Fact Check: "Iran's supreme leader warns US intervention will cause 'irreparable damage'."
What We Know
On October 18, 2023, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei publicly addressed the potential consequences of U.S. military intervention in the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Iran. In a recorded video aired by state television, Khamenei stated, "Americans should know that any military involvement by the U.S. will undoubtedly result in irreparable damage to them" (AP News, PBS). This warning came in the context of escalating tensions following Israeli strikes against Iranian targets and U.S. President Donald Trump's demands for "unconditional surrender" from Iran (AP News, PBS).
Khamenei's remarks were part of a broader rejection of U.S. threats, emphasizing that the Iranian nation is not one to surrender (PBS). The Iranian Foreign Ministry also echoed this sentiment, indicating that U.S. intervention could lead to "all-out war" (AP News).
Analysis
The claim that Khamenei warned of "irreparable damage" from U.S. military intervention is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press and PBS, both reputable news organizations, reported Khamenei's statements directly from the broadcast, ensuring accuracy in the representation of his words (AP News, PBS).
Khamenei's warning reflects a longstanding narrative within Iranian leadership that frames U.S. military actions as aggressive and detrimental to regional stability. His assertion that "wise individuals who know Iran, its people, and its history never speak to this nation with the language of threats" indicates a strategic positioning aimed at rallying national sentiment against perceived foreign aggression (PBS).
The reliability of these sources is high, as they are established news outlets with a history of covering international relations and conflicts. However, it is essential to consider the context in which these statements were made. Khamenei's rhetoric is often aimed at bolstering domestic support and deterring foreign intervention, which may introduce a level of bias in how the message is framed.
Conclusion
The claim that "Iran's supreme leader warns US intervention will cause 'irreparable damage'" is True. Khamenei's statements, as reported by credible news outlets, clearly articulate a warning against U.S. military involvement, emphasizing the potential for significant repercussions. The context of his remarks, coupled with the backing of reliable sources, supports the veracity of this claim.
