Mojtaba Khamenei Urges Muslim Unity as U.S. Reopens Strait of Hormuz

Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued a series of messages via Telegram and social media during Islamic Unity Week, urging Muslim nations—particularly those in West Asia and the Gulf—to unite against the United States and Israel. Khamenei characterized both nations as sworn enemies of the Muslim world who exploit internal divisions to maintain the oppression of Palestinians and interfere in Gulf states. This is his first major communication since being injured in joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes six months ago that killed his father, former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The call for solidarity coincides with a significant U.S. military escalation. The White House and United States Central Command announced that American forces have cleared Iranian sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz, reopening international shipping lanes and effectively cutting off Iranian oil exports. President Donald Trump claimed the U.S. has gained the upper hand, describing the Iranian response as mild.

Regional tensions remain high following the failure of a 14-point memorandum of understanding signed in June to end the conflict. While Khamenei advocates for religious unity, the Government of Iran has continued to target U.S. military facilities and infrastructure within Gulf states. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Tehran would not compromise on national security and may target further U.S. bases in the region.