Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump, calling his recent claims of promoting peace “false and insulting.” Khamenei made the remarks during a large gathering with teachers in Tehran, responding to Trump’s recent tour of the Middle East and his statement that he was using his “power” to ensure peace in the region.
According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, Khamenei said, “The U.S. President’s recent comments during his trip to the region are not only deceptive but are also an insult to the speaker himself and to the American nation.” He accused Trump, his administration, and other American officials of fully supporting the killings in Gaza.
“Trump lied when he said he wanted to use his power for peace. Instead, the U.S. has used its power to fuel wars and back proxy forces wherever it could,” Khamenei stated, emphasizing that Washington’s actions contradict its rhetoric.
Reiterates Anti-Israel Stand
Reaffirming his long-held stance against Israel, Khamenei once again referred to the country as a “malignant and dangerous cancer” in the region that must be eradicated. Citing regional solidarity, he added, “With the firm resolve and cooperation of the regional nations, the U.S. will eventually be forced to leave this region.”
Trump’s Gulf Tour Sparks Tensions
Khamenei’s remarks came days after President Trump concluded his high-profile visit to three Gulf nations — Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. During a speech in Riyadh, Trump had labeled Iran the “most destructive force in the Middle East” and accused it of promoting regional instability.
He further pledged that the United States would never allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons, reigniting concerns in Tehran over future U.S. policy directions.
Iran Defends Nuclear Program
In response, Iran’s Foreign Minister Saeed Abbas Araghchi reiterated that Iran would not abandon its right to a peaceful nuclear program. Speaking on Saturday, Araghchi emphasized, “We will not forfeit our sovereign right to pursue peaceful nuclear energy, regardless of external pressure.”
Trump, who has consistently opposed the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), withdrew the U.S. from the accord in 2018 and reimposed heavy sanctions on Iran. He has also expressed reluctance to engage in any new nuclear deal resembling the JCPOA, which was brokered during the Obama administration with support from the EU, Russia, and China.
As tensions escalate in the region, Khamenei’s comments reflect deepening mistrust between Tehran and Washington, and set the stage for a new phase of geopolitical confrontation in the Middle East.
