Putin Condemns Killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his disapproval regarding the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, describing the act as a “cynical violation” of humanitarian norms. This statement came in the wake of the attacks allegedly orchestrated by Israel and the United States.
In a letter directed to Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian, Putin conveyed his condolences, noting that the Kremlin publicly shared this message following Khamenei’s death. The attack, which occurred in broad daylight, also resulted in the loss of several other Iranian leaders, including the commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Putin shared, “I express my deep condolences regarding the murder of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and his family. This was a blatant breach of humanitarian and international law.” He continued, highlighting that Khamenei’s legacy in Russia would be remembered as that of an influential statesman who significantly fostered the partnership between Russia and Iran.
Moreover, Putin extended his heartfelt sympathies to Khamenei’s family and the Iranian people, voicing support for their grief during this challenging time.
In response, Iran’s UN ambassador Amir Saeed Irabani condemned the coordinated American-Israeli strikes during a recent UN Security Council meeting. He accused the U.S. of violating the sovereignty of nations while undermining claims of fostering international stability.
Irani articulated his concerns, stating, “The Charter of international law recognizes a nation’s internal affairs as a reason for other nations to use force. It raises questions about the efficacy of the rule of law.” He made it clear that Iran would steadfastly exercise its right to self-defense against such aggression.
On the morning of the attack, President Donald Trump initiated Operation Epic Fury. This decision was influenced by Iran’s ongoing attempts to develop nuclear weapons, which, according to Trump, posed a direct threat to Americans.
“It has always been the policy of the United States, particularly under my administration, that this regime should never possess nuclear weapons,” Trump stated. He characterized the airstrikes as a measure to protect American lives following Iran’s refusal to halt its nuclear development.
Irabani asserted that the U.S. attack represented a continuation of long-standing aggression towards Iran. He indicated that leaders in the U.S. and Israel openly claimed responsibility for the offensives and made it clear that regime change was their objective.
