“In one of his recent speeches, the US president said that for 47 years America has not succeeded in destroying the Islamic Republic,” Khamenei said. “I tell you: you will not succeed either.”

“We constantly hear that they have sent a warship toward Iran. A warship is certainly a dangerous weapon, but even more dangerous is the weapon capable of sinking it,” Khamenei added, referring to reported US naval deployments in the region. 

He also criticized Trump, who has repeatedly threatened Tehran with military action. “The US president repeatedly claims that his army is the strongest in the world,” Khamenei said. “But even the strongest army in the world can sometimes receive a blow that leaves it unable to rise.”

Khamenei’s remarks came as the United States and Iran launched a new round of indirect talks in Geneva, mediated by Oman. The negotiations take place amid heightened tensions, including expanded US military deployments in Gulf waters and military exercises conducted by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard in the Strait of Hormuz.

“Attempts to prejudge the outcome of the negotiations are wrong and foolish,” Khamenei said, arguing that Washington’s threats aim to impose its will on the Iranian people. “The Iranian nation will not pledge allegiance to corrupt individuals like those currently governing the United States,” he added.

Hours before the talks began, Trump warned Tehran of “consequences” if no agreement is reached. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Washington, he said, “I will participate in those talks, indirectly,” adding, “I don’t think they want to face the consequences of not making a deal.”

Tehran has maintained that discussions with Washington are strictly limited to its nuclear programme. The United States, however, is seeking a broader agreement that would also address Iran’s missile programme and its regional policies in the Middle East, issues Iranian officials have firmly rejected as topics for negotiation.

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