Iran's Supreme Leader Denies Reliance on Regional Proxy Forces

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei claims groups like Hezbollah and Hamas act independently, as Iran faces setbacks in the Middle East.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated Iran does not depend on proxy forces, asserting groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act on their own beliefs.
Khamenei's remarks follow significant regional challenges for Iran, including the recent fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, a key ally.
The loss of Assad disrupts Iran's supply routes to Hezbollah in Lebanon and weakens its 'axis of resistance' strategy against Israel and the U.S.
Despite Iran's historical support for these groups, Khamenei emphasized that they are not Iranian creations, citing their independent origins and motivations.
The Iranian leader also accused the U.S. and Israel of fostering instability in Syria and Iran, while predicting resistance from Syrian youth against the new government.