Khamenei Rebukes Trump’s Claim of Destroying Iran’s Nuclear Program

An Iranian missile system is displayed next to a banner with a picture of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during Iranian Defence Week, in a street in Tehran

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent assertion that American strikes had destroyed Iran’s nuclear capabilities. Speaking in Tehran, Khamenei mocked Trump’s remarks, saying, “The U.S. president proudly says they bombed and destroyed Iran's nuclear industry. Very well, keep dreaming!”

The comments came after Trump reiterated that U.S. and Israeli strikes earlier this year had “obliterated” key Iranian nuclear facilities. While Washington and Tel Aviv have claimed success in crippling Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, Tehran insists its program remains intact and operational.

Khamenei also questioned Washington’s authority to dictate whether Iran should possess nuclear technology, framing the issue as one of sovereignty and national rights.

The exchange underscores the deepening hostility between Tehran and Washington, with both sides trading sharp rhetoric following months of military escalation and failed diplomatic overtures.