Iran said that it was still assessing if its in the best interest of the country to hold talks with the United States, the foreign minister said.

The aging leader’s message was defiant but somber, delivered in front of a tan curtain flanked by an Iranian flag and a portrait of his predecessor.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei claimed victory over Israel on Thursday and said Iran had "delivered a hand slap to America's face," as he re-emerged after taking shelter in a secret location.