Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Warns U.S. Against Seizing Oil and Gas: “We Will Not Kneel”

Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a stark warning to the United States, accusing Washington of attempting to seize Iran’s oil, gas, and mineral wealth. Posting multiple messages on social media platform X, Khamenei emphasized that Iran’s resources, strategic geography, and energy reserves are highly coveted by the U.S., which previously exercised extensive influence over the country.

“America controlled Iran’s resources, oil, politics, and security for over 30 years. Now, with their grip weakened, they are looking to return,” Khamenei wrote. “The Iranian nation stands firmly and will prevent any such attempts.”

This comes amid ongoing threats of U.S. military action. While former President Donald Trump has claimed that Iranian officials are engaged in dialogue with the U.S., Khamenei’s statements make it clear that Iran is not in a conciliatory mood. Previously, he warned that any U.S. attack on Iran would trigger a regional war. Meanwhile, the U.S. has reportedly increased military deployments in the Middle East.

Supreme Leader Addresses Public Rally

Khamenei, who has ruled Iran for nearly 37 years and is now 86 years old, addressed a crowd in downtown Tehran marking the anniversary of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s return from exile in France in 1979. He reiterated that if the U.S. initiates conflict, it will lead to regional warfare, and affirmed, “Iran stands strong and will remain strong. With God’s will, America’s mischief and oppression will be ended.”

He also described the recent anti-government protests—which began on 28 December over rising inflation—as a coup attempt, drawing parallels to past uprisings such as the 2009 Green Movement. The demonstrations quickly evolved into a widespread anti-regime movement, with reports of thousands killed.

According to Iranian government sources, 3,117 people were killed during the protests, including 2,427 civilians. Meanwhile, international human rights groups and the United Nations suggest the death toll may exceed 20,000, with some U.S.-based activists claiming 6,713 confirmed deaths and ongoing investigations into 17,000 additional cases.

President Masoud Pajeshkian has promised to release the names of all citizens killed during the unrest, though no timeline has been provided.

Khamenei’s warning highlights Iran’s determination to resist external interference and underscores rising tensions between Tehran and Washington amid ongoing regional instability and disputes over Iran’s strategic energy resources.