A senior Iranian religious leader has given a serious warning that many see as aimed at former U.S. President Donald Trump. He said that insulting or threatening Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is a major offense in Islam that could lead to a death sentence.

The warning comes after Trump made a controversial remark nearly two weeks ago. Speaking to reporters, Trump said about Khamenei, “We are not going to take him out — at least not for now,” calling the Iranian leader an “easy target.”

In response, Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi, a powerful cleric from the city of Qom, issued a religious opinion. Although he didn’t directly name Trump, Iran’s state news agency, IRNA, reported that Shirazi was asked about Trump’s specific comments.

According to Shirazi, anyone—whether a person or a government—who threatens or attacks an Islamic state or its leaders is considered a “Mohareb,” meaning “enemy of God.” Under Islamic law, being labeled a Mohareb is a serious charge that can be punished by death. Shirazi said it is the duty of Muslims to hold such people accountable.

He further explained that Muslims who punish these enemies are seen as holy warriors and will receive blessings from God for defending Islam and its leaders.

This statement has added more tension between Iran and the United States, as it is seen by many as a clear but indirect warning to Trump over his public remarks.