IRAN'S SUPREME LEADER VOWS TO PROTECT NUCLEAR AND MISSILE PROGRAMS, THREATENS US PRESENCE IN PERSIAN GULF, AND CONTROL OF STRAIT OF HORMUZ . (PHOTO).

 Iran's supreme leader vows to protect nuclear and missile programs, threatens US presence in Persian Gulf, and control of Strait of Hormuz 

 Iran’s supreme leader issued a defiant warning Thursday, pledging to defend the country’s nuclear and missile programs amid ongoing U.S. pressure and military actions aimed at limiting Tehran’s capabilities. In a statement delivered on state television, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei said Americans have no place in the Persian Gulf and warned that “a new chapter” is unfolding in the region. He has not appeared publicly since assuming leadership following the killing of his father during the opening phase of the war.

The remarks come as Iran faces severe economic strain, with its oil sector squeezed by a U.S. naval blockade targeting tanker movements. At the same time, Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz—through which roughly one-fifth of global crude oil flows—continues to unsettle energy markets. Brent crude briefly surged to as high as $126 a barrel on Thursday, underscoring the global impact of the disruptions.

The rising energy prices are adding pressure on Washington, where officials are considering new strategies aimed at reopening the strait while maintaining sanctions and maritime restrictions on Iran. A senior administration official said the U.S. is weighing coordinated efforts with allies to increase economic pressure on Tehran and restore energy flows through the critical waterway, while also exploring broader diplomatic options.

The situation has complicated already fragile ceasefire conditions and stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. While Iran has insisted its nuclear work is peaceful, it has enriched uranium to levels near weapons-grade. Talks between U.S. and Iranian intermediaries continue through third-party channels, with some officials suggesting direct communication could help ease tensions.

In his remarks marking Persian Gulf Day, Khamenei framed Iran’s nuclear and missile programs as national assets that will not be subject to negotiation. He described them as essential to the country’s sovereignty alongside scientific and technological advancements, and reiterated hardline rhetoric toward the United States.

Khamenei also suggested Iran intends to maintain its control over maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, which he said would ultimately benefit regional security under Tehran’s “rules and management.” The move has drawn criticism from Gulf Arab states, which view such control as illegitimate interference in an international shipping route.