Khamenei: "Iranian Navy Ready to Deliver Defeat to Enemies"... Issues Hardline Message in Writing
by Lee Jungyun
Published 18 Apr.2026 20:50(KST)
Iran's new leader Mojtaba Khamenei has issued a hardline message on the occasion of Iran's Army Day.
On April 18 (local time), Ayatollah Khamenei declared, "Just as Iran's drones strike the United States and the Zionist criminals (Israel) like lightning, our brave navy is also ready to deliver a new bitter defeat to our enemies."
Ayatollah Khamenei also described the era of the Pahlavi dynasty as a "corrupt and oppressive regime." He argued that the victory of the Islamic Revolution marked a turning point for the Iranian military, ending the "era of weakness" and returning the armed forces to the embrace of the people.
He went on to say, "The military has built its own narrative in opposition to the evil plans of the United States, the remnants of the Pahlavi regime, and separatists," emphasizing, "Just as during the two wars forced upon us in 2024 and 2025 by the United States and Israel, the military is bravely defending the homeland's territory and flag, backed by powerful divine and popular support."
Since being appointed as Supreme Leader on March 9, Ayatollah Khamenei has not even released his voice to the public. This latest message was also issued in writing via his Telegram channel and Iranian state media.
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