Mojtaba Khamenei Warns US Bases in Region Could Be Attacked, Mentions Strait of Hormuz

Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued his first official message on state television on Thursday, warning that United States military bases across West Asia could face attacks if they continue operating. The statement, delivered through a presenter rather than Khamenei himself, outlined Iran's stance on the ongoing regional conflict, the presence of US forces in neighbouring countries, and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz.

Warning directed at US military bases

In the message, Mojtaba Khamenei said American bases located across the region should be shut down immediately or risk becoming targets during the conflict.

The statement suggested that Iran considers foreign military installations a central factor in the crisis. It also urged governments in nearby countries to reconsider hosting American troops or military facilities.

According to the message, as long as such bases remain active, they could be treated as potential targets in any escalation.

Strait of Hormuz described as leverage

A key part of the statement focused on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important maritime routes for energy supplies.

The message indicated that Iran sees control of the strait as a strategic tool during the ongoing conflict. Translations carried by international media reported that the Iranian leadership believes the option of restricting or blocking the passage should remain available as leverage.

The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and handles a major share of global oil shipments, making it a critical route for international energy markets.

Reference to Minab school strike

The statement also addressed a missile strike on a girls' school in Minab, which Iranian officials say occurred on the first day of the conflict.

Authorities reported that the attack killed at least 168 people, including around 110 children. The message vowed that Iran would respond to such incidents and emphasised that the country would seek justice for those killed.

Despite the strong warnings, the statement also said Iran supports cooperative relations with neighbouring states. However, it cautioned them against hosting US military forces, describing the presence of foreign troops as a direct security threat.