In his first public appearance since seeking shelter during the military confrontation, Iran’s Supreme Leader showed clear signs of exhaustion. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s televised address revealed the physical impact of the prolonged crisis, with the leader speaking with evident difficulty.
The 86-year-old leader’s speech challenged American assertions about completely destroying Iran’s nuclear capabilities while acknowledging extensive damage. International nuclear agency officials confirmed that the strikes had caused enormous harm to Iranian atomic infrastructure, potentially setting back development by years.
Iran’s successful attack on American forces in Qatar was emphasized by Khamenei as evidence against underestimating Iran despite the devastation. He characterized this action as warning to the United States about the continued threat posed by Iranian military capabilities.
The implementation of the ceasefire has allowed Iran to begin the slow process of normalizing operations while maintaining its defiant international stance. The country has partially reopened its airspace and begun restoring commercial activities, while signaling its intention to continue nuclear development despite international pressure.