Khamenei accused the United States of using the ceasefire merely as a cover to further its agenda of forcing Iran into submission. “Trump has removed the mask,” the Supreme Leader declared. “He has shown the world the truth: that America will never be satisfied until Iran is on its knees. But let it be known — surrender will never happen.”
Speaking to a hall packed with government officials, military commanders, clerics, and ordinary citizens, Khamenei emphasized Iran’s resilience and strength. He hailed the Iranian people as proud, enduring, and unshakable in the face of external pressure. “Our nation is powerful, not because of nuclear weapons or threats, but because of its unity, faith, and unbreakable will,” he said.
Khamenei also warned that Iran would not be deceived by diplomatic theatrics or manipulated into weakness through talks that are designed to fail. “Negotiation must be built on mutual respect, not intimidation. When they come with threats disguised as peace, we must respond with dignity and strength.”
The Supreme Leader’s speech has resonated across the country, especially among hardliners and loyalists, many of whom gathered in city squares chanting slogans of defiance and resistance.
While some international observers hoped the ceasefire might lead to de-escalation and renewed diplomacy, Khamenei’s words made it clear that Iran sees the confrontation with the U.S. as ideological as much as political.
His message closed with a direct appeal to Iranians: “Do not fear the noise of war, nor the silence of diplomacy. Stand firm. The world is watching, and history will remember those who did not bend.”