TEHRAN (IRNA) -- Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati warned against some efforts aimed at undermining government and distorting its image.

""Hitting out at government and trying to undermine and weaken the government which is hard at work, are a sin not easily forgiven by God Almighty,"" Ayatollah Jannati told worshippers on Friday.
Pointing to remarks by the Supreme Leader who on Wednesday criticized some media outlets and individuals who raise doubts about the government’s performance, Jannati said, ""The Supreme Leader's speech in the meeting reveals his serious concern over ongoing situation in the country.""
He said the Supreme Leader has a close watch over ongoing events and will take necessary action if needed.
Ayatollah Jannati also pointed to global financial crisis, saying, “Thanks God, Iran's economy is the healthiest worldwide and has suffered the least. Those states, being highly dependent, suffered heavily.""
On the U.S. elections which led to victory of Democrat Senator Barack Obama, Ayatollah Jannati expressed hope that Obama will translate his campaign promises into action.
However, the ayatollah said that Obama victory will not cause a major change in U.S. policy.
""The U.S. policy in general is based on opposing Islam. Any party coming to power will do the same because that's a core issue. They (Americans) want to dominate the world and capture anywhere to safeguard their own interests at the cost of putting others' interests at stake. They will follow the same line no matter Iraq and Afghanistan are ruined.""
He said U.S. presidents first “bow” to Israel and then go to the White House to take up their posts. ""These are the problems of the world of Islam and mankind. One should resist and be patient.""
He went on to say that the U.S. is on the fall and Iran is on the rise.
""The world people are with us. According to the Supreme Leader, we echo world people's message. Many world heads of state get happy over our stances and somehow express their appreciation (to Iran),"" he concluded.