Mojtaba Khamenei says “new chapter” taking shape in Gulf, Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday delivered an address outlining Tehran’s vision for a reshaped regional order, declaring that the United States remains the primary cause of instability in the Middle East.

Speaking on the future of Gulf security, Khamenei said the Iranian people would not accept what he described as “enemy aggression,” while framing recent developments as the beginning of “a new chapter” in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

"Today, two months after the largest military deployment and aggression by the world's bullies in the region, and the United States' disgraceful defeat in its plans, a new chapter is unfolding for the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz," said Khamenei in the message read on state television.

Gulf security vision

Khamenei emphasized that Tehran shares “one destiny” with its neighboring Gulf states, presenting Iran as a central actor in securing the region’s waterways and safeguarding maritime stability.

He said Tehran would “secure the Gulf region and end the enemy’s violations in the waterway,” signaling a more assertive Iranian role in managing security across one of the world’s most strategic shipping corridors.

The Iranian leader also argued that the presence of foreign forces, particularly the United States, in countries bordering regional waters remains “the main source of insecurity.”

Warning to foreign powers

Khamenei said that “foreigners who spread evil have no place but in the depths of the waters”.

He further dismissed US military installations in the region as “illusory bases,” claiming they were incapable of protecting themselves, let alone guaranteeing the security of allied governments.

Strait of Hormuz focus

Khamenei said a “new administration” of the Strait of Hormuz would deliver calm, economic progress, and broader benefits for Gulf nations.

The remarks place renewed emphasis on the waterway’s geopolitical significance, as the strait remains a vital global energy route through which a major share of the world’s oil exports passes.

Toward a new order

Concluding his speech, Khamenei said Iran’s strategic resistance had achieved victory and would serve as the foundation for “a new regional and global order.”

He added that the future of the region would be shaped without American involvement and instead focus on the security and prosperity of its own peoples.