Khamenei made his first statement after the ceasefire, claiming that Iran had slapped the United States hard in the face

(Washington/London) Iran's top leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said Thursday that the U.S. attack on Iran's nuclear facilities was just a "show" and achieved nothing, while Iran slapped the United States by attacking a U.S. military base. He emphasized that Iran would never surrender. This is Khamenei's first appearance since the ceasefire agreement was reached between Iran and Israel.

Khamenei said in a televised speech on Thursday (June 26) that the United States' direct involvement in the Israeli-Iran conflict after Iranian missiles broke through Israel's defense system was to save Israel. It believes that if this is not done, the Zionist regime (Israel) will be completely destroyed.

He declared: "The Islamic Republic has won the victory and slapped the United States hard in the face..." The United States achieved nothing in this war.

Khamenei said that after Iran's air strike on the US military base Udad in Qatar, US President Trump tried to pretend that nothing had happened, but the fact is that Iran can take action against the US military centers in the Middle East when it deems it necessary. He warned: "This kind of thing might repeat itself in the future." If we are attacked, the enemy will surely pay a high price.

Khamenei has the final say on major decisions in Iran, but before his speech on Thursday, he had not appeared in public or made any announcements for nearly a week.

The New York Times reported that Khamenei's silence has sparked a series of speculations and questions, including whether he was involved in recent decision-making and the daily operation of the country, and whether he was injured or still alive. Many Iranian people who were worried about Khamenei's safety also wrote to the TV anchor, asking him to inquire with the authorities on his behalf.

Limit Khamenei's contact with the outside world to prevent Israeli assassination

Iranian political analyst Safawi said that Iranian security officials believe that even during the ceasefire, Israel still has the possibility of attempting to assassise Khamenei. Therefore, security officials are implementing extreme security measures, including restricting Khamenei's contact with the outside world.

According to the BBC, it is believed that Khamenei has been hiding in a secret bunker in Iran, isolated from the outside world. Even senior government officials have not contacted him.

The moderation faction led by the Iranian president has gained the upper hand

The New York Times reported that four senior Iranian officials familiar with government policy discussions disclosed that during Khamenei's absence, politicians and military commanders were forming alliances to compete for power.

It is learned that the faction that seems to have the upper hand at present is promoting the easing of the situation and diplomacy, including Iranian President Pezenizyan, who has publicly stated that he is still willing to resume nuclear talks with the United States.

However, officials said that conservatives are also vying for power. They attacked the president and the foreign minister, questioned the legitimacy of the ceasefire with Israel, and condemned the continuation of negotiations with the United States as a sign of cowardice.

The BBC analyzed that, on the whole, this war has weakened Iran and also undermined Khamenei's authority. He will attempt to reshape his image, but he will face a new situation and even a brand-new era.