US President Donald Trump on Friday (February 20) called on Iran’s leadership to enter negotiations for what he described as a “fair deal,” while sharply condemning the government’s human rights record and voicing concern for its citizens. Speaking at the White House, Trump drew a distinction between Iran’s rulers and its population, saying the Iranian people were enduring severe hardship. He referenced what he described as a deadly crackdown, claiming that 32,000 individuals had been killed in a short span of time, the first occasion on which he cited a specific figure.&nbsp;Trump also alleged that Iranian authorities had planned to execute hundreds of detainees, describing public hangings carried out by crane. He said he warned Tehran that any execution would trigger an immediate response from the United States. According to Trump, after his warning, Iran abandoned plans to execute 837 prisoners. “They didn’t hang them,” he said, adding that he had been told no executions ultimately took place.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-absolutely-ashamed-of-certain-members-of-court-trump-lashes-out-at-supreme-court-over-tariff-decision-1771612420264">Trump announces new 10% global tariff; says ‘absolutely ashamed’ of US Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Trump hinted he was weighing the possibility of a limited military strike as leverage to push Iran toward negotiations, though he did not elaborate on what such action might involve. Reiterating his sympathy for ordinary Iranians, Trump said they had been forced to live under extremely harsh conditions.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/asim-munir-abandons-pakistan-army-soldiers-kidnapped-by-bla-1771607681128/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/asim-munir-abandons-pakistan-army-soldiers-kidnapped-by-bla-1771607681128/embed</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Thursday (February 19) warned Iran that it has 10 to 15 days to reach what he described as a “meaningful deal” or face serious repercussions, raising the prospect of military action in the Middle East. In response, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the Security Council warning that any strike on Iran would render US bases, facilities and other assets “legitimate targets.”&nbsp;Amid the escalating war of words, US military deployments in the region have reportedly increased, with American forces said to be prepared for possible action as early as this weekend. The United States has also moved the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group closer to Iranian waters, signaling heightened readiness as tensions intensify.

US President Donald Trump urges Iran to negotiate a “fair deal,” warned against executions, criticised Tehran’s crackdown, and hinted at possible military action

US President Donald Trump on Friday (February 20) called on Iran’s leadership to enter negotiations for what he described as a “fair deal,” while sharply condemning the government’s human rights record and voicing concern for its citizens. Speaking at the White House, Trump drew a distinction between Iran’s rulers and its population, saying the Iranian people were enduring severe hardship. He referenced what he described as a deadly crackdown, claiming that 32,000 individuals had been killed in a short span of time, the first occasion on which he cited a specific figure. Trump also alleged that Iranian authorities had planned to execute hundreds of detainees, describing public hangings carried out by crane. He said he warned Tehran that any execution would trigger an immediate response from the United States. According to Trump, after his warning, Iran abandoned plans to execute 837 prisoners. “They didn’t hang them,” he said, adding that he had been told no executions ultimately took place. Also Read: Trump announces new 10% global tariff; says ‘absolutely ashamed’ of US Supreme Court Earlier in the day, Trump hinted he was weighing the possibility of a limited military strike as leverage to push Iran toward negotiations, though he did not elaborate on what such action might involve. Reiterating his sympathy for ordinary Iranians, Trump said they had been forced to live under extremely harsh conditions. https://www.wionews.com/videos/asim-munir-abandons-pakistan-army-soldiers-kidnapped-by-bla-1771607681128/embed US President Donald Trump on Thursday (February 19) warned Iran that it has 10 to 15 days to reach what he described as a “meaningful deal” or face serious repercussions, raising the prospect of military action in the Middle East. In response, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the president of the Security Council warning that any strike on Iran would render US bases, facilities and other assets “legitimate targets.” Amid the escalating war of words, US military deployments in the region have reportedly increased, with American forces said to be prepared for possible action as early as this weekend. The United States has also moved the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group closer to Iranian waters, signaling heightened readiness as tensions intensify.

US President Donald Trump urges Iran to negotiate a “fair deal,” warned against executions, criticised Tehran’s crackdown, and hinted at possible military action

'32,000 people were killed during crackdown in Iran', says Donald Trump

Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said Iran could agree to dilute highly enriched uranium while refusing zero enrichment, emphasising economic incentives for both sides.

Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi said Iran could agree to dilute highly enriched uranium while refusing zero enrichment, emphasising economic incentives for both sides.

Sanctions on land, aircraft carriers at sea: How US is pushing Iran to the brink

US Senator Lindsey Graham compared Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to Adolf Hitler, calling the regime “religious Nazis” and warning that failure to confront Tehran would undermine US credibility.

US Senator Lindsey Graham compared Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to Adolf Hitler, calling the regime “religious Nazis” and warning that failure to confront Tehran would undermine US credibility.

'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warnof a "regional war" if the United States attacked following heavy military deployments by Washington in the Gulf.
Supreme leader says Washington knows that conflict would spread, Iranians not afraid; in tit-for-tat, Tehran’s parliament designates European armies as terrorist organizations.

In Direct Threat, Khamenei Warns of Regional War if US Attacks Iran | Trump Pushes for Talks

 Iran’s currency has lost roughly 20,000 times its value since 1979 due to US sanctions, political turmoil, and economic mismanagement. The rial fell from 70 per USD to over 1.4 million.

&nbsp;Iran’s currency has lost roughly 20,000 times its value since 1979 due to US sanctions, political turmoil, and economic mismanagement. The rial fell from 70 per USD to over 1.4 million.

Why has Iran’s rial lost about 20,000× of its value since 1979?

The US Special Forces and Iran's elite units possess vastly different strengths. While American units like the Navy SEALs hold a clear advantage in technology, budget, and firepower, Iran's Quds Force excels in asymmetric warfare and proxy networks. 

The US Special Forces and Iran's elite units possess vastly different strengths. While American units like the Navy SEALs hold a clear advantage in technology, budget, and firepower, Iran's Quds Force excels in asymmetric warfare and proxy networks.&nbsp;

Who would win? Comparing the special forces of the US and Iran in case of a war

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly gone into hiding in a fortified underground bunker in Tehran as tensions between the United States and Iran escalate. The move follows US President Donald Trump’s warning of deploying “big forces” near Iran amid fears of a possible military strike. Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed the report, but regional tensions continue to rise sharply.


US vs Iran: Khamenei Goes Into Hiding As Trump’s Strike Threat Looms 

Iran's supersonic anti-ship missiles and swarm tactics pose a severe threat to US naval dominance in the narrow Strait of Hormuz, risking a global energy crisis if tensions boil over.

Iran's supersonic anti-ship missiles and swarm tactics pose a severe threat to US naval dominance in the narrow Strait of Hormuz, risking a global energy crisis if tensions boil over.

'US vs Iran': Can Iran control the Persian Gulf with anti-ship missiles?

The US Navy’s advanced Aegis system and SM-3 interceptors hold a clear technological edge over Iran’s large but less sophisticated missile arsenal.

The US Navy’s advanced Aegis system and SM-3 interceptors hold a clear technological edge over Iran’s large but less sophisticated missile arsenal.

Who has the edge in case of war? Iran’s missiles vs US warship missile arsenals

As the USS Abraham Lincoln nears the Gulf, tensions peak. Iran warns of 'all-out war' while US forces prepare options to strike from the sea using missiles and jets.

As the USS Abraham Lincoln nears the Gulf, tensions peak. Iran warns of 'all-out war' while US forces prepare options to strike from the sea using missiles and jets.

'Trump’s game plan': Can US forces attack Iran from the Persian Gulf?

Israel’s Python-5 and I-Derby ER missiles pose a severe test for Iran’s S-300 and Bavar-373 defence systems. The combination of stealth aircraft, electronic jamming, and Mach 4 missile speed makes interception extremely difficult for Tehran’s air defence network in any potential conflict.

Israel’s Python-5 and I-Derby ER missiles pose a severe test for Iran’s S-300 and Bavar-373 defence systems. The combination of stealth aircraft, electronic jamming, and Mach 4 missile speed makes interception extremely difficult for Tehran’s air defence network in any potential conflict.

Can Iran’s defence systems stop Israel’s deadliest air-to-air missiles?

Israel’s David’s Sling is a mid-tier air defence system capable of intercepting missiles up to 300 km away. Developed with the US, it uses hit-to-kill Stunner interceptors to stop cruise and ballistic missiles.

Israel’s David’s Sling is a mid-tier air defence system capable of intercepting missiles up to 300 km away. Developed with the US, it uses hit-to-kill Stunner interceptors to stop cruise and ballistic missiles.

Can it save Israel from an Iranian attack? Capabilities of David’s Sling system

 The US is rapidly deploying aircraft carriers, F-15 fighters, and missile defences to the Middle East as tensions with Iran soar in 2026. With President Trump keeping all options open, the Pentagon has positioned massive firepower in Qatar and at sea, ready for a potential strike.

&nbsp;The US is rapidly deploying aircraft carriers, F-15 fighters, and missile defences to the Middle East as tensions with Iran soar in 2026. With President Trump keeping all options open, the Pentagon has positioned massive firepower in Qatar and at sea, ready for a potential strike.

'US vs Iran': Is the US prepared for an attack on Iran?

The US military dominates Iran in budget and tech, but Tehran’s missiles and swarm tactics in the narrow Gulf waters pose a serious, costly threat.

The US military dominates Iran in budget and tech, but Tehran’s missiles and swarm tactics in the narrow Gulf waters pose a serious, costly threat.

‘US vs Iran’: Which military really dominates in the Persian Gulf?

Iran uses a mix of Russian S-300s and local Bavar-373 systems to guard its airspace. While capable against jets, detecting advanced Israeli stealth drones remains a complex challenge due to radar gaps.

Iran uses a mix of Russian S-300s and local Bavar-373 systems to guard its airspace. While capable against jets, detecting advanced Israeli stealth drones remains a complex challenge due to radar gaps.

Can Iran’s defence systems stop Israeli drones? How effective would they be in case of war?

The US dominates cyber warfare with billions in funding and elite tech, but Iran’s destructive, low-cost guerrilla tactics make it a dangerous asymmetric threat.

The US dominates cyber warfare with billions in funding and elite tech, but Iran’s destructive, low-cost guerrilla tactics make it a dangerous asymmetric threat.

Who is more advanced in cyber warfare: US cyber units vs Iranian hackers?

Iran's anti-ship missiles, including the supersonic Khalij Fars and 1,000 km Abu Mahdi, pose a significant naval threat. These weapons combine speed and range to target vessels in vital waterways.

Iran's anti-ship missiles, including the supersonic Khalij Fars and 1,000 km Abu Mahdi, pose a significant naval threat. These weapons combine speed and range to target vessels in vital waterways.

'Iranian anti-ship missiles': How destructive are they?

Is Israel’s 'Eitan' drone truly invincible? Know the massive capabilities of this strategic giant and analyse whether Iran’s electronic warfare units could ever hack its systems. how about this

Is Israel’s 'Eitan' drone truly invincible? Explore the massive capabilities of this strategic giant and analyse whether Iran’s electronic warfare units could ever hack its systems.&nbsp;

Can Iran hack it? Which is Israel’s most advanced drone

Iran utilises Shahed-136 drones and fast ballistic missiles to overwhelm Israeli air defences. While slow drones are easily intercepted, recent saturation strikes with high-speed missiles have proven more effective, exposing the high economic cost of interception.

Iran utilises Shahed-136 drones and fast ballistic missiles to overwhelm Israeli air defences. While slow drones are easily intercepted, recent saturation strikes with high-speed missiles have proven more effective, exposing the high economic cost of interception.

Israel vs Iran: How effective are Iranian drones and missiles at reaching their targets?

Amid rising US-Iran tensions, America's special operations forces remain on high alert. These elite military units specialise in high-risk missions, counter-terrorism, and rapid global deployment.

Amid rising US-Iran tensions, America's special operations forces remain on high alert. These elite military units specialise in high-risk missions, counter-terrorism, and rapid global deployment.

Will US attack Iran? Top 7 most feared US military units

Israel relies on advanced F-35 jets and 465,000 reserves, while Iran counters with 610,000 active troops and 3,000 ballistic missiles.

Israel relies on advanced F-35 jets and 465,000 reserves, while Iran counters with 610,000 active troops and 3,000 ballistic missiles.

Who would win? Comparing the military power of the Israel and Iran in case of a war

Israel relies on F-35 stealth and electronic warfare to overcome Iran's defences. Iran counters with deep territory, the S-300, and the Bavar-373. Distance and logistics remain the biggest hurdles.

Israel relies on F-35 stealth and electronic warfare to overcome Iran's defences. Iran counters with deep territory, the S-300, and the Bavar-373. Distance and logistics remain the biggest hurdles.

Who has the edge? Israel's air power versus Iran’s layered defence

Israel holds a distinct advantage in air power with its modern F-35 stealth jets and advanced pilots. Iran relies on an aging fleet of F-14s but counters with massive drone swarms and ballistic missiles. 

Israel holds a distinct advantage in air power with its modern F-35 stealth jets and advanced pilots. Iran relies on an aging fleet of F-14s but counters with massive drone swarms and ballistic missiles.&nbsp;

Who would win? Comparing the air power of the Israel and Iran in case of a war

The capture of Nicolas Maduro by US forces dismantles Iran's strategic hub in the Americas. It chokes Tehran's shadow economy, ends military cooperation, and emboldens protesters in Iran.

The capture of Nicolas Maduro by US forces dismantles Iran's strategic hub in the Americas. It chokes Tehran's shadow economy, ends military cooperation, and emboldens protesters in Iran.

'Partner in crime': 7 ways Nicholas Maduro's capture could hurt Iran and Ali Khamenei

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday (August 24) stressed that the current situation with the US was "unsolvable", adding that Iran would never bow to pressure to obey Washington. This comes amid the standoff between the two countries over nuclear talks.Khamenei's remarks come after Iranian officials threatened Israel with renewed fighting; however, the 12-day war between Israel and Iran ended two months ago.“They want Iran to be obedient to America. The Iranian nation will stand with all of its power against those who have such erroneous expectations,” Khamenei said at a mosque in Tehran, and later published it on his official website. &nbsp;“People who ask us not to issue slogans against the US… to have direct negotiations with the US, only see appearances… This issue is unsolvable,” he added.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-forces-claim-to-have-killed-six-terrorists-linked-to-israel-1755968268299">Also read: Iranian forces claim to have killed six ‘terrorists’ linked to Israel</a>Earlier on Friday, Iran and three European powers agreed to resume talks with US and to restart negotiations on curbing Iran's nuclear enrichment work.The Iranian leader further called for a united national front to confront what he describes as US efforts to subjugate Iran.He said that day after Iran was attacked by Israel, "American agents" met in Europe to discuss "what government should rule Iran after the Islamic Republic."He said that Iran, "by standing firm alongside the armed forces, the government and the system, delivered a strong blow to its enemies."Khamenei concluded by thanking god for his united country. "There are differences of opinion, but when it comes to defending the system, defending the country, and standing up against the enemy, the people are united,” Khamenei added.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-nuclear-talks-still-in-limbo-tehran-says-point-of-maturity-not-reached-with-washington-yet-1755702976855">Also read: The Iranian leader further called for a united national front to confront what he describes as US efforts to subjugate Iran.US-Iran nuclear talks still in limbo? Tehran says 'point of maturity' not reached with Washington yet</a>

Iranian leader Khamenei called for a united national front to confront what he describes as US efforts to subjugate Iran.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Sunday (August 24) stressed that the current situation with the US was "unsolvable", adding that Iran would never bow to pressure to obey Washington. This comes amid the standoff between the two countries over nuclear talks. Khamenei's remarks come after Iranian officials threatened Israel with renewed fighting; however, the 12-day war between Israel and Iran ended two months ago. “They want Iran to be obedient to America. The Iranian nation will stand with all of its power against those who have such erroneous expectations,” Khamenei said at a mosque in Tehran, and later published it on his official website. “People who ask us not to issue slogans against the US… to have direct negotiations with the US, only see appearances… This issue is unsolvable,” he added. Also read: Iranian forces claim to have killed six ‘terrorists’ linked to Israel Earlier on Friday, Iran and three European powers agreed to resume talks with US and to restart negotiations on curbing Iran's nuclear enrichment work. The Iranian leader further called for a united national front to confront what he describes as US efforts to subjugate Iran. He said that day after Iran was attacked by Israel, "American agents" met in Europe to discuss "what government should rule Iran after the Islamic Republic." He said that Iran, "by standing firm alongside the armed forces, the government and the system, delivered a strong blow to its enemies." Khamenei concluded by thanking god for his united country. "There are differences of opinion, but when it comes to defending the system, defending the country, and standing up against the enemy, the people are united,” Khamenei added. Also read: The Iranian leader further called for a united national front to confront what he describes as US efforts to subjugate Iran.US-Iran nuclear talks still in limbo? Tehran says 'point of maturity' not reached with Washington yet

Iranian leader Khamenei called for a united national front to confront what he describes as US efforts to subjugate Iran.

Iran-US relations 'beyond repair': Iran shuts down US nuclear talks - Here's what Khamenei said months after Israel-Iran war

Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning to the United States after the Islamic Republic hit the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Taking to the social media platform X, the Ayatollah wrote, "The Islamic Republic delivered a hard slap to America's face; it attacked one of its key bases in the region, Al Udeid Air Base, and caused damage."&nbsp;"The fact that Iran has access to America's important centres in the region and can take action against them whenever it deems necessary is not a small event; it is a significant event and one that can be repeated," &nbsp;Khamenei warned.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">جمهوری اسلامی سیلی سختی به گونه آمریکا نواخت؛ به یکی از پایگاههای مهم او در منطقه، پایگاه العُدید، حمله کرد و خساراتی وارد کرد. اینکه ایران دسترسی داشته باشد به مراکز مهم آمریکا در منطقه و هروقت مقتضی دانست علیه آن اقدام کند، حادثه‌ کوچکی نیست، حادثه بزرگی است و قابل تکرار است. <a href="https://t.co/YKJIRjfNlZ">pic.twitter.com/YKJIRjfNlZ</a>&mdash; KHAMENEI.IR | فارسی 🇮🇷 (@Khamenei_fa) <a href="https://twitter.com/Khamenei_fa/status/1943765931710460130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came a day after Iran launched an attack on the US air base in Doha on Friday (July 11). Although the attack did limited damage to the air base because the US evacuated its aircraft from the base, Associated Press reported.&nbsp;The Pentagon acknowledged that an Iranian ballistic missile hit Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23 during an Iranian attack after President Donald Trump downplayed the assault.&nbsp;Images taken June 25 and every day subsequently show the dome is gone, with some damage visible on a nearby building. The rest of the base appears largely untouched in the images.&nbsp;In a statement, Parnell said the missile strike “did minimal damage to equipment and structures on the base.”“Al Udeid Air Base remains fully operational and capable of conducting its mission, alongside our Qatari partners, to provide security and stability in the region,” he added, AP reported.&nbsp;This came after the US President Donald Trump downplayed the Iranian attack during the 12-day Israel-Iran war - which was later joined by America. Trump called the Iranian attack a "very weak response" to the US. “I want to thank Iran for giving us early notice, which made it possible for no lives to be lost, and nobody to be injured,” he wrote on his social media Truth Social.&nbsp;

The Pentagon acknowledged that an Iranian ballistic missile hit Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23 during an Iranian attack after President Donald Trump downplayed the assault.



Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning to the United States after the Islamic Republic hit the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Taking to the social media platform X, the Ayatollah wrote, "The Islamic Republic delivered a hard slap to America's face; it attacked one of its key bases in the region, Al Udeid Air Base, and caused damage." "The fact that Iran has access to America's important centres in the region and can take action against them whenever it deems necessary is not a small event; it is a significant event and one that can be repeated," Khamenei warned.

The Pentagon acknowledged that an Iranian ballistic missile hit Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar on June 23 during an Iranian attack after President Donald Trump downplayed the assault.&nbsp;

'Can be REPEATED': Khamenei's chilling warning for Trump after hitting Al Udeid Air Base, says 'Iran has access to...'

A fatwa is a formal Islamic legal opinion issued by a Marja, a senior Shia cleric. It carries moral and religious weight among followers and can direct personal conduct or, in rare cases, call for punitive action. Recent political and religious tensions in the middle-east have seen Iran's Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi issue fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing them as ‘enemies of God’ and urging Muslims to stand united against any perceived threat to Iran’s leadership. However, this is not the first time, the most historically significant fatwa issued by Iran remains that against author Salman Rushdie, launched over three decades ago.&nbsp;<h2>The 1989 fatwa: The Satanic Verses backlash</h2>&nbsp;In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book. The decree was bolstered by a bounty estimated at $2.8 million, and protests erupted across Muslim-majority countries, including bans in India, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Sri Lanka . The fatwa shocked the literary world, forcing Rushdie into hiding in London, under round-the-clock British protection. Reflecting on his impact, Rushdie later said: “What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.”&nbsp;<h2>Continued impact: A global wave of violence</h2>&nbsp;The fatwa did not fade: in the 1990s, Rushdie’s Japanese translator, Hitoshi Igarashi, was stabbed to death in July 1991, and his Italian translator was injured days earlier. Though the Iranian government declared in 1998 that it would not actively pursue the killing, Khomeini’s initial judgment remained officially in force; in 2017, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reaffirmed its validity. Salman had once said, “Frankly, I wish I had written a more critical book..“A religion that claims it is able to behave like this, religious leaders who are able to behave like this, and then say this is a religion that must be above any kind of whisper of criticism: that doesn’t add up", according to The Independent.&nbsp;<h2>The 2022 stabbing: Fatwa’s long shadow</h2>&nbsp;On 12 August 2022, nearly 34 years later, Rushdie was stabbed while speaking at the Chautauqua Institution in New York. Attacker Hadi Matar, a 24-year-old New Jersey resident, rushed the stage and stabbed Rushdie dozens of times, causing life-threatening wounds. Rushdie lost sight in one eye and use of one hand before reaching hospital where he spent six weeks. He had told NPR: “I was rolling about in bed…people have dreams…you don’t run your daily life because of having a bad dream”. &nbsp;Hadi Matar was charged with attempted murder and assault. In February 2025, he was found guilty and sentenced to 25 years in prison for the violent assault.&nbsp;<h2>Why it took so long, and why it matters</h2>&nbsp;The gap between fatwa and stabbing underscores the lasting potency of such decrees, particularly when issued by a high-ranking cleric like Iran’s Supreme Leader. Unlike formal legal rulings, fatwas require no trial or defence, yet they can inspire violent action by individuals or groups who see them as divine commands. Though the Iranian state said in 1998 it would no longer actively seek Rushdie, the status of the bounty remained. Matar's defense claimed he acted under motivation related to Hezbollah and the enduring fatwa. That the attack occurred decades later shows fatwas can continue to inspire violence long after their issuance, cutting across borders and generations.&nbsp;<h2>Recent fatwas: Political leaders enter the fray</h2>&nbsp;On Monday, Makarem Shirazi issued fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Shirazi labelled them as the 'enemies of God', or mohareb for threatening Ayatollah Khamenei or other senior clerics. He additionally urged global Muslim unity against them, warning that supporting and cooperating with them is religiously forbidden (haram) and that anyone suffering for opposing them would be rewarded in fighting for god’s cause.&nbsp;<h2>Free expression versus religious authority</h2>&nbsp;The Rushdie fatwa triggered one of the most intense global debates on free speech. Western governments condemned the decree as a violation of human rights. Critics argue that such fatwas sidestep due process, offering no chance for defence or appeal. Rushdie, even under threat, continued writing: “Instead of just being the person who got stabbed, I now see myself as the person who wrote a book about getting stabbed,” he reflected after publishing his memoir Knife. Amnesty International and PEN have defended Rushdie's right to free expression.&nbsp;<h2>The enduring legacy of a contested decree</h2>&nbsp;The fatwa issued in 1989 remains officially active. Iranian law regards ‘mohareb’ status as a capital offence. Though Iran later signalled a softer stance, it has never formally revoked Khomeini’s ruling.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book.

A fatwa is a formal Islamic legal opinion issued by a Marja, a senior Shia cleric. It carries moral and religious weight among followers and can direct personal conduct or, in rare cases, call for punitive action. Recent political and religious tensions in the middle-east have seen Iran's Grand Ayatollah Naser Makarem Shirazi issue fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, describing them as ‘enemies of God’ and urging Muslims to stand united against any perceived threat to Iran’s leadership. However, this is not the first time, the most historically significant fatwa issued by Iran remains that against author Salman Rushdie, launched over three decades ago. The 1989 fatwa: The Satanic Verses backlash In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book. The decree was bolstered by a bounty estimated at $2.8 million, and protests erupted across Muslim-majority countries, including bans in India, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Sri Lanka . The fatwa shocked the literary world, forcing Rushdie into hiding in London, under round-the-clock British protection. Reflecting on his impact, Rushdie later said: “What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist.” Continued impact: A global wave of violence The fatwa did not fade: in the 1990s, Rushdie’s Japanese translator, Hitoshi Igarashi, was stabbed to death in July 1991, and his Italian translator was injured days earlier. Though the Iranian government declared in 1998 that it would not actively pursue the killing, Khomeini’s initial judgment remained officially in force; in 2017, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei reaffirmed its validity. Salman had once said, “Frankly, I wish I had written a more critical book.. “A religion that claims it is able to behave like this, religious leaders who are able to behave like this, and then say this is a religion that must be above any kind of whisper of criticism: that doesn’t add up", according to The Independent. The 2022 stabbing: Fatwa’s long shadow On 12 August 2022, nearly 34 years later, Rushdie was stabbed while speaking at the Chautauqua Institution in New York. Attacker Hadi Matar, a 24-year-old New Jersey resident, rushed the stage and stabbed Rushdie dozens of times, causing life-threatening wounds. Rushdie lost sight in one eye and use of one hand before reaching hospital where he spent six weeks. He had told NPR: “I was rolling about in bed…people have dreams…you don’t run your daily life because of having a bad dream”. Hadi Matar was charged with attempted murder and assault. In February 2025, he was found guilty and sentenced to 25 years in prison for the violent assault. Why it took so long, and why it matters The gap between fatwa and stabbing underscores the lasting potency of such decrees, particularly when issued by a high-ranking cleric like Iran’s Supreme Leader. Unlike formal legal rulings, fatwas require no trial or defence, yet they can inspire violent action by individuals or groups who see them as divine commands. Though the Iranian state said in 1998 it would no longer actively seek Rushdie, the status of the bounty remained. Matar's defense claimed he acted under motivation related to Hezbollah and the enduring fatwa. That the attack occurred decades later shows fatwas can continue to inspire violence long after their issuance, cutting across borders and generations. Recent fatwas: Political leaders enter the fray On Monday, Makarem Shirazi issued fatwas against US President Donald Trump and Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Shirazi labelled them as the 'enemies of God', or mohareb for threatening Ayatollah Khamenei or other senior clerics. He additionally urged global Muslim unity against them, warning that supporting and cooperating with them is religiously forbidden (haram) and that anyone suffering for opposing them would be rewarded in fighting for god’s cause. Free expression versus religious authority The Rushdie fatwa triggered one of the most intense global debates on free speech. Western governments condemned the decree as a violation of human rights. Critics argue that such fatwas sidestep due process, offering no chance for defence or appeal. Rushdie, even under threat, continued writing: “Instead of just being the person who got stabbed, I now see myself as the person who wrote a book about getting stabbed,” he reflected after publishing his memoir Knife. Amnesty International and PEN have defended Rushdie's right to free expression. The enduring legacy of a contested decree The fatwa issued in 1989 remains officially active. Iranian law regards ‘mohareb’ status as a capital offence. Though Iran later signalled a softer stance, it has never formally revoked Khomeini’s ruling.

In February 1989, Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini declared Rushdie’s novel ‘The Satanic Verses’ to be blasphemous. He issued a fatwa calling for Rushdie’s execution, alongside anyone involved in publishing the book.

The author Iran targeted before Trump and Netanyahu: Salman Rushdie’s 'fatwa' and stabbing explained!

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, intensified his rhetoric against Israel on Monday, calling for a death penalty against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on grounds of war crimes. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Iran Crisis: Khamenei Calls For Death Sentence Against Netanyahu, Gallant

Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei on Sunday (Apr 21) expressed gratitude towards the country’s armed forces for attacking Israel. He also urged the Iranian forces to "ceaselessly pursue military innovation and learn the enemy's tactics," reported Iran’s official news agency.

Tehran waged an attack on Israel on April 13, firing more than 300 missiles and drones. It said the attack came in response to Israel’s suspected deadly bombing of its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1.

"How many missiles were launched and how many of them hit their target is not the primary question, what really matters is that Iran demonstrated its will-power during that operation," Khamenei said.

<h2>Israel's Friday strikes on Iran</h2>

Israel on Friday (Apr 19) is believed to have staged retaliatory strikes in the Iranian city of Isfahan. However, Tehran played down the attacks, with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian saying Saturday it was not a strike but resembled "toys our children play with, not drones."

Watch:&nbsp;Iran-Israel Tensions: Israel's costly defence vs Iran's cheap attack | Sizing up the costs of war

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As per media reports, the muted response from the Iranian authorities indicates that both parties are trying to de-escalate the tensions.

<h2>Satellite imagery shows impact on Iranian base</h2>

Meanwhile, satellite imagery released over the last 24 hours has confirmed the impact of attacks on an Iranian air base. BBC reported that a part of an air defence system at an airfield in Isfahan was damaged in Israeli strikes on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwihv77Wr9OFAxV2wzgGHUKsBigQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-iranians-react-to-suspected-israeli-strike-on-isfahan-712999" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-iranians-react-to-suspected-israeli-strike-on-isfahan-712999&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihv77Wr9OFAxV2wzgGHUKsBigQxfQBKAB6BAgLEAE">Iran-Israel tensions: Iranians react to suspected Israeli strike on Isfahan</a>

However, it remains unclear what type of weapons were used in the attack, over which Israel has maintained silence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei on Sunday (Apr 21) expressed gratitude towards the country’s armed forces for attacking Israel. He also urged the Iranian forces to "ceaselessly pursue military innovation and learn the enemy's tactics," reported Iran’s official news agency.

Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei on Sunday (Apr 21) expressed gratitude towards the country’s armed forces for attacking Israel. He also urged the Iranian forces to "ceaselessly pursue military innovation and learn the enemy's tactics," reported Iran’s official news agency. Tehran waged an attack on Israel on April 13, firing more than 300 missiles and drones. It said the attack came in response to Israel’s suspected deadly bombing of its embassy compound in Damascus on April 1. "How many missiles were launched and how many of them hit their target is not the primary question, what really matters is that Iran demonstrated its will-power during that operation," Khamenei said. Israel's Friday strikes on Iran Israel on Friday (Apr 19) is believed to have staged retaliatory strikes in the Iranian city of Isfahan. However, Tehran played down the attacks, with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian saying Saturday it was not a strike but resembled "toys our children play with, not drones." Watch: Iran-Israel Tensions: Israel's costly defence vs Iran's cheap attack | Sizing up the costs of war × As per media reports, the muted response from the Iranian authorities indicates that both parties are trying to de-escalate the tensions. Satellite imagery shows impact on Iranian base Meanwhile, satellite imagery released over the last 24 hours has confirmed the impact of attacks on an Iranian air base. BBC reported that a part of an air defence system at an airfield in Isfahan was damaged in Israeli strikes on Friday. Also read: Iran-Israel tensions: Iranians react to suspected Israeli strike on Isfahan However, it remains unclear what type of weapons were used in the attack, over which Israel has maintained silence. (With inputs from agencies)

Ali Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel, urges them to learn ‘enemy tactics’

Iran seems to have softened its otherwise harsh stance against the West. In the latest development the Islamic nation's Supreme leader Ali Khamenei addressed possibilities around a plausible nuclear deal with the West in his speech to Iran's nuclear scientists.

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