Following nearly two weeks in secure hiding, Iran’s Supreme Leader made his first televised appearance looking notably more aged. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s speech revealed the physical strain of the crisis, with the leader speaking in a weakened voice and occasionally struggling with words.
The Iranian leader’s address disputed President Trump’s assertions about destroying Iran’s nuclear capabilities while acknowledging significant damage. UN nuclear agency officials confirmed extensive destruction to multiple atomic facilities, potentially delaying Iranian nuclear development by several years.
Khamenei emphasized Iran’s strike against US forces in Qatar as evidence of his country’s symbolic victory despite the devastation. He described this action as a “slap” to American prestige and demonstration that Iranian military effectiveness remained intact.
The ceasefire has provided both nations with an opportunity to step back from wider conflict while maintaining their confrontational positions. Iran has begun the process of recovery, including partial airspace reopening and restoration of commercial activities, while reducing cooperation with international nuclear oversight agencies.