Khamenei stated that the root cause of the West Asia region’s problems is the involvement of the United States and several European countries, which falsely claim to advocate peace.

He made the remarks during a meeting with a group of Iranian elites, scientific talents, and top-ranking students from the country’s university entrance exam in Tehran on Wednesday.

The meeting occurred hours after the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) fired a large barrage of long-range missiles at Israel in retaliation for the recent assassination of top leaders and commanders, including Hamas political bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh, Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, and IRGC military commanders.

“In our region, the root cause of problems—conflicts, wars, concerns, and hostilities—stems from the presence of the very people who claim to advocate peace and stability; namely, America and some European countries,” Khamenei said.

“If they withdraw from this region, without a doubt, these conflicts and wars will cease, and the countries of the region will be able to govern themselves, govern their region, and live together in peace, prosperity, and harmony.”

Ayatollah Khamenei also indicated that he would soon address the situation in Gaza and Lebanon.

Iran, in what it called Operation True Promise 2, launched over 200 long-range missiles, which, according to the IRGC, successfully struck 90 percent of the intended targets, including “strategic Israeli centers.”

Targets reportedly included Israel's Mossad headquarters and the Nevatim airbase, home to its F-35 fighter jets, according to Tehran.