The supreme leader of Iran has reportedly proclaimed that all Muslims worldwide are obligated to defend Palestine against the Israeli air strike on the Gaza Strip that began Saturday.

Iran's Press TV says the country's spiritual leader and highest authority, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has urged all Palestinian warriors and Muslims in all corners of the world to protect women and children in Gaza. He said those who die during an act of self-defense will be regarded as ‘martyrs.’

Khamenei defined Israel's attack as a "planned massacre" and blasted some Arab leaders saying their lukewarm attitude has paved the way for Israel's crime against humanity.

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad also strongly denounced the Israeli attack and called for prompt Muslim action.