Mojtaba Khamenei has said Iran is not seeking war with the United States or Israel, even as tensions remain high.
In a written message broadcast on state television, the Iranian leader said clearly: “We did not seek war, and we do not want it.”i
The message was released to mark 40 days since the death of his father, Ali Khamenei, who was killed on February 28 at the start of the conflict.
Even so, Khamenei made it clear that Iran would not back down when it comes to its national interests.
He stressed that the country would continue to defend what it sees as its “legitimate rights” under any circumstances.
He also referred to the broader “resistance front,” a term often used to describe Iran’s regional allies, including forces in Lebanon, where Israel remains engaged in conflict with Hezbollah.
The statement comes just days after Iran agreed to a fragile two-week ceasefire with the United States a move that could open the door to possible peace talks.
The pause followed strong warnings from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Despite the ceasefire, Khamenei urged Iranians not to become complacent. He called on citizens to remain active and engaged, saying public demonstrations could still play a role in shaping the outcome of negotiations.
“Your presence in the streets matters,” he said, noting that public pressure could influence how talks unfold.
