Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei  called the US the “main sponsor and engineer of terrorism in the world”, as he expressed his support for the people of Yemen, IRNA reported.

“Those countries which are nominally Muslims but in reality puppets are the main agents behind the crisis and insecurity in Yemen,” Iran’s official news agency quoted him as saying at a meeting here.

He said that Washington was the main sponsor and designer of terrorism, while Iran tackled terrorism. He promised Iran’s support to the “oppressed people of Yemen, Bahrain and Palestine” in every way possible.

The Islamic Republic and the P5+1 countries — the US, China, France, Russia, Britain plus Germany — have been negotiating to reach a comprehensive deal over a peaceful Iranian nuclear programme. Iran sought the removal of sanctions on the country in return for enhanced transparency in its civilian nuclear work.

US President Barack Obama on Friday assured Gulf nations over the perceived treat posed by a nuclear agreement with Iran, saying the US would protect them in case there arises a need.