On Friday, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, criticized US military bases in West Asia, calling them a 'paper tiger' and questioning their ability to ensure security. His remarks come amid escalating tensions involving Iran, the US, and Israel, as well as ongoing diplomatic efforts for de-escalation. Khamenei emphasized the Persian Gulf's importance, asserting that it is integral to Iran's identity and civilization. He stated that the future of the Gulf would be devoid of American influence, claiming that foreign military presence has historically led to instability. Khamenei also announced Iran's commitment to safeguarding the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route. In a bid to resolve ongoing conflicts, Iran submitted a new proposal for negotiations through Pakistan, aiming to restore maritime traffic while deferring discussions on its nuclear program. However, US President Donald Trump is reportedly inclined to reject this proposal, reflecting the ongoing complexities in US-Iran relations.