Imam Khamenei: Our nuclear industry has nothing to do with the United States; if necessary, we will use our missiles again

According to the Sedaye Sama News Agency, Ayatollah Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, in a meeting held this morning (Monday) with hundreds of champions from various sports disciplines and medalists from international scientific Olympiads, described these achievers as a manifestation of national growth and the embodiment of national power.
He emphasized: “You have proven that the inspiring youth of dear Iran, as the symbol of the nation, have the power to stand on the summits and draw the attention and admiration of the world toward the bright horizons of Iran.”

The Leader also referred to the bullying and nonsensical remarks recently made by the President of the United States, saying: “This man tried, through his absurd behavior and numerous lies about the region, Iran, and the Iranian people, to boost the morale of the Zionists and portray himself as powerful. But if he truly has any power, let him calm the millions across the U.S. who are shouting against him.”

Expressing happiness for being among strong and dedicated young people who, through their efforts and victories in sports and science, brought joy to the nation, Ayatollah Khamenei stated: “Your medals have a greater value than those of previous generations because you earned them at a time when the enemy seeks, through a soft war, to demoralize our people and make them forget their own potential—but you gave the firmest response through your achievements.”

The Leader described pessimistic claims about Iran’s youth as baseless, reaffirming: “Our beloved Iran and its youth are symbols of hope. The Iranian youth, through determination and hard work, can reach any summit—as you have already done in the global arenas of science and sport.”

He further pointed to Iran’s rapid progress since the Revolution, mentioning this year’s sports and academic successes as perhaps unprecedented in the country’s history. The Supreme Leader praised the young geniuses who achieved global scientific recognition, saying their achievements bring honor to the entire Iranian nation.

Ayatollah Khamenei referred to the “respect for the flag, prostration, and prayers of victorious athletes” as symbols of Iranian identity, noting that “these young Olympiad winners are bright stars now, but in ten years—through persistence—they will become shining suns.” He also reminded officials of their important responsibility toward nurturing these talents.

The Leader recalled the decisive role of Iran’s youth during the Sacred Defense (the 8-year war with Iraq), when—despite shortages—they demonstrated extraordinary innovation, enabling Iran to triumph over a heavily armed and internationally supported enemy.
He described the scientific field as another arena of pride for Iran’s youth, mentioning that Iran ranks among the world’s top ten in various research areas, including nanotechnology, lasers, nuclear science, military industries, and medical advancements. He added that recently one of Iran’s research centers found a treatment for a previously incurable disease.

Ayatollah Khamenei also warned that Iran’s enemies try to deny or downplay such achievements through misinformation and biased propaganda, attempting to paint a dark image of Iran. “But you, by standing on the peaks of sports and science, have shown the bright face of our country,” he said.

He urged the youth not to lose faith in their abilities, stressing that “while the enemy seeks to spread despair, Iran’s young generation must increase their efforts and showcase the nation’s power and hope.”
He added that some may wish to live abroad, but they should remember: “No matter how successful they become, they will remain outsiders there; whereas Iran is your homeland—your soil and your home.”

Turning again to the U.S. President’s recent statements about Iran and the region, the Leader said: “He traveled to the occupied Palestine, uttering empty and foolish remarks to give morale to the demoralized Zionists.”
He noted that “the unbelievable blow delivered by the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Zionist regime during the 12-day war” shattered their confidence, explaining that “they never imagined Iranian missiles could penetrate and destroy their vital centers.”

Ayatollah Khamenei emphasized that “Iran’s missiles were neither bought nor borrowed; they are the product of Iranian youth’s innovation and scientific infrastructure.” He stated that Iran’s Armed Forces and defense industries built and used these missiles—and will use them again if necessary.

Responding to the U.S. President’s claim that America fights terrorism, the Leader said: “Over twenty thousand children and infants were martyred in Gaza—were they terrorists? The real terrorist is America, which created ISIS and continues to use its remnants for its own purposes.”
He also cited the killing of around seventy thousand people in Gaza and the assassination of Iranian scientists as proof of the U.S. and Zionist regime’s terrorist nature, declaring: “They may kill our scientists, but they cannot assassinate knowledge itself.”

Commenting on the U.S. President’s boasting about attacking Iran’s nuclear industry, Ayatollah Khamenei said: “That’s meaningless. Who are you to decide whether another nation may have nuclear technology? Our nuclear industry has nothing to do with America. Such interference is illegitimate, false, and arrogant.”

Finally, he addressed the mass protests in the U.S., saying: “If you claim to have power, instead of spreading lies and meddling abroad, calm the millions protesting against you.”
He concluded: “The United States is the true embodiment of terrorism. Its claims of supporting the Iranian people are false; its sanctions directly target the Iranian nation. The Iranian people will never bow to coercion or arrogance.”

The ceremony concluded with a performance by the national youth Pahlevani (ancient wrestling) team, which was warmly praised by the Leader.