WASHINGTON — U.S. President Donald Trump threatened further action against Iran after funeral ceremonies for Iran's slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei featured public calls for retaliation against the United States and the U.S. president, underscoring the renewed strain on already fragile diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.
In remarks and a message posted after the ceremonies, Trump warned that the United States was prepared to respond forcefully if Iran acted on threats against him or U.S. interests. He said Washington preferred a negotiated settlement but added that military options remained available if diplomacy failed.
The comments came as Iran continued nationwide mourning following the burial of Ali Khamenei, who was killed in joint U.S. and Israeli airstrikes earlier this year during a conflict that sharply escalated regional tensions. State media showed large crowds attending funeral processions, where some participants chanted slogans calling for revenge against the United States and Israel.
Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, vowed in a written message released during the ceremonies that Iran would avenge those killed in the conflict, including his father. He described retaliation as a national obligation but did not specify any timetable or operational plans.
The latest exchange of threats comes as indirect diplomatic contacts remain uncertain. U.S. officials have sought assurances from Tehran that commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will remain secure after attacks and military exchanges disrupted one of the world's most important energy corridors. Iranian officials have maintained that the strategic waterway falls under Iran's authority while continuing discussions through regional mediators.
Trump reiterated that his administration preferred reaching an agreement with Iran rather than pursuing further military action, but said the United States would act if it concluded that American lives or interests were under imminent threat. Iranian officials have rejected what they describe as U.S. threats and have insisted that Tehran will respond to any future military action.
The confrontation follows months of heightened conflict triggered by U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran, subsequent Iranian retaliation, and repeated efforts by regional intermediaries to restore a more durable ceasefire. Despite ongoing contacts, officials on both sides have acknowledged that no comprehensive agreement has yet been reached.
