Khamenei urges Gulf rulers to identify real enemy

Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has urged Gulf rulers to identify their 'real enemy,' understand its plans, and confront it, in a written message tied to the Prophet Muhammad's birthday that also calls for unity and mutual defense among Muslims. The remarks, which come as Khamenei has not appeared in public since injuries from U.S.-Israeli airstrikes six months ago, underscore Iran's longstanding posture against Western and regional powers. Analysts note that while no immediate policy changes were announced, the message could influence regional stability, trade routes, and energy markets given Iran's oil role and Gulf influence. Observers say the statements highlight the importance of ideological and strategic alignment among Muslim nations, with potential long-term implications for cross-border investment and diplomacy. Coverage from multiple outlets corroborates the central theme of a sustained push for regional unity against perceived adversaries. The broader takeaway is that Tehran is continuing to shape the regional narrative and alliances through such proclamations.