Iran's supreme leader warns United States of retaliation if attacks persist

Iran's supreme leader issued a statement on state television warning that continued U.S. strikes would bring "unforgettable lessons" for Washington and its regional partners. The remarks followed a recent escalation in which U.S. forces targeted civilian infrastructure in southern Iran, including bridges, rail lines and water-desalination plants.

The leader, identified as Mojtaba Khamenei, said the United States had repeatedly violated the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed last month, describing President Donald Trump’s signature on the agreement as "utterly worthless and invalid."

"The repeated breach of agreements by the Great Satan vis-a-vis the accord has once again proven to all that the signature of the President of America is now utterly worthless and invalid, and that bullying, hegemonism and savagery are inseparable components of the American creed and doctrine," the statement read.

He added that the United States was seeking to "foment war" and warned that Iran and the Resistance Front would respond with decisive measures.

"Now that the American enemy is seeking to foment war and suffer heavier costs and further humiliation, it should know that the dear nation of Iran and the Resistance Front hold unforgettable lessons for it," the statement continued.

The United States has also struck civilian targets in Kuwait in retaliation, prompting local authorities to advise electricity rationing. The conflict, which began in February, is described by Iranian officials as existential, and Tehran has indicated it will not yield to U.S. demands despite ongoing diplomatic efforts by regional actors.

Khamenei called on Iranians to trust the leadership and remain vigilant as the fighting continues. Reports suggest allied Houthi forces in Yemen may consider closing the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a move that could further affect global energy markets.