Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on United States

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei maintains a profoundly adversarial stance toward the United States, consistently characterizing it as the principal global adversary of Iran and the Islamic Revolution. He frequently asserts that American policy is fundamentally driven by hostile intent, characterized by efforts to undermine the country's sovereignty, economy, and moral principles. This conviction leads him to reject any possibility of meaningful reconciliation, often framing American overtures or actions as deceptive maneuvers intended to weaken the regime. He has repeatedly claimed that the US is on a path toward internal collapse and decline.

This long-standing position informs much of Iran's foreign policy, emphasizing resistance against American global hegemony. He often references perceived historical grievances and ongoing American interference, including alleged plots against Iranian leadership, to justify the necessity of steadfast opposition. Furthermore, the Supreme Leader links the US to other regional adversaries, viewing them as proxies in a coordinated effort to isolate and destabilize the Islamic Republic. His rhetoric solidifies a policy framework dedicated to confronting perceived American pressure.