Iran's new supreme leader tells Gulf Arab states to 'shut down' US bases

Iran's new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, told Gulf Arab states Thursday to "shut down" U.S. bases amid the war with his country, in the first statement released since his appointment.

"These countries must clarify their position regarding those who have attacked our beloved homeland and killed members of our people," according to the statement, read by an Iranian state TV news anchor, according to the Associated Press.

"I recommend that they shut down those bases as soon as possible, because by now they must have realized that the United States’ claims of providing security and peace have been nothing more than a lie."Khamenei also said regarding Gulf Arabs.

Khamenei, 56, was appointed as Iran's supreme leader after his father was killed in the first strikes of the conflict between the U.S., Israel and Iran. 

Khamenei also addressed the Strait of Hormuz closure, which has impacted global oil prices.

"The lever of closing the Strait of Hormuz must certainly continue to be used as well. Studies have also been conducted on opening other fronts in which the enemy has little experience and would be highly vulnerable. Their activation will take place, if the wartime situation continues and in accordance with considerations of expediency."

In addition, he vowed revenge for Iranians killed in the U.S. and Israeli strikes.

“I assure everyone that we will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs," Khamenei said. "The retaliation we have in mind is not limited only to the martyrdom of the great leader of the Revolution; rather, every member of the nation who is martyred by the enemy constitutes a separate case in the file of revenge.”