Iran's supreme leader vows to avenge his father and victims of US-Israeli attacks

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has issued a renewed and explicit pledge to avenge the deaths of his father and thousands of other Iranians killed in joint US-Israeli offensives. In a message posted on social media platform X, he vowed that justice would be exacted from those responsible for the attacks.

A Vow of Revenge and Divine Mission

Mojtaba Khamenei stated, "We pledge to avenge your pure blood and the blood of all those martyred in these two wars from their criminal and disgraced killers." He emphasized that the "mission of revenge" does not depend on his presence or that of other officials, asserting, "Whether we are here or not, this promise will be fulfilled, and soon free people around the world will each carry out part of this divine mission."

Context of the Attacks and Casualties

The Supreme Leader's father, Ali Khamenei, was among more than 3,000 people killed in a joint US-Israeli offensive against Iran in February. This operation followed an earlier 12-day war in June 2025, which had already resulted in nearly 1,000 casualties. The conflicts have significantly escalated regional tensions and altered Iran's political landscape.

Recent Diplomatic Developments and Continuing Tensions

In June, Tehran and Washington signed a memorandum of understanding, brokered by Pakistan, aimed at ending their war and establishing a lasting peace. However, both sides have exchanged attacks in recent days amid escalating disputes over commercial navigation through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The conflicting signs of diplomacy and renewed hostility underscore the fragile state of the agreement.