Strait of Hormuz: Mojtaba Khamenei Demands Total Control for Security
Iran's Mojtaba Khamenei emphasizes control over the Strait of Hormuz for national security following a high-level meeting with Mohsen Rezaei.
In a significant move amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has asserted that maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz is critical for safeguarding both national and regional security. This stance comes following a high-level strategic meeting with Major General Mohsen Rezaei, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC).
A Holistic Approach to National Security
During the discussions, Khamenei highlighted a comprehensive vision for the SNSC, arguing that national stability cannot be achieved in isolation. He emphasized that four key pillars—culture, politics, the economy, and security—are deeply interconnected and must be managed together to protect the state's interests.
Beyond the immediate military and strategic concerns, the Supreme Leader pointed toward the necessity of strengthening bilateral ties with neighboring nations. He suggested that these relationships should be built on a foundation of lasting and mutual interests to ensure long-term stability in the region.
Resistance and the 'Enemy's Desperation'
The meeting also touched upon the current geopolitical climate. Khamenei reportedly characterized the current state of Iran's adversaries as one of "desperation," claiming this is a direct result of Iran's unwavering national resistance. He stressed the following priorities:
- Protecting the fundamental rights and interests of the Iranian people.
- Supporting the "Resistance Front."
- Ensuring that Tehran's specific conditions for ending the war are fully met.
Furthermore, Khamenei called for an end to the ambiguous state of "neither war nor peace," urging proactive communication to ensure the public remains engaged and committed to defending the country.
Diplomacy vs. Deterrence
These directives follow a stern warning issued by Major General Mohsen Rezaei on October 22. Speaking to the Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, Rezaei made it clear that any military aggression against Iran would come with a heavy price.
"Everyone should know that action against Iran has a cost. If diplomacy can create this understanding, we prefer diplomacy; but if the war continues, Iran has the necessary tools to continue responding," Rezaei stated.
The Global Context
The internal Iranian deliberations occur against a backdrop of uncertain relations with the United States. US President Donald Trump recently indicated that while Washington is not currently negotiating with Tehran, certain developments could unfold "fairly soon," although he did not provide specifics on what those actions might entail.