Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has declared that the country will preserve its nuclear and missile capabilities “as national assets.”
He made the remarks in a written statement issued today (30 April) marking Persian Gulf Day, reports AP.
In the statement, Khamenei said the United States would find its place “at the bottom of the waters” of the Persian Gulf, adding that a “new chapter” of history is unfolding in the region — one that leaves no room for foreign powers.
He also ruled out any compromise on Iran’s ballistic missile programme or nuclear activities. From nanotechnology to nuclear capability, he described all scientific achievements as national assets and said Iran would protect them just as it safeguards its land and waters.
Khamenei also signalled that Iran would maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz. Reports suggest Iran is collecting tolls of up to $2 million from vessels passing through the route. While Tehran has termed this a “new management system,” neighbouring countries, including the United Arab Emirates, have criticised it as “piracy”.
His comments come at a time when Iran’s oil industry faces mounting pressure from a US naval blockade. Meanwhile, global oil prices have surged after Iran restricted access through the Strait of Hormuz.
Today, the price of Brent crude oil rose sharply to $126 per barrel in international markets.
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