Khamenei Says US Has “No Place” in Gulf Except “Bottom of Its Waters”

DUBAI (AP), Apr 30: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei said on Thursday that the future of the region would be free from any American presence, stressing that foreign forces are the primary source of instability in the Persian Gulf.

Speaking on the occasion of Iran’s National Persian Gulf Day, Khamenei declared that “the presence of American forces in the Persian Gulf is the main source of insecurity,” adding that such forces have no place in the region “except at the bottom of its waters.”

He emphasized that Iran’s control and management of the Strait of Hormuz would ensure stability and serve the interests of regional nations, noting that countries bordering the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman share a common destiny.

In a separate statement broadcast on Iranian state television, Khamenei also reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to safeguarding its nuclear and missile capabilities, describing them as vital national assets. His remarks come amid ongoing efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump to negotiate an agreement addressing Tehran’s nuclear and missile programs.

“Ninety million proud and honorable Iranians, both inside and outside the country, consider all of Iran’s scientific, technological, and defense capabilities — from nanotechnology and biotechnology to nuclear and missile programs — as national assets,” Khamenei said. “They will protect them just as they protect the nation’s waters, land, and airspace.”

Khamenei, who assumed leadership following the Feb. 28 airstrike that killed his predecessor Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, expressed confidence in the region’s future, saying: “With God’s help, the bright future of the Persian Gulf region will be one without America — a future dedicated to the progress, comfort, and prosperity of its people.”

He concluded by reiterating that foreign powers, which “come from thousands of kilometers away with greed and ill intent,” have no role in the region.