Ayatollah says Iran 'slapped America in the face' after bombing in fresh threat
Iran 's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, delivered his first televised address after a US bombing raid on Iran's nuclear sites.
Khamenei claimed Iran "slapped America in the face" with a missile attack on a US airbase in Qatar and warned of future retaliatory actions.
His prolonged public absence since 13 June, following Israeli attacks that killed key military and security advisers, has fuelled concerns about his health and future.
Discussions are reportedly underway among Iranian leaders to plan for a future without Khamenei, with analysts suggesting a potential shift to military-led rule.
An official from Khamenei's office acknowledged public inquiries about his wellbeing, urging prayers for the leader.
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