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March 12, 2026 – Tehran, Iran In a shocking and unexpected statement delivered off-camera, Iran's new Supreme Leader has confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed, and Iran plans to use the strategic waterway as leverage in the ongoing conflict. The leader, whose appearance has been shrouded in uncertainty following recent reports suggesting he may have been injured in early attacks, also vowed that attacks on Arab neighbors would persist. "Avenging the blood of our martyrs," as he put it, will remain a top priority for the regime. The Supreme Leader also hinted that other fronts could potentially be activated, although the specifics of these fronts remain unclear. There is growing concern that sleeper cell attacks could escalate beyond the Middle East, affecting global security. This statement has been met with skepticism, especially given the leader's absence from public view. Speculation has arisen about his health, with U.S. officials noting that he may have been injured in the initial wave of attacks. However, the message remains firm: there are no signs of de-escalation, and the regime appears committed to a prolonged conflict. The Supreme Leader’s comments come amid questions about his legitimacy and his ascent to power. Sources have revealed that his appointment was heavily influenced by the Revolutionary Guard, a faction within Iran’s military that has pushed him to assume the position of Supreme Leader despite initial opposition from influential clerics. If the Supreme Leader is indeed incapacitated, it raises critical questions about who is truly in control of Iran. Even if he cannot physically lead, those currently running the country appear intent on prolonging the conflict and securing their grip on power. In the West, U.S. officials are watching closely, with many pointing to the strategic implications of a prolonged war. The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil passes, could have dire consequences for global oil markets. The Biden administration has made it clear that it will not back down, and military options, including naval escorts for shipping vessels, remain on the table. As the conflict drags on, the situation remains uncertain, with all eyes on Iran and its Supreme Leader’s next move. With tensions rising, the international community braces for the potential escalation of hostilities.