenei incorporated Arabic into parts of his speech. He underscored the ongoing struggle for the liberation of Palestine, invoking the sacrifices made by resistance groups.
"The martyrs have paved the way towards al-Quds (Jerusalem)," Khamenei proclaimed, emphasizing the city's significance as the third holy site in Islam. Khamenei's sermon also emphasized the necessity of unity among Muslim countries to counter what he characterized as oppression by Israel and its allies, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. By asserting Iran's leadership in the resistance movement, he called for collective action against common threats.
Reinforcing Iran’s military capabilities, Khamenei reiterated his commitment to support allies such as Hamas and Hezbollah, which he deemed vital to Iran’s regional strategy. He described the recent missile strikes not only as a show of force but also as a clear message of Iran's readiness to defend its interests and those of its allies against threats from Zionist forces and America. The atmosphere during the sermon was charged with fervor as thousands of attendees chanted in unison, “Oh leader, may your guidance last, may you be safe, your leadership is the best,” demonstrating the loyalty of the Iranian people to Khamenei and their support for the government's stance amidst rising tensions in the region.
As the situation unfolds, Khamenei's first sermon in five years serves as a striking reminder of Iran's unwavering stance against external threats, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
