Iran’s Khamenei Calls Israel ‘Cancerous Tumour’, Labels US An Accomplice In ‘Crimes’ | World News

Last Updated:July 16, 2025, 19:45 IST

Ayatollah Khamenei criticized the US and Israel, calling Tel Aviv a “cancerous tumour”.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (Image: AP/File)

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei launched a blistering verbal attack on both the United States and Israel, calling Tel Aviv a “cancerous tumour” and describing the country as Washington’s “dog on a leash”. Ayatollah Khamenei also accused US of being a direct accomplice in what he described as Israeli “crimes” committed during last month’s 12-day war between Tehran and Tel Aviv.

In remarks broadcast by Iranian state media, Ayatollah Khamenei claimed that Iran dealt a significant blow to America during the conflict and warned of far more severe retaliation if military operations were to resume. He said, “The site we targeted was among the most sensitive American centers in the region. Once the media censorship is lifted, it will be clear how serious the blow was. And of course, an even greater blow can be dealt to the US and others.”

The war, which began on June 13 following an Israeli strike aimed at halting Iran’s nuclear program, escalated rapidly into a regional conflict. Over 12 days, Israel targeted Iranian nuclear scientists, military commanders and infrastructure, resulting in at least 1,060 deaths according to Iranian officials. Iran responded with drone and missile attacks, killing at least 28 people in Israel.

“Fighting against the US and its dog on a leash, the Zionist regime, is praiseworthy,” Khamenei said as he emphasized that Iran retains the capacity to respond more forcefully than it already has.

The war also disrupted diplomatic efforts around Iran’s nuclear program as talks between Tehran and Washington, previously mediated by Oman, have been suspended indefinitely. Iranian officials said this week that there is “no specific date” for resuming discussions.

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