Larijani said in his speech before US Defense Secretary Hegseth that the Iranian leaders were and still are among their people, but your leaders are on Epstein Island.
Tehran: March 13, 2026 Today, Friday, Iranian security chief Ali Larijani mocked the United States. Pentagon President Pete Hegseth’s claim that Iranian leaders were “hiding like rats,” highlighting that senior officials, including the president, recently appeared publicly at a rally in Tehran.
Larijani wrote on X: “Mr. Hegseth! Our leaders were, and still are, among the people. But your leaders? On Epstein’s island!” – In reference to the late convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein, who had connections to powerful figures in the United States US.
In a separate development, European countries are dealing with… Iran To ensure maritime safety. The Financial Times reported on Friday France and Italy I opened conversations with Tehran To negotiate guarantees for the safe passage of its ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
Sources familiar with the discussions said the initiative aims to protect vital shipping routes and prevent disruptions amid rising regional tensions.
Reuters has not independently verified the report.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical corridor for globalization oil shipments, ensuring uninterrupted navigation is vital to energy Markets. Conversations by France and Italy It reflects international efforts to maintain stability in the region without escalating conflicts.
These developments come amid an escalation middle Eastern tensions with Iran Confirming its presence locally and internationally, even as foreign powers continue to closely monitor the country’s strategic movements.