TEHRAN: Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has stated that the future of the Persian Gulf will be “bright without the presence of the United States,” asserting that there is no place for foreign forces in the region.
In a statement carried by state media, Khamenei said that Iran and its Gulf neighbors share a common destiny and that regional stability should be shaped by local nations rather than external powers.
His remarks came in the context of ongoing regional tensions, particularly following what he described as the failure of U.S. plans after two months of conflict and heightened military activity. He added that a “new chapter” is emerging in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.
The message was published by Iran’s official news agency IRNA on the occasion of National Persian Gulf Day, which commemorates the expulsion of Portuguese forces from the Strait of Hormuz in 1622.
Khamenei emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz has historically been a focal point of global interest and rivalry, referring to it as a region long targeted by foreign powers. He claimed that recent events, including the U.S.-Israel conflict that began earlier in the year, demonstrated the resilience and vigilance of Iranian forces.
He further argued that U.S. military presence and bases in the Gulf are a primary source of instability, accusing Washington and its allies of contributing to regional insecurity through military actions against Iran.
“The future of the Persian Gulf belongs to its people,” he said, adding that regional prosperity, peace, and development should be driven by local cooperation rather than foreign intervention.
Khamenei also reiterated Iran’s commitment to safeguarding its nuclear and missile capabilities, describing them as vital national assets. He said the Iranian people consider these capabilities as important as their land, water, and airspace, and would defend them accordingly.
