Mohsen Paknejad said in a statement that the martyrdom of Ali Khamenei had brought grief to the Iranian nation and the wider Muslim world. He described Ayatollah Khamenei as a symbol of faith, resistance and courage, and referred to him as a leader of the “front of justice” and commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

Paknejad said the killing, which was a terrorist act carried out by Iran’s enemies, also targeted several senior commanders and struck a central pillar of the Islamic Republic of Iran during the holy month of Ramadan.

He said those responsible would face consequences, adding that “divine justice” and the determination of the Iranian people would bring retribution against the perpetrators.

Despite the loss, Paknejad urged employees in the country’s oil industry to remain steadfast and continue their work to ensure stable energy supply for the nation. He emphasized unity and determination within the sector, saying the mission of providing energy for the Iranian people must continue without interruption.