File photo: Mojtaba Khamenei

Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei has signaled a tough stance on the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, warning that Tehran will take its control of the vital waterway to a “new stage”, even as a fragile armistice with the US and Israel remains under strain.Addressing the nation in a written statement, Khamenei declared on Thursday that Iran would not let the US and Israel go “without being punished for their aggression” and would demand compensation for losses suffered during the war. “With the permission of Almighty God, we will definitely not let the criminal aggressors go free. We will definitely demand compensation for each injury, blood money for the martyrs, and compensation for the disabled veterans of this war, and we will definitely advance the management of the Strait of Hormuz to a new stage,” he said.

Claim of victory amid ceasefire, warning

Khamenei also claimed victory in the ongoing conflict in West Asia, praising the resilience of the Iranian people and armed forces. He said, “Today and up to this point, it can be boldly said that you, the heroic nation of Iran, have been the definitive winners in the region.”Despite the temporary ceasefire agreement, he urged civilians to continue mobilizing, asking people to form a “human defense chain” and maintain pressure during negotiations. “Your crying at intersections is effective in the outcome of the talks,” he said.Khamenei also struck a measured tone, saying Iran does not want war but “will not give up its legitimate rights under any circumstances”, even if it engages in talks with Washington.

Strait tensions complicate diplomacy

The Strait of Hormuz remains the center of tension. The narrow waterway is a major global oil route, and its disruption threatens to blow supplies and send energy prices soaring.US President Donald Trump has accused Iran of failing to meet commitments to allow oil shipments through the strait, and warned of consequences if flows are disrupted.Meanwhile, the ceasefire remains fragile, with disagreements over its scope. The US and Israel have said the ceasefire does not apply to Hezbollah-linked targets, even though Israeli attacks continue in Lebanon.Both sides continue to accuse each other of violations, threatening to escalate tensions despite continued diplomatic efforts.