TEHRAN, March 12 (Xinhua) -- Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei delivered his first public message on Thursday since taking office, outlining Iran's key strategies in its ongoing war with the United States and Israel.
In a message posted on his official website, the Iranian supreme leader paid tribute to the country's leaders who have died in the war, called for national unity, and reaffirmed a resolute commitment to resistance.
The following are some key points from his speech:
TRIBUTE TO THE DEAD
-- In his message, Mojtaba Khamenei offered condolences to all Iranians killed in U.S.-Israeli attacks, including his father and other family members, and vowed revenge for all Iranians who have died in the conflict.
-- He also promised free medical care for the wounded and ordered compensation for property damage, requiring officials to report back on implementation.
CALL FOR UNITY
-- The new leader credited the Iranian people for maintaining stability during the period without a formal leader, and called for continued unity, active public participation, and mutual support among citizens.
-- He said leadership is ineffective without the support and presence of the people.
ON WAR WITH ISRAEL, U.S.
-- Mojtaba Khamenei pledged to continue military defense and maintain leverage over the Strait of Hormuz.
-- He warned of opening new fronts against adversaries in vulnerable areas.
-- He thanked Hezbollah, the Houthis in Yemen, and Iraqi resistance groups for their support.
TO NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES
-- He warned countries hosting U.S. military bases that these installations have been and will remain targets, urging their closure and distancing from the United States.
-- He reaffirmed a desire for warm relations with all 15 neighboring states.■
