Pilots and supporting servicemembers involved in the complex airstrikes would be eligible for the new military medal.
Khamenei's speech, which went on for more than 10 minutes Thursday, was filled with warnings and threats directed toward the United States and Israel.
In a fiery press conference, the defense secretary attacked media outlets that reported on a U.S. intelligence report about the attacks.
The effort is designed to show support for legal immigration of more Afghans who worked alongside American forces during the war overseas.
