Tehran, June 18 (V7N)- Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a defiant warning to both Israel and the United States, declaring that “the war has begun” and vowing never to compromise with the Zionist state. Facing death threats from multiple fronts, Khamenei publicly responded for the first time to the mounting pressure in a series of messages on X (formerly Twitter).

Amid heavy losses from Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, Khamenei remains resolute even as senior Iranian officials and Revolutionary Guard members fall victim to Israeli strikes. Despite facing personal threats, the 86-year-old leader has reaffirmed his commitment to Iran’s cause.

In one of his posts, Khamenei declared, “We will show no mercy to the Zionists. There will be no concessions. We will fight until victory.” He also invoked historical Islamic symbolism, referencing Hazrat Ali (RA) — the fourth Caliph of Islam and a revered figure in Shiite belief — stating, “The war has begun in the name of the respected Haidar. Ali is returning to Khaybar with his sword, Zulfiqar.”

The post alludes to the historic Battle of Khaybar, where Hazrat Ali (RA) led Muslim forces in a significant victory over the Jewish tribes of the Arabian Peninsula. Alongside the message, Khamenei shared an image of a fortified city under siege, symbolizing Iran’s current confrontation with Israel.

Death Threats from Israel and the US

The Supreme Leader’s defiant tone comes in direct response to explicit threats from Israeli and American leaders. Two days ago, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the ongoing conflict would only end with Khamenei’s death. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed the sentiment, warning that Khamenei could meet the same fate as Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump intensified the rhetoric, saying that while the United States knows Khamenei’s location, “we will not kill him, at least not now.” Trump further added that “our patience is running out,” hinting at potential future action.

Religious Symbolism and National Defiance

In addition to political messaging, Khamenei’s posts included Quranic verses, expressing confidence in divine support for Iran’s struggle. He emphasized that victory is assured by God’s will, further framing the conflict in religious and ideological terms.

As the war escalates with fierce exchanges of missile strikes between Iran and Israel, the international community watches anxiously. With no signs of diplomatic breakthrough and both sides doubling down on their positions, the risk of a broader, more destructive regional war grows with each passing hour.

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