Why it matters:
Ayatollah Khamenei’s message reflects Iran’s stance against Western-backed military actions in West Asia, particularly Israel’s war in Gaza.
By drawing moral contrasts, Ayatollah Khamenei reinforced Iran’s determination to defend the oppressed and called for global accountability.
The big picture:
As Israeli strikes on Gaza continue, including attacks on ambulances, hospitals, and civilians, criticism is mounting globally.
What he's saying:
Ayatollah Khamenei: “Compare the selfless Iranian medics who risked their lives to save others with those wild beasts in human form who bomb ambulances and hospitals, kill patients, and show no mercy to defenseless children.”
“Who can truly claim that in the face of such savagery and bloodshed, one has no duty? We all bear responsibility.”
“Those who claim to run the world are the ones killing children and civilians. If it's war, let fighters combat fighters. ... Why do they destroy homes and kill the innocent?”
“This sense of duty is what fuels us, keeps hope alive, and forces those perfumed, suit-wearing Western savages to confront us.”
“Falsehood will not last, but it won’t disappear by itself. We must act, resist, and fight for truth to prevail.”
"Our aid workers exemplified human compassion and humanity. We witnessed instances where aid workers provided assistance even to enemy captives injured."
"Our warrior has two tasks: one is to repel the enemy, and the other is to protect themselves. However, our aid worker does not think about self-preservation; they focus on protecting others and enter the field to save them."
Go deeper:
Iran Red Crescent Urges Unified Response Against Israeli Crimes in Lebanon and Gaza
Hossein Vaez
