Ayatollah says Iran has ‘defeated’ US as Trump, Rubio affirm he is ‘involved’ Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, declared victory over the U.S. and Israel, calling it a “decisive blow” and urging Iranians to resist enemy narratives. This declaration follows a shift in U.S. rhetoric, with President Trump and Secretary Rubio now affirming Khamenei’s active involvement in the Iranian regime, countering previous characterizations of him as ineffectual or possibly dead. Despite not appearing publicly since an earlier bombing, Khamenei’s statements are disseminated through state media, and Trump stated that communications between the U.S. and Iran have been continuous.

• 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.