Iran's foreign minister says new supreme leader in good health

2026-03-15 - 17:32

Araghchi Confirms Supreme Leader's Health, Stability in Iran Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi provided assurances Sunday about the health and leadership of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, stating that the country's top authority "is in good health and continues to fully manage the country" as regional hostilities rage. Speaking to The New Arab (Al-Araby Al-Jadeed) newspaper, Araghchi emphasized that "the situation in Iran is stable and everyone is carrying out their duties in their respective positions." The confirmation comes amid heightened tensions following the February 28 joint US-Israeli attacks that killed approximately 1,200 people, including then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Mojtaba Khamenei assumed leadership following his father's death, and Araghchi's remarks appear designed to project continuity and stability in Tehran's leadership structure during the ongoing conflict. Iran's Targeting Policy and Regional Diplomacy Araghchi addressed Tehran's military operations in the region, asserting that Iranian strikes have focused exclusively on American military assets. "We have not targeted any civilian or residential area in the countries of the region so far," he stated, while threatening severe retaliation if Iranian infrastructure comes under attack. "If our energy facilities are targeted, we will also target the facilities of American companies in the region," the foreign minister warned. Türkiye continues to monitor regional diplomatic efforts as Araghchi revealed that communications with neighboring countries, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, remain ongoing. He noted that several regional states are conducting mediation efforts aimed at reducing tensions, with Tehran ready to consider any proposals that would ensure a "complete end to the war." Strait of Hormuz Access and US Drone Claims Regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi reiterated Iran's position that the waterway "remains open to all countries except the United States and its allies," maintaining pressure on Washington while allowing commercial shipping for other nations. The selective access policy has disrupted global energy markets since early March. The foreign minister also made a notable allegation regarding American drone technology, claiming that the US has developed a drone similar to Iran's Shahed aircraft called "Lucas," which he said is used to strike targets in Arab countries. Araghchi indicated this information remains under review, suggesting Tehran is closely monitoring American military capabilities in the region as the conflict continues without signs of de-escalation.