Khamenei warns: "In the Name of Haider, the War Has Begun"

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued a fiery response to threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump, declaring in a social media message: "In the name of the honorable Haider, the war has begun."

The statement marks Khamenei’s first public reaction since Trump made a direct threat on his life earlier this week, reports CNN.

Khamenei’s post, referencing "Haider"—a revered title of Imam Ali, a central figure in Shia Islam—was widely interpreted as a symbolic invocation of resistance and war. In a follow-up message posted in English, the Iranian leader added, "We must respond harshly against the terrorist Zionist regime. We will not show any mercy to the Zionists."

The comments have escalated tensions between Washington and Tehran, coming just hours after a series of increasingly aggressive social media posts from Trump.

In a string of posts on Tuesday, Trump claimed, "We know exactly where the so-called 'Supreme Leader' is hiding. He is an easy target, but safe there – for now." He went on to warn, "Our patience is wearing thin," and demanded "Unconditional surrender" from Tehran. Trump also claimed that Iran’s airspace is under U.S. control—a statement that has not been independently verified.

Khamenei’s response drew swift attention from global media outlets including Al Jazeera, BBC, and CNN, and comes amid rising fears of a broader conflict in the region. U.S.-Iran relations have been strained for years but appear to be entering a new phase of volatility following the exchange.

The Iranian government has yet to release an official statement, but analysts say the Supreme Leader’s words signal a hardening stance and a potential escalation in rhetoric—and possibly action.

The phrase "Haider" holds deep symbolic weight in Shia Islam. Imam Ali, also known as Haider, was the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad and is considered the first Imam by Shia Muslims. His legacy is often invoked in calls for resistance and justice in Iranian political discourse.

The White House has not commented on Trump’s remarks, but diplomatic sources say backchannel communications with European allies are ongoing in an effort to de-escalate tensions.