Iran’s New Supreme Leader Speaks Out Amid Conflict

The ongoing conflict continues to impact oil prices, travel, and more.

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has spoken out as he succeeds his slain father in the role.

Khamenei said the crucial Strait of Hormuz should remain closed and that Iran will continue attacks on its Gulf neighbors. He vowed to attack any U.S., Israeli or allied ship that attempts to cross the narrow strait, which sees one-fifth of the world’s oil pass through it each year.

The leader also said Iran will “avenge the blood” of the 170 people who were killed in a likely U.S. strike on an elementary school. An investigation found American ordnance was probably responsible. It reported that outdated intelligence likely led to the strike on the school. The ongoing conflict continues to impact oil prices, travel, and more.