Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has called the expected ceasefire agreement in Gaza a “defeat” for Israel, praising Palestinian resistance for forcing Israeli forces to retreat. Khamenei stated that history would remember Israel as a perpetrator of mass murder against women and children in Gaza, highlighting the strength and resilience of Palestinian fighters in the face of Israeli military aggression.
In a statement posted on social media, Khamenei wrote in Hebrew, “History books will say there was a group that murdered thousands of children and women in Gaza! Nevertheless, in the end, everyone will understand that the steadfastness of the Palestinian people, the Palestinian resistance, and the resistance front forced the Zionist entity to retreat.”
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps also lauded the ceasefire, declaring it a “victory” for Palestine and a significant blow to Israel. The ceasefire, they said, ended the war and prevented Israel from achieving its strategic objectives. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf echoed these sentiments, calling for consequences for Israel and healing the wounds of the Palestinian people.
Iran had initially shown significant confidence during the early months of the conflict, believing its strategic alliances with groups like Hezbollah and militia factions in Iraq, Yemen, and Syria could encircle Israel. However, the war has since inflicted heavy setbacks on Tehran. Israeli military actions in Lebanon decimated Hezbollah’s military capabilities, while pro-Iranian militias in Iraq chose to cease hostilities. Additionally, the assassination of key figures, like Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, further dented Iran’s position.
Despite these challenges, Iran’s government remains defiant, continuing to support Palestinian resistance against Israel. As Iran prepares to sign a strategic partnership agreement with Russia, China has also expressed support for the ceasefire, emphasizing the need for sustained peace and de-escalation in the region.
The ceasefire agreement, expected to be finalized soon, is being hailed as a significant diplomatic development, with hopes for its successful implementation in Gaza and the broader Middle East region.