Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ridiculed U.S. President Donald Trump‘s recent move to rename the “Gulf of Mexico” as the “Gulf of America.”
Renaming the gulf was one of Trump’s first moves in office. The Federal Aviation Administration has announced that it will update its data and charts to show the names “Gulf of America”. Google Maps has made similar changes.
“USA has set out to change on paper the map of the world! Of course, only on paper. In the real world, it lacks all reality,” Khamenei posted on X in Spanish and other languages. The accompanying image used the words “Golfo de México” — Gulf of Mexico in Spanish.
Los estadounidenses se han puesto a cambiar sobre el papel el mapa del mundo; por supuesto, es solo sobre el papel. pic.twitter.com/uojYnNq7Fi
— Ayatolá Jameneí (@es_Khamenei) February 9, 2025
Why It Matters
Escalating tensions between Iran and the U.S. have far-reaching implications beyond their bilateral relationship. As Washington intensifies economic pressure, Tehran’s defiance underscores the challenges of securing diplomatic resolutions in an increasingly volatile region.
Khamenei‘s stance signals continued volatility in the Middle East, with potential consequences for global energy markets and regional security.
What to Know
President Trump has also threatened to occupy Panama, referred to Canada as the “51st state,” and vowed to take Gaza by force if necessary.
Khamenei derided Trump’s attempts to “redraw the map of the world,” asserting that such efforts will remain confined to the documents on which they are written. This latest exchange highlights the broader ideological divide between Tehran and Washington.
Negotiations Still Possible
Even though Trump reimposed sanctions on Iran under his “maximum pressure” strategy last week, he has also said he would like to negotiate with Iran, stating, “We will see whether or not we can arrange or work out a deal with Iran.”
On Wednesday, He followed up with another statement, writing on Truth Social: “I would much prefer a Verified Nuclear Peace Agreement, which will let Iran peacefully grow and prosper.”
Khamenei’s Response
On Friday, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissed the prospect of negotiations with the United States, stating that past experience has shown such talks are neither “smart, wise, nor honorable.”
What Are People Saying
President Donald Trump: “As my Administration restores American pride in the history of American greatness, it is fitting and appropriate for our great Nation to come together and commemorate this momentous occasion and the renaming of the Gulf of America.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: “USA has set out to change on paper the map of the world! Of course, only on paper. In the real world, it lacks all reality.”
“If they threaten us, we will threaten them in return. If they act on their threats, we will act on ours. If they violate the security of our nation, we will, without a doubt, respond in kind.”
What Happens Next
With Iran rejecting negotiations and the U.S. tightening sanctions, diplomatic tensions are set to remain high. Khamenei’s firm stance suggests that talks under Trump’s terms are unlikely, while Tehran and Washington continue their standoff.
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