Iran's supreme leader has said that the wave of uprisings in Arab countries is an indication of an "Islamic awakening" reminiscent of the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's remarks were received by cheering crowds of worshippers who chanted "Death to America! Death to Israel!"
The sermon marked the first time in seven months that Khamenei has addressed the weekly Friday Prayers and came as protesters were massing in Egypt for sweeping "departure day" demonstrations to force President Hosni Mubarak to quit.
Top Iranian officials have backed the revolt in Egypt and have warned Tehran's arch-enemy, the United States, against "interfering" in the what they say is a movement of the people.
compiled from agency reports
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's remarks were received by cheering crowds of worshippers who chanted "Death to America! Death to Israel!"
The sermon marked the first time in seven months that Khamenei has addressed the weekly Friday Prayers and came as protesters were massing in Egypt for sweeping "departure day" demonstrations to force President Hosni Mubarak to quit.
Top Iranian officials have backed the revolt in Egypt and have warned Tehran's arch-enemy, the United States, against "interfering" in the what they say is a movement of the people.
compiled from agency reports
