WANA (Jul 25) – On the 40th day after the targeted killing of several senior Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei issued a detailed statement condemning the perpetrators, praising the resilience of the Iranian nation, and outlining seven core responsibilities for the country’s future.

 

In the wake of the attack, widely attributed to Israel, Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized national unity and acceleration of scientific and defense progress, declaring that “the foolish and shortsighted enemy has failed to reach its goal.”

Iran’s Leader Makes First Public Appearance Since Iran-Israel War. Social media/ WANA News Agency

Below is the full text of the message, as published by the official media office of the Supreme Leader:

 

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

 

To the proud nation of Iran,

 

The fortieth day has arrived since the martyrdom of a group of our dear compatriots—among them capable military commanders and leading nuclear scientists. This blow was dealt by the vile and criminal Zionist regime, the spiteful and malevolent enemy of the Iranian nation.

 

Undoubtedly, the loss of commanders such as Martyrs Bagheri, Salami, Rashid, Hajizadeh, and Shadmani—as well as scientists like Martyrs Tehranchi and Abbasi—is a heavy one for any nation. Yet, the foolish and shortsighted enemy has failed to achieve its goal. The future will demonstrate that both the scientific and military paths of our nation will move forward with greater momentum toward lofty horizons, God willing.

 

Our martyrs had chosen a path in which reaching the noble rank of martyrdom was always a possibility—and ultimately, they attained what every devoted soul longs for. May it be a blessed end for them. But for the Iranian nation—especially the families of the martyrs and those who knew them personally—this loss is painful, bitter, and deeply burdensome.

 

Even amidst this tragedy, there are shining points to be seen clearly:

 

1. The patience, resilience, and strength of spirit among the bereaved—an exceptional phenomenon scarcely seen outside the transformative events of the Islamic Republic.

 

 

2. The steadfastness of the institutions under the command of the martyrs, who ensured that this devastating blow did not halt or delay their progress.

 

 

3. The awe-inspiring perseverance of the Iranian people, revealed in their unity, spiritual strength, and unwavering determination to stand firm.

 

 

 

Once again, the Islamic Republic of Iran has demonstrated the solid foundations upon which it stands. The enemies of Iran are striking cold iron.

 

With God’s help, Islamic Iran will grow stronger by the day.

 

The key is not to neglect this truth, or the duties it places on us:

 

Maintaining national unity is the duty of every single one of us.

 

Accelerating scientific and technological progress is the duty of the nation’s scientific elites.

 

Safeguarding the dignity and honor of the country and people is the uncompromising duty of speakers and writers.

 

Strengthening the country’s defensive and security tools is the responsibility of military commanders.

 

Serious and result-oriented action in national affairs is the obligation of all executive agencies.

 

Providing spiritual guidance, and fostering patience and emotional stability among the people, is the role of the clergy.

 

And upholding revolutionary passion, insight, and commitment is the duty of all of us—especially the youth.

 

 

May the Almighty and Merciful God grant success to all.

 

Greetings to the Iranian people, and peace upon the martyred youth, the martyred women and children, and all martyrs and their grieving loved ones.

 

Peace and God’s mercy be upon you.

 

Seyyed Ali Khamenei

July 25, 2025

People attend the funeral procession of Iranian military commanders, nuclear scientists and others killed in Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, June 28, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Strategic Messaging at a Turning Point

The Supreme Leader’s message comes at a sensitive juncture, as Iran faces ongoing pressure over its nuclear program, regional tensions with Israel, and the fallout of the recent high-profile assassinations and 12 days of war with Israel and the United States. By emphasizing national unity, spiritual resilience, and institutional continuity, Ayatollah Khamenei sought to portray Iran as undeterred by external attacks.

 

Notably, the message is framed not merely as a eulogy, but as a call to action across all levels of society—from scientists and military commanders to media voices, clergy, and especially youth. The “Seven Duties” outlined in the statement reflect a vision of total societal mobilization under perceived threat.

 

The message ends with a defiant tone: “The enemies of Iran are striking cold iron.”