Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has called on Muslim countries, particularly Gulf states, to strengthen unity and confront what he described as the “real enemy.”
Khamenei made the remarks in a written message shared on his Telegram account during Islamic Unity Week, which commemorates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.
The Iranian leader stressed the importance of cooperation and mutual support among Muslim countries, warning that divisions within the Muslim world ultimately benefit its adversaries.
Khamenei calls for Muslim unity
Khamenei questioned whether the situation of Palestinians would have become so difficult if Muslim countries had remained united.
He also addressed Gulf Arab rulers, asking whether outside powers would have been willing to pursue their territories and resources if the governments and peoples of the Gulf had been united.
He urged Muslim leaders to identify what he called their “real enemy,” understand its objectives and take collective action against it.
The statement placed particular emphasis on unity among Muslim nations as a means of strengthening their political and strategic position.
Iran leader accuses US and Israel
In his message, Khamenei accused the United States and Israel of attempting to exploit differences within the Muslim world.
He alleged that racial, cultural, political and geographical divisions were being used to weaken relations between Muslim countries and prevent greater cooperation.
Khamenei described the US and Israel as opponents of Muslim unity and friendship.
He further argued that Washington and Israel’s opposition extends beyond Iran and affects countries across West Asia and North Africa.
The remarks reflect Tehran’s longstanding criticism of US and Israeli policies in the region and its calls for greater coordination among Muslim-majority states.
Message issued during Islamic Unity Week
Khamenei’s statement was issued during Islamic Unity Week, a period traditionally associated with calls for greater solidarity among Muslims.
The Iranian leader used the occasion to stress cooperation between Muslim governments and peoples, arguing that internal divisions can weaken the broader Muslim world.
His appeal comes at a time of heightened regional tensions and continued debate over the political and security challenges facing countries in the Middle East.
Khamenei remains out of public view
Mojtaba Khamenei has remained largely out of public view since reportedly being injured during US-Israeli airstrikes approximately six months ago.
The strikes reportedly triggered the Iran war and resulted in the death of his father and predecessor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Despite his limited public appearances, Mojtaba Khamenei has continued to issue messages addressing Iran’s political situation and broader regional developments.
His latest statement focused on social cohesion and relations between Muslim countries rather than domestic political disputes alone.
Earlier call for social cohesion
The latest message follows a statement Khamenei issued to Iranians on Friday.
In that statement, he said he had prohibited actions that could undermine social cohesion and called on officials to avoid statements that could weaken public morale.
The emphasis on unity in both messages highlights the importance Khamenei places on maintaining cohesion amid ongoing regional and domestic challenges.
His appeal to Gulf rulers also signals Tehran’s continued effort to frame regional disputes in terms of broader Muslim solidarity.
While Gulf states have their own political and strategic interests, Khamenei argued that greater cooperation among Muslim countries could strengthen their ability to resist external pressure and protect their territories and resources.
The statement is likely to add to the ongoing regional debate over relations between Iran, Gulf countries, the United States and Israel.
