Ayatollah says Iran has 'defeated' US as Trump, Rubio affirm he is 'involved'
In the months since Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei became the supreme leader following the assassination of his father, he has been characterized by the U.S. government as an ineffectual leader, and possibly even dead.
TL;DR
- Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei declared Iran has defeated "imperialism, led by the U.S." and Israel.
- This declaration comes after months where the U.S. government characterized Khamenei as ineffectual or possibly dead.
- President Trump and Secretary Rubio have recently stated that Khamenei is actively involved in the Iranian regime.
- Trump expressed a desire to meet Khamenei, noting ongoing communications between the U.S. and Iran.
- Khamenei has not appeared publicly since being injured in a bombing, with his statements disseminated by state media.
- The Supreme Leader called for Iranian "steadfastness" and "clear-sightedness" against enemy schemes.
- Previous U.S. rhetoric had described Khamenei as a "lightweight" and questioned his presence.
- Secretary Rubio indicated Khamenei is engaging at some level, likely through intermediaries due to security concerns.