TEHRAN – Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Thursday hailed what he described as a significant triumph over Israel following the recent 12-day conflict, claiming the Islamic Republic’s response left the “Zionist regime” on the verge of collapse.

In a televised message shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Khamenei declared, “Despite all its noise and bluster, the Zionist regime has been battered by the blows of the Islamic Republic and has almost collapsed.”

He went on to congratulate the Iranian people, calling the outcome a “victory over the false and illegitimate Zionist regime.”

While no official ceasefire terms have been publicly disclosed, the message appeared to signal Tehran’s confidence in the aftermath of a rare and direct military confrontation with Israel — one that involved strikes and counterstrikes targeting nuclear and military infrastructure in both countries.

Khamenei’s remarks reflect Iran’s growing narrative that it has not only withstood external pressure and military aggression but emerged stronger, despite the immense risks of regional escalation. The comments come amid heightened tensions and diplomatic efforts to contain further conflict in the Middle East.

Though Israel has not officially responded to the Supreme Leader’s claims, analysts suggest both sides may now be recalibrating their strategies, at least temporarily, as global powers push for de-escalation.