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 U.S. Department of Homeland Security warned Americans of a "heightened threat environment" on June 22 that could include attacks on U.S. soil. That fear appeared to dissipate when Iran attacked a United States military base in Qatar June 23, injuring no one.

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.