Iranians living abroad trying to get in touch with their loved ones in the country are being greeted by a strange robotic voice. Associated Press heard the recordings and described them as "deeply eerie and disconcerting." No one knows who is behind the robotic voices on call, with some experts saying it could be Iran diverting international calls, while others think Israel could also be responsible. Ellie, a British-Iranian living in the United Kingdom, called her mother in Tehran, and got this response - “Alo? Alo? Who is calling?” After a few seconds, the voice said, “I can’t heard you." It then adds, "Who you want to speak with? I’m Alyssia. Do you remember me? I think I don’t know who are you," all in incorrect English.The news agency reported that at least nine Iranians in other countries say they have been met by the creepy voice recordings. AP shared the voice clips with five experts, who think it could be "low-tech artificial intelligence, a chatbot or a pre-recorded message to which calls from abroad were diverted." Four of them think the Iranian government is behind the eerie voice on the call. One of them believes it could also be Israel.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/1-000-kg-nuclear-bombshell-why-attack-on-iran-s-bushehr-plant-could-trigger-catastrophic-fallout-1750442777514">1,000 kg nuclear bombshell: Why attack on Iran’s Bushehr plant could trigger catastrophic fallout</a>&nbsp;Israel and Iran are locked in a tense battle with each pounding the other with drones and missiles. Amid the ongoing situation, it has become impossible for Iranians in other countries to gain information about their family and friends as the government has imposed a widespread internet blackout in the name of "protecting the country."&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-israel-iran-war-iran-launches-new-barrage-of-missiles-at-israel-1750471850894/embed&nbsp;Speaking to AP on condition of anonymity, some of these people shared the experience they had with the robot voices. A woman in New York heard the same message when she called her mother, and is completely creeped out. She calls it "psychological warfare". To hear an AI voice when calling your mom "is one of the scariest things I’ve ever experienced. I can feel it in my body," the woman said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-won-t-stop-until-we-remove-threat-israeli-fm-says-delayed-iran-s-nuclear-bomb-by-at-least-two-or-three-years-1750458846468">‘Won’t stop until we remove threat’: Israeli FM says delayed Iran’s nuclear bomb by ‘at least two or three years’</a>&nbsp;Another recording merely has the bot greeting the person in a foreign country with words of wisdom about life. “Thank you for taking the time to listen. Today, I’d like to share some thoughts with you and share a few things that might resonate in our daily lives. Life is full of unexpected surprises, and these surprises can sometimes bring joy while at other times they challenge us.”Meanwhile, there are others who never get any response, and the phone keeps ringing endlessly. AP quoted Colin Crowell, a former vice president for Twitter’s global policy, as saying that the calls are likely being diverted to a default messaging system to ensure the calls are not completed. Amir Rashidi, an Iranian cybersecurity expert based in the US, said the Iranian government appears to be trying to thwart hackers.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Iran-Israel war: Iranians abroad calling their homes in the country are creeped out at listening to a robot answer, saying weird things, seemingly trying to prevent them from contacting their loved ones. Who is behind it?  

Iranians living abroad trying to get in touch with their loved ones in the country are being greeted by a strange robotic voice. Associated Press heard the recordings and described them as "deeply eerie and disconcerting." No one knows who is behind the robotic voices on call, with some experts saying it could be Iran diverting international calls, while others think Israel could also be responsible. Ellie, a British-Iranian living in the United Kingdom, called her mother in Tehran, and got this response - “Alo? Alo? Who is calling?” After a few seconds, the voice said, “I can’t heard you." It then adds, "Who you want to speak with? I’m Alyssia. Do you remember me? I think I don’t know who are you," all in incorrect English. The news agency reported that at least nine Iranians in other countries say they have been met by the creepy voice recordings. AP shared the voice clips with five experts, who think it could be "low-tech artificial intelligence, a chatbot or a pre-recorded message to which calls from abroad were diverted." Four of them think the Iranian government is behind the eerie voice on the call. One of them believes it could also be Israel. Also Read: 1,000 kg nuclear bombshell: Why attack on Iran’s Bushehr plant could trigger catastrophic fallout Israel and Iran are locked in a tense battle with each pounding the other with drones and missiles. Amid the ongoing situation, it has become impossible for Iranians in other countries to gain information about their family and friends as the government has imposed a widespread internet blackout in the name of "protecting the country." https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-israel-iran-war-iran-launches-new-barrage-of-missiles-at-israel-1750471850894/embed Speaking to AP on condition of anonymity, some of these people shared the experience they had with the robot voices. A woman in New York heard the same message when she called her mother, and is completely creeped out. She calls it "psychological warfare". To hear an AI voice when calling your mom "is one of the scariest things I’ve ever experienced. I can feel it in my body," the woman said. Also Read: ‘Won’t stop until we remove threat’: Israeli FM says delayed Iran’s nuclear bomb by ‘at least two or three years’ Another recording merely has the bot greeting the person in a foreign country with words of wisdom about life. “Thank you for taking the time to listen. Today, I’d like to share some thoughts with you and share a few things that might resonate in our daily lives. Life is full of unexpected surprises, and these surprises can sometimes bring joy while at other times they challenge us.” Meanwhile, there are others who never get any response, and the phone keeps ringing endlessly. AP quoted Colin Crowell, a former vice president for Twitter’s global policy, as saying that the calls are likely being diverted to a default messaging system to ensure the calls are not completed. Amir Rashidi, an Iranian cybersecurity expert based in the US, said the Iranian government appears to be trying to thwart hackers.

Iran-Israel war: Iranians abroad calling their homes in the country are creeped out at listening to a robot answer, saying weird things, seemingly trying to prevent them from contacting their loved ones. Who is behind it? &nbsp;

'Do you remember me?' Deeply eerie, creepy voice greets people calling homes in Iran

As the Israel–Iran conflict reignites fears of a wider Middle East war, its aftershocks are already rippling through global energy markets.&nbsp;&nbsp;For US oil producers, this moment has become a strategic opportunity. With crude prices surging, they are rushing to hedge against future volatility, triggering record volumes of oil price hedging trades.<h2>Oil prices spike after Israel’s surprise strike on Iran</h2>On June 13, oil prices recorded their sharpest single day jump since July 2022. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures surged 7 per cent to around $73 per barrel, after Israel carried out a surprise strike on Iran, reigniting geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.&nbsp;The rally continued into the following week, with WTI closing Friday near $75 per barrel.&nbsp;According to Reuters, this sudden uptick gave US producers a rare window to lock in prices above budget for the first time in months.<h2>Record hedging volumes on Aegis platform</h2>The surge in prices led to a rush of hedging activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Aegis Hedging, which manages hedging for about 25–30 per cent of total US oil output, reported record volume and the largest number of trades ever executed on its platform on June 13, as per Reuters.&nbsp;US oil production currently stands at around 13.56 million barrels per day, based on the latest government data.&nbsp;&nbsp;As per Aegis, the June 13 price spike, driven more by geopolitical risk than traditional supply-demand factors created a six-month hedging opportunity window.&nbsp;Hedging reportedly allows producers to lock in future oil prices and shield themselves from market volatility, a crucial move when global prices are affected by sudden conflict-driven moves rather than fundamental trends.<h2>From four-year lows to sudden opportunity</h2>Just weeks earlier, producers were grappling with unviable price levels. In May, crude had dropped to a four-year low of $57 per barrel, amid an output hike by OPEC+ and ongoing global trade friction.&nbsp;&nbsp;US crude futures remained below $65 per barrel, the average profitable drilling threshold, for over two months, from April 4 to June 9, according to LSEG and the Dallas Federal Reserve’s Q1 2025 survey cited by Reuters.&nbsp;&nbsp;That changed overnight on June 13.&nbsp;“Producers recognised that this could be a fleeting issue,” said Matt Marshall, President of Aegis Hedging, as quoted by Reuters. “Instead of choosing conservative options with low-price floors, many opted to aggressively lock in high prices.”<h2>Permian Basin players and lending pressure</h2>For companies like Black Mountain Energy, operating in the Permian Basin, the strategy is more than opportunistic, it’s also financial.&nbsp;“We watch for accretive pricing to our existing hedges and layer in new ones to reduce risk and meet our reserve-based lending covenants,” Rhett Bennett, CEO of Black Mountain Energy told Reuters.&nbsp;Such covenants are tied to the value of a company’s oil and gas reserves and influence the credit available from lenders. Securing high-price hedges helps maintain favourable loan terms.<h2>Options market echoes bullish sentiment</h2>Not just producers, traders, too, jumped on the bandwagon. On the same day, June 13, a surge in options trading reflected market bets on further price increases, as per Reuters.&nbsp;&nbsp;A total of 33,411 call options for $80 WTI crude expiring in August 2025 were exchanged on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, the highest volume of these contracts this year, according to CME Group data.&nbsp;Overall, trading volumes touched 681,000 contracts that day, highlighting how risk events in geopolitics are now reshaping expectations in the energy derivatives market.<h2>What next?</h2>The Israel–Iran conflict has reintroduced a geopolitical risk premium into oil prices. While producers capitalise on the current price surge, volatility remains a constant threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;As tensions in the Middle East persist and the US heads into election season with President Trump doubling down on energy independence, the oil market could see more price spikes and more hedging frenzies in the weeks ahead.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies) &nbsp;

US oil firms seize on Middle East-driven price spike to hedge at profitable levels, with June 13 marking record trading on Aegis as geopolitical risks roil energy markets.

As the Israel–Iran conflict reignites fears of a wider Middle East war, its aftershocks are already rippling through global energy markets. For US oil producers, this moment has become a strategic opportunity. With crude prices surging, they are rushing to hedge against future volatility, triggering record volumes of oil price hedging trades. Oil prices spike after Israel’s surprise strike on Iran On June 13, oil prices recorded their sharpest single day jump since July 2022. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures surged 7 per cent to around $73 per barrel, after Israel carried out a surprise strike on Iran, reigniting geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The rally continued into the following week, with WTI closing Friday near $75 per barrel. According to Reuters, this sudden uptick gave US producers a rare window to lock in prices above budget for the first time in months. Record hedging volumes on Aegis platform The surge in prices led to a rush of hedging activity. Aegis Hedging, which manages hedging for about 25–30 per cent of total US oil output, reported record volume and the largest number of trades ever executed on its platform on June 13, as per Reuters. US oil production currently stands at around 13.56 million barrels per day, based on the latest government data. As per Aegis, the June 13 price spike, driven more by geopolitical risk than traditional supply-demand factors created a six-month hedging opportunity window. Hedging reportedly allows producers to lock in future oil prices and shield themselves from market volatility, a crucial move when global prices are affected by sudden conflict-driven moves rather than fundamental trends. From four-year lows to sudden opportunity Just weeks earlier, producers were grappling with unviable price levels. In May, crude had dropped to a four-year low of $57 per barrel, amid an output hike by OPEC+ and ongoing global trade friction. US crude futures remained below $65 per barrel, the average profitable drilling threshold, for over two months, from April 4 to June 9, according to LSEG and the Dallas Federal Reserve’s Q1 2025 survey cited by Reuters. That changed overnight on June 13. “Producers recognised that this could be a fleeting issue,” said Matt Marshall, President of Aegis Hedging, as quoted by Reuters. “Instead of choosing conservative options with low-price floors, many opted to aggressively lock in high prices.” Permian Basin players and lending pressure For companies like Black Mountain Energy, operating in the Permian Basin, the strategy is more than opportunistic, it’s also financial. “We watch for accretive pricing to our existing hedges and layer in new ones to reduce risk and meet our reserve-based lending covenants,” Rhett Bennett, CEO of Black Mountain Energy told Reuters. Such covenants are tied to the value of a company’s oil and gas reserves and influence the credit available from lenders. Securing high-price hedges helps maintain favourable loan terms. Options market echoes bullish sentiment Not just producers, traders, too, jumped on the bandwagon. On the same day, June 13, a surge in options trading reflected market bets on further price increases, as per Reuters. A total of 33,411 call options for $80 WTI crude expiring in August 2025 were exchanged on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, the highest volume of these contracts this year, according to CME Group data. Overall, trading volumes touched 681,000 contracts that day, highlighting how risk events in geopolitics are now reshaping expectations in the energy derivatives market. What next? The Israel–Iran conflict has reintroduced a geopolitical risk premium into oil prices. While producers capitalise on the current price surge, volatility remains a constant threat. As tensions in the Middle East persist and the US heads into election season with President Trump doubling down on energy independence, the oil market could see more price spikes and more hedging frenzies in the weeks ahead. (With inputs from the agencies)

Oil prices surge as Israel–Iran conflict erupts, prompting US producers to lock in profits through record hedging trades.

US oil firms lock in $75 crude after Israel–Iran strike triggers price jump

In an address to the United Nations Security Council on Friday (June 20), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief General Rafael Grossi warned that attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have sharply degraded their safety and posed serious radiological and environmental risks. Grossi confirmed that Israel’s recent strikes have targeted key facilities such as Natanz, Fordow, Esfahan, Arak, and Karaj, prompting global concern.&nbsp;According to Grossi, the Natanz enrichment site suffered extensive damage, including the destruction of electrical infrastructure and serious damage to its underground cascade halls. Though external radiation levels remained normal, Grossi stressed that the internal radiological and chemical contamination, including uranium hexafluoride and uranyl fluoride, posed a significant threat to personnel within the site.&nbsp;Fordow, a critical site for enriching uranium to 60%, has remained undamaged, Grossi stated. Meanwhile, the Esfahan site sustained damage to four facilities. Similar attacks were confirmed at Arak’s Heavy Water Reactor and the Karaj workshop, although no radiological release occurred.&nbsp;Of utmost concern is the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, where a direct hit could result in catastrophic radioactive release, affecting populations across Iran and beyond. Grossi warned that an attack or even a disruption of the plant’s power supply could lead to a core meltdown and long-term environmental consequences.&nbsp;The IAEA Director General called for immediate de-escalation, warning that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities should never occur” and could result in grave consequences within and beyond the state attacked. He urged the Security Council and international community to support the Agency’s role in verifying that Iran’s nuclear materials — including over 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% — remain accounted for and secure.&nbsp;Reiterating the Agency’s commitment to remain present and operational in Iran despite security constraints, Grossi said, “The IAEA can guarantee, through a watertight inspection regime, that nuclear weapons will not be developed in Iran.” He called for a constructive, professional dialogue with all parties, emphasizing that “nuclear facilities and material must not be shrouded by the fog of war” and reminding the Council that a diplomatic solution is within reach if supported by the necessary political will.&nbsp;The IAEA chief also said that Middle East faces a nuclear disaster if Israel attacks Iran's southern nuclear facility of Bushehr, the UN nuclear watchdog chief warned on Friday.&nbsp;International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director Rafael Grossi informed the UN Security Council that he has not yet seen radiation emanating from Israel's week-long aerial campaign on Iran, including strikes on nuclear facilities. But he added that an attack on Bushehr -- the Middle East's first civilian nuclear reactor, which has so far seemed to have been left intact -- would mean the gravest consequences because it holds thousands of kilograms of nuclear material.&nbsp;"Regional countries have come directly to me in the last few hours to communicate their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and perfectly clear -- a direct hit on the Bushehr nuclear power plant would entail a very high release of radioactivity," Grossi said.&nbsp;Grossi cautioned of just as bad effects even if Israel targets the lines powering electricity to Bushehr, as such disabling of power could lead to a meltdown. A worst case would require evacuations and shelter-in-place orders for zones within a few hundred kilometers of Bushehr, which would encompass cities in Gulf Arab monarchies, a lifeblood of the world economy. The people would have to take iodine and could also experience restrictions on food availability, Grossi explained.&nbsp;Grossi called for a diplomatic outcome and reiterated his offer to travel to strike a bargain."Nuclear weapons will not be made in Iran under a foolproof inspection system that the IAEA can assure," he said.

Nuclear facilities must not be targeted says UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi in statement to UNSC

In an address to the United Nations Security Council on Friday (June 20), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief General Rafael Grossi warned that attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have sharply degraded their safety and posed serious radiological and environmental risks. Grossi confirmed that Israel’s recent strikes have targeted key facilities such as Natanz, Fordow, Esfahan, Arak, and Karaj, prompting global concern. According to Grossi, the Natanz enrichment site suffered extensive damage, including the destruction of electrical infrastructure and serious damage to its underground cascade halls. Though external radiation levels remained normal, Grossi stressed that the internal radiological and chemical contamination, including uranium hexafluoride and uranyl fluoride, posed a significant threat to personnel within the site. Fordow, a critical site for enriching uranium to 60%, has remained undamaged, Grossi stated. Meanwhile, the Esfahan site sustained damage to four facilities. Similar attacks were confirmed at Arak’s Heavy Water Reactor and the Karaj workshop, although no radiological release occurred. Of utmost concern is the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, where a direct hit could result in catastrophic radioactive release, affecting populations across Iran and beyond. Grossi warned that an attack or even a disruption of the plant’s power supply could lead to a core meltdown and long-term environmental consequences. The IAEA Director General called for immediate de-escalation, warning that “armed attacks on nuclear facilities should never occur” and could result in grave consequences within and beyond the state attacked. He urged the Security Council and international community to support the Agency’s role in verifying that Iran’s nuclear materials — including over 400 kg of uranium enriched to 60% — remain accounted for and secure. Reiterating the Agency’s commitment to remain present and operational in Iran despite security constraints, Grossi said, “The IAEA can guarantee, through a watertight inspection regime, that nuclear weapons will not be developed in Iran.” He called for a constructive, professional dialogue with all parties, emphasizing that “nuclear facilities and material must not be shrouded by the fog of war” and reminding the Council that a diplomatic solution is within reach if supported by the necessary political will. The IAEA chief also said that Middle East faces a nuclear disaster if Israel attacks Iran's southern nuclear facility of Bushehr, the UN nuclear watchdog chief warned on Friday. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) director Rafael Grossi informed the UN Security Council that he has not yet seen radiation emanating from Israel's week-long aerial campaign on Iran, including strikes on nuclear facilities. But he added that an attack on Bushehr -- the Middle East's first civilian nuclear reactor, which has so far seemed to have been left intact -- would mean the gravest consequences because it holds thousands of kilograms of nuclear material. "Regional countries have come directly to me in the last few hours to communicate their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and perfectly clear -- a direct hit on the Bushehr nuclear power plant would entail a very high release of radioactivity," Grossi said. Grossi cautioned of just as bad effects even if Israel targets the lines powering electricity to Bushehr, as such disabling of power could lead to a meltdown. A worst case would require evacuations and shelter-in-place orders for zones within a few hundred kilometers of Bushehr, which would encompass cities in Gulf Arab monarchies, a lifeblood of the world economy. The people would have to take iodine and could also experience restrictions on food availability, Grossi explained. Grossi called for a diplomatic outcome and reiterated his offer to travel to strike a bargain. "Nuclear weapons will not be made in Iran under a foolproof inspection system that the IAEA can assure," he said.

Rafael Grossi appealed for a diplomatic solution and repeated his willingness to travel to negotiate a deal

'Nuclear facilities must not be targeted’, says UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi in statement to UNSC

In what may be a big breakthrough amid escalating tensions with Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is meeting European foreign ministers in Geneva. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi will also meet the European Union’s foreign policy chief. The meeting is crucial as it comes after Israel's June 13 attack and after Iran said that it won't negotiate with the US amid an aerial offensive by Israel. It also comes after an Iranian official hinted European countries could be mediators in talks with the US about uranium enrichment. A day earlier, US President Donald Trump said that he would decide in the coming two weeks whether America would join Israel in the war against Iran. The White House also said that communications with Tehran were ongoing.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the foreign ministers from Britain, France and Germany, known as the E3, plus the European Union's foreign policy chief, met at a restaurant prior to planned face-to-face talks with Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier today, a senior Iranian official tells Reuters that Iran is ready to discuss limitations on its uranium enrichment.<h2>Trump's ‘two-week’ warning</h2>The White House on Thursday said that President Donald Trump will make a decision within the next two weeks on whether to launch a military strike against Iran. Quoting a message from Trump, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters, "Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi will meet foreign ministers from Britain, France and Germany, known as the E3, plus the European Unions foreign policy chief

In what may be a big breakthrough amid escalating tensions with Israel. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is meeting European foreign ministers in Geneva. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi will also meet the European Union’s foreign policy chief. The meeting is crucial as it comes after Israel's June 13 attack and after Iran said that it won't negotiate with the US amid an aerial offensive by Israel. It also comes after an Iranian official hinted European countries could be mediators in talks with the US about uranium enrichment. A day earlier, US President Donald Trump said that he would decide in the coming two weeks whether America would join Israel in the war against Iran. The White House also said that communications with Tehran were ongoing. Meanwhile, the foreign ministers from Britain, France and Germany, known as the E3, plus the European Union's foreign policy chief, met at a restaurant prior to planned face-to-face talks with Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi. Earlier today, a senior Iranian official tells Reuters that Iran is ready to discuss limitations on its uranium enrichment. Trump's ‘two-week’ warning The White House on Thursday said that President Donald Trump will make a decision within the next two weeks on whether to launch a military strike against Iran. Quoting a message from Trump, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters, "Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks."

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi will meet foreign ministers from Britain, France and Germany, known as the E3, plus the European Union's foreign policy chief

Iran seeking allies in Europe? Iran's foreign minister meets European counterparts amid continued Israeli attacks

As the war between Iran and Israel escalates and Israel finds an unbreakable ally in the United States, a major question that hovers is - who are the allies of Iran? For decades, Iran has built up a network of militias that shared a hatred of Israel and America, and called them the ‘Axis of Resistance’, but the silence from the resistance forces amid the ongoing war with Israel has raised major questions about its existence and its power in the region. Led by Iran, the 'Axis of Resistance’ included now-gone Syria’s Assad regime, the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, various Iraqi Shiite militias, the Yemeni Houthis, and Palestinian factions like Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Its members shared a strategic goal of challenging Western-aligned powers, supporting armed resistance movements, and expanding Iranian regional influence, particularly across the so-called “Shia Crescent” that stretches from Iran through Iraq and Syria to Lebanon. With the Assad regime gone in December last year and Hamas under severe blow due to the Israel-Gaza war, Iran finds itself on its own in West Asia.&nbsp;<h2>Who were the members of ‘Axis of Resistance’?</h2><ol><li>Iran – The central power and ideological leader of the alliance that provides funding, weapons, and strategic direction to other members.</li><li>&nbsp;Syria (Assad regime) – A key state ally of Iran, serving as a logistical hub and corridor for arms transfers, especially to Hezbollah.</li><li>Hezbollah (Lebanon) – A powerful Shiite militant group and political party, heavily armed and trained by Iran and considered Iran’s most capable proxy.</li><li>Iraqi Shiite militias – Includes groups like Kata'ib Hezbollah, Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, and Harakat al-Nujaba, many of which operate under the umbrella of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and maintain close ties with Iran.</li><li>&nbsp;Houthis (Ansar Allah, Yemen) – A Zaydi Shiite rebel group fighting Saudi-backed forces in Yemen, supported militarily and ideologically by Iran.</li><li>Palestinian militant groups – Primarily Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad - both receive varying degrees of funding, weapons, and training from Iran.</li></ol><h2>Timeline of Axis of Resistance</h2>The Axis of Resistance began to take shape in the early 2000s, particularly after the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, but its roots go back to 1980s.<ul><li>1980s–1990s: Iran began building relationships with Shiite and anti-Israel groups like Hezbollah (founded in 1982 during the Israeli invasion of Lebanon). Iran also supported Palestinian groups opposed to Israel.</li><li>2000: Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon, with Hezbollah claiming it as a victory. This paved way for the idea of "resistance" through armed struggle.</li><li>2003: The US invaded Iraq, toppled Saddam Hussein and inadvertently empowered Shiite militias aligned with Iran. Iran expanded its influence in Iraq, forming ties with local Shiite groups.</li><li>2006: The term "Axis of Resistance" started being used more frequently after Hezbollah’s war with Israel, which was seen by Iran and its allies as a successful act of defiance.</li><li>2011: Iran, Hezbollah, and Iraqi militias intervened militarily to support Bashar al-Assad’s regime, turning Syria into a &nbsp;battlefield for the Axis as the Syrian Civil war began.</li></ul><h2>Who are the allies of Iran?</h2>With the powers of the Axis of Resistance almost invisible, Iran looks at several nations with which it has maintained close ties. Iran’s key global allies, Russia and China, have condemned Israel’s strikes. They have called for de-escalation from both sides. Russia warned the United States not to take military action against Iran. "We would like to particularly warn Washington against military intervention in the situation," Russian foreign ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters. Similarly, speaking at a press briefing, Guo Jiakun, spokesman for the Chinese foreign affairs ministry, said any use of force from the US would be seen as an infringement of Iran's sovereignty and security.&nbsp;Another key Iranian ally - Pakistan - was quick to condemn the Israeli action. However, Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir's meeting with US President Donald Trump raised concerns about Islamabad's intentions. Moreover, in a public statement, Pakistan denied receiving any request for &nbsp;"military assistance" from Iran while stressing that the Islamic Republic has the right to defend itself. "Pakistan's position on Iran is clear and transparent: We provide full moral support to Iran; we strongly condemn the aggression against Iran," Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said.&nbsp;Other regional powers such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey might have slammed Israel, but will not solely support Iran because of their ties with the US.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in the Israel-Iran conflict. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

For decades, Iran has built up a network of militias that shared a hatred of Israel and America, and called them the Axis of Resistance. Why is it silent now?

As the war between Iran and Israel escalates and Israel finds an unbreakable ally in the United States, a major question that hovers is - who are the allies of Iran? For decades, Iran has built up a network of militias that shared a hatred of Israel and America, and called them the ‘Axis of Resistance’, but the silence from the resistance forces amid the ongoing war with Israel has raised major questions about its existence and its power in the region. Led by Iran, the 'Axis of Resistance’ included now-gone Syria’s Assad regime, the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, various Iraqi Shiite militias, the Yemeni Houthis, and Palestinian factions like Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Its members shared a strategic goal of challenging Western-aligned powers, supporting armed resistance movements, and expanding Iranian regional influence, particularly across the so-called “Shia Crescent” that stretches from Iran through Iraq and Syria to Lebanon. With the Assad regime gone in December last year and Hamas under severe blow due to the Israel-Gaza war, Iran finds itself on its own in West Asia. Who were the members of ‘Axis of Resistance’? Iran – The central power and ideological leader of the alliance that provides funding, weapons, and strategic direction to other members. Syria (Assad regime) – A key state ally of Iran, serving as a logistical hub and corridor for arms transfers, especially to Hezbollah. Hezbollah (Lebanon) – A powerful Shiite militant group and political party, heavily armed and trained by Iran and considered Iran’s most capable proxy. Iraqi Shiite militias – Includes groups like Kata'ib Hezbollah, Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, and Harakat al-Nujaba, many of which operate under the umbrella of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and maintain close ties with Iran. Houthis (Ansar Allah, Yemen) – A Zaydi Shiite rebel group fighting Saudi-backed forces in Yemen, supported militarily and ideologically by Iran. Palestinian militant groups – Primarily Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad - both receive varying degrees of funding, weapons, and training from Iran. Timeline of Axis of Resistance The Axis of Resistance began to take shape in the early 2000s, particularly after the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, but its roots go back to 1980s. 1980s–1990s: Iran began building relationships with Shiite and anti-Israel groups like Hezbollah (founded in 1982 during the Israeli invasion of Lebanon). Iran also supported Palestinian groups opposed to Israel. 2000: Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon, with Hezbollah claiming it as a victory. This paved way for the idea of "resistance" through armed struggle. 2003: The US invaded Iraq, toppled Saddam Hussein and inadvertently empowered Shiite militias aligned with Iran. Iran expanded its influence in Iraq, forming ties with local Shiite groups. 2006: The term "Axis of Resistance" started being used more frequently after Hezbollah’s war with Israel, which was seen by Iran and its allies as a successful act of defiance. 2011: Iran, Hezbollah, and Iraqi militias intervened militarily to support Bashar al-Assad’s regime, turning Syria into a battlefield for the Axis as the Syrian Civil war began. Who are the allies of Iran? With the powers of the Axis of Resistance almost invisible, Iran looks at several nations with which it has maintained close ties. Iran’s key global allies, Russia and China, have condemned Israel’s strikes. They have called for de-escalation from both sides. Russia warned the United States not to take military action against Iran. "We would like to particularly warn Washington against military intervention in the situation," Russian foreign ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters. Similarly, speaking at a press briefing, Guo Jiakun, spokesman for the Chinese foreign affairs ministry, said any use of force from the US would be seen as an infringement of Iran's sovereignty and security. Another key Iranian ally - Pakistan - was quick to condemn the Israeli action. However, Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir's meeting with US President Donald Trump raised concerns about Islamabad's intentions. Moreover, in a public statement, Pakistan denied receiving any request for "military assistance" from Iran while stressing that the Islamic Republic has the right to defend itself. "Pakistan's position on Iran is clear and transparent: We provide full moral support to Iran; we strongly condemn the aggression against Iran," Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said. Other regional powers such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey might have slammed Israel, but will not solely support Iran because of their ties with the US. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in the Israel-Iran conflict. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

For decades, Iran has built up a network of militias that shared a hatred of Israel and America, and called them the ‘Axis of Resistance.’ Why is it silent now?

'Axis of resistance' back as Houthis warn US: What is it and who are Iran's allies?

Here are Iran’s top advanced ballistic missile arsenal, including Sejjil, Haj Qassem, and Fattah-1, plays a key role in its defence strategy amid rising tensions with Israel. These missiles offer long-range precision, solid-fuel mobility, and even hypersonic capabilities.

Here are Iran’s top advanced ballistic missile arsenal, including Sejjil, Haj Qassem, and Fattah-1, plays a key role in its defence strategy amid rising tensions with Israel. These missiles offer long-range precision, solid-fuel mobility, and even hypersonic capabilities.

Iran-Israel War: Top 5 Iranian ballistic missiles including Fattah-1 and Haj Qassem

As the Israel–Iran conflict enters its second week, the battleground is no longer limited to the skies. Both nations are now locked in a parallel war of numbers, where missile interceptions cost millions, oil exports vanish overnight, and households brace for tax hikes.&nbsp;For Israel, already burdened by long-running conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, the question is urgent: Can Tel Aviv’s economy afford another war? For Iran, with its currency in freefall and energy infrastructure under siege, the challenge is one of endurance.&nbsp;And now, there’s a new risk looming on the horizon: the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.Here’s a deep dive into how the war is straining both nations militarily, fiscally, and economically and what could happen if Tehran acts on its threat.<h2>Israel’s most expensive war yet</h2>In the first 48 hours alone, Israel’s confrontation with Iran reportedly cost a staggering 5.5 billion shekels ($1.45 billion), according to Ynet News.That reportedly amounts to over $700 million per day, and if hostilities continue for a month, the cost could cross $12 billion, surpassing the final bill for the 2023 Gaza war.&nbsp;Driving these soaring costs are Israel’s advanced defence systems. Each David’s Sling or Arrow-3 missile interception costs anywhere between $700,000 and $4 million, as reported by the Institute for National Security Studies.The deployment of F-35 fighter jets over Iranian territory adds further strain, with flight operations costing $10,000 per hour per jet, excluding ammunition and logistics.&nbsp;Israel could reportedly be spending up to $1 billion per day on military operations alone.<h2>Budget pressures and the deficit test</h2>To fund this military mobilisation, Israel has significantly expanded its defence budget, from $17 billion in 2023 to $28 billion in 2024, and a projected $34 billion in 2025. That would amount to nearly 9 per cent of GDP, second only to Ukraine, according to SIPRI.To finance the surge, the government has increased Value Added Tax (VAT) to 18 per cent, alongside hikes in healthcare and national insurance. However, these measures may fall short.&nbsp;The Ministry of Finance warns that Israel could breach its 4.9 per cent deficit ceiling (approximately $27.6 billion). Compounding the issue, GDP growth forecasts for 2025 have been slashed, from 4.3 per cent to 3.6 per cent, according to the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics.<h2>Civilian costs add to the burden</h2>The economic impact of the war is being felt far beyond the battlefield. Over 5,000 Israeli civilians have been evacuated due to missile strikes from Iran, with the government footing the bill for temporary accommodation in hotels, as per Israel’s National Public Diplomacy Directorate.Damage to urban infrastructure is extensive. Engineers quoted by Reuters say restoring just one damaged skyscraper in Tel Aviv could cost tens of millions of dollars.&nbsp;Meanwhile, day-to-day life remains disrupted: Israel’s main international airport was shut for several days, schools remain closed, and only partial workplace re-openings have been permitted by civil defence authorities.<h2>Tech resilience vs workforce crunch</h2>Israel’s high-tech sector remains a relative bright spot. Contributing 20 per cent of GDP and 64 per cent of national exports, the industry has shown resilience even during wartime.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange continues to outperform global peers, reflecting cautious investor confidence.&nbsp;Yet cracks are emerging. For the first time in a decade, employment in the tech sector declined in 2024, according to the Israel Innovation Authority. Skilled workers are increasingly choosing to relocate abroad, triggering fears of a brain drain.&nbsp;At the same time, widespread reservist call-ups, the cancellation of Palestinian work permits, and logistical bottlenecks have caused over 60,000 Israeli firms to shut down this year, as reported by CofaceBDI.<h2>What if Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz?</h2>Amid mounting pressure, Iran has repeated its long-standing threat: to close the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway, just 33 kilometres wide, is the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint.&nbsp;Every day, around 21 million barrels of crude oil and over one-third of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) flow through this strait.It connects the Persian Gulf to global markets, enabling energy exports from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Iran, and the UAE, most of which head to Asia.&nbsp;While Tehran has made similar threats in the past, it has never fully acted. Even during the 1980s “Tanker War,” when over 450 vessels were attacked, the Strait remained partially open. Today, the threat alone is enough to rattle global markets.&nbsp;According to Kpler, oil prices have already jumped, with Brent crude touching a five-month high. Analysts warn that if Iran attempts even a partial blockade, prices could cross $100 per barrel.&nbsp;However, a closure would hurt Iran, too. Over 90 per cent of Iranian oil, much of it routed unofficiallygoes to China.&nbsp;If the Strait shuts down, Tehran risks cutting off its own revenue lifeline. China, Iran’s top buyer, is unlikely to support such a move.The US, which sources most of its oil from Canada, would remain relatively insulated. Israel imports oil via the Mediterranean, largely from Azerbaijan, Gabon, and the US, so its direct exposure is minimal.&nbsp;But nations like India, Japan, and South Korea—heavily reliant on Gulf energy would face severe supply disruptions. Insurance and shipping costs through the Strait have already spiked amid growing security concerns.&nbsp;In short: the Strait of Hormuz is the global oil artery. Even short-term disruptions could cause lasting economic shockwaves.<h2>Oil market enters panic zone</h2>The financial markets are already showing signs of strain.&nbsp;From below $63 a barrel at the end of May, Brent crude surged above $77, driven by fears of conflict escalation, as per Reuters. While prices briefly fell by 2 per cent on Friday, Brent is still set for its third straight weekly gain.&nbsp;Citigroup has warned that if Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz, oil could spike to $90. Jennifer McKeown, chief global economist at Capital Economics, says if the US becomes directly involved in the war, Brent could surge to as high as $130–$150 per barrel.&nbsp;Almost 20 per cent of global oil flows through the Strait, making it a critical vulnerability. Current Brent prices also carry a $10 geopolitical premium, according to traders quoted by Bloomberg.&nbsp;Meanwhile, China’s record oil stockpiles are offering some buffer. As the biggest buyer of Iranian crude, Chinese refiners remain calm for now despite the crisis building in West Asia.&nbsp;However, a further jump in crude could derail monetary easing plans by central banks. A surge in oil-driven inflation is a risk major economies want to avoid, especially amid Trump’s renewed tariff policies.&nbsp;As Reuters reports, central banks are likely to delay rate cuts if oil breaches the $100 threshold again. For now, markets are bracing for volatility but haven’t fully priced in the worst-case scenario yet.<h2>What about Iran’s economy?</h2>Iran, long under US-led sanctions, is facing fresh economic wounds as Israeli airstrikes target its energy infrastructure.&nbsp;According to Kpler, Iranian oil exports have fallen sharply, from 242,000 barrels per day earlier this year to just 102,000 bpd in the week ending June 16. Israeli missiles have partially disabled the South Pars gas field, which is responsible for 80 per cent of Iran’s natural gas production.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kharg Island, Iran’s primary export terminal for crude oil—has seen no tanker movement since last Friday, based on LSEG satellite data. That effectively freezes most of Iran’s seaborne oil exports.<h2>Tehran’s finances under fire</h2>Even before the latest conflict, Iran’s economy was running on thin margins. The Iranian rial has lost over 90 per cent of its value since 2018.Inflation is officially at 40 per cent, but independent analysts such as TS Lombard estimate it could be even higher.&nbsp;Iran’s oil revenue, once exceeding $100 billion in 2016—was just $50 billion across 2022–23, according to the US Energy Information Administration.Roughly 22–27 per cent of Iranians now live below the poverty line, according to the Institute of Labour and Social Welfare, as cited by Tasnim News.Tehran allocates about 3–5 per cent of GDP, around $12 billion annually for military purposes.&nbsp;&nbsp;While its $33 billion in foreign reserves provides a cushion, analysts warn that using these reserves to fund extended military operations would threaten Iran’s long-term solvency.<h2>Who will blink first?</h2>Both Israel and Iran are approaching economic red lines.&nbsp;For Israel, the challenge lies in juggling three simultaneous fronts—Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran—without crossing critical fiscal thresholds. Ratings agency S&amp;P has hinted that a prolonged conflict could trigger a credit downgrade, raising Israel’s borrowing costs and spooking investors.Iran’s situation is arguably more precarious. With energy revenues slashed, inflation surging, and no real access to global financial systems, Tehran has fewer levers to pull.&nbsp;Unlike Israel, it cannot borrow easily or attract foreign investment.&nbsp;Neither side wants a drawn-out war. But every extra day of conflict piles on economic risk and tests national endurance.As this isn’t just a military clash—it’s a test of economic survival. &nbsp;

Amid mounting pressure, Iran has repeated its long-standing threat: to close the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway, just 33 kilometres wide, is the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint.

As the Israel–Iran conflict enters its second week, the battleground is no longer limited to the skies. Both nations are now locked in a parallel war of numbers, where missile interceptions cost millions, oil exports vanish overnight, and households brace for tax hikes. For Israel, already burdened by long-running conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, the question is urgent: Can Tel Aviv’s economy afford another war? For Iran, with its currency in freefall and energy infrastructure under siege, the challenge is one of endurance. And now, there’s a new risk looming on the horizon: the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. Here’s a deep dive into how the war is straining both nations militarily, fiscally, and economically and what could happen if Tehran acts on its threat. Israel’s most expensive war yet In the first 48 hours alone, Israel’s confrontation with Iran reportedly cost a staggering 5.5 billion shekels ($1.45 billion), according to Ynet News. That reportedly amounts to over $700 million per day, and if hostilities continue for a month, the cost could cross $12 billion, surpassing the final bill for the 2023 Gaza war. Driving these soaring costs are Israel’s advanced defence systems. Each David’s Sling or Arrow-3 missile interception costs anywhere between $700,000 and $4 million, as reported by the Institute for National Security Studies. The deployment of F-35 fighter jets over Iranian territory adds further strain, with flight operations costing $10,000 per hour per jet, excluding ammunition and logistics. Israel could reportedly be spending up to $1 billion per day on military operations alone. Budget pressures and the deficit test To fund this military mobilisation, Israel has significantly expanded its defence budget, from $17 billion in 2023 to $28 billion in 2024, and a projected $34 billion in 2025. That would amount to nearly 9 per cent of GDP, second only to Ukraine, according to SIPRI. To finance the surge, the government has increased Value Added Tax (VAT) to 18 per cent, alongside hikes in healthcare and national insurance. However, these measures may fall short. The Ministry of Finance warns that Israel could breach its 4.9 per cent deficit ceiling (approximately $27.6 billion). Compounding the issue, GDP growth forecasts for 2025 have been slashed, from 4.3 per cent to 3.6 per cent, according to the Israel Central Bureau of Statistics. Civilian costs add to the burden The economic impact of the war is being felt far beyond the battlefield. Over 5,000 Israeli civilians have been evacuated due to missile strikes from Iran, with the government footing the bill for temporary accommodation in hotels, as per Israel’s National Public Diplomacy Directorate. Damage to urban infrastructure is extensive. Engineers quoted by Reuters say restoring just one damaged skyscraper in Tel Aviv could cost tens of millions of dollars. Meanwhile, day-to-day life remains disrupted: Israel’s main international airport was shut for several days, schools remain closed, and only partial workplace re-openings have been permitted by civil defence authorities. Tech resilience vs workforce crunch Israel’s high-tech sector remains a relative bright spot. Contributing 20 per cent of GDP and 64 per cent of national exports, the industry has shown resilience even during wartime. The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange continues to outperform global peers, reflecting cautious investor confidence. Yet cracks are emerging. For the first time in a decade, employment in the tech sector declined in 2024, according to the Israel Innovation Authority. Skilled workers are increasingly choosing to relocate abroad, triggering fears of a brain drain. At the same time, widespread reservist call-ups, the cancellation of Palestinian work permits, and logistical bottlenecks have caused over 60,000 Israeli firms to shut down this year, as reported by CofaceBDI. What if Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz? Amid mounting pressure, Iran has repeated its long-standing threat: to close the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow waterway, just 33 kilometres wide, is the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint. Every day, around 21 million barrels of crude oil and over one-third of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) flow through this strait. It connects the Persian Gulf to global markets, enabling energy exports from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Iran, and the UAE, most of which head to Asia. While Tehran has made similar threats in the past, it has never fully acted. Even during the 1980s “Tanker War,” when over 450 vessels were attacked, the Strait remained partially open. Today, the threat alone is enough to rattle global markets. According to Kpler, oil prices have already jumped, with Brent crude touching a five-month high. Analysts warn that if Iran attempts even a partial blockade, prices could cross $100 per barrel. However, a closure would hurt Iran, too. Over 90 per cent of Iranian oil, much of it routed unofficiallygoes to China. If the Strait shuts down, Tehran risks cutting off its own revenue lifeline. China, Iran’s top buyer, is unlikely to support such a move. The US, which sources most of its oil from Canada, would remain relatively insulated. Israel imports oil via the Mediterranean, largely from Azerbaijan, Gabon, and the US, so its direct exposure is minimal. But nations like India, Japan, and South Korea—heavily reliant on Gulf energy would face severe supply disruptions. Insurance and shipping costs through the Strait have already spiked amid growing security concerns. In short: the Strait of Hormuz is the global oil artery. Even short-term disruptions could cause lasting economic shockwaves. Oil market enters panic zone The financial markets are already showing signs of strain. From below $63 a barrel at the end of May, Brent crude surged above $77, driven by fears of conflict escalation, as per Reuters. While prices briefly fell by 2 per cent on Friday, Brent is still set for its third straight weekly gain. Citigroup has warned that if Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz, oil could spike to $90. Jennifer McKeown, chief global economist at Capital Economics, says if the US becomes directly involved in the war, Brent could surge to as high as $130–$150 per barrel. Almost 20 per cent of global oil flows through the Strait, making it a critical vulnerability. Current Brent prices also carry a $10 geopolitical premium, according to traders quoted by Bloomberg. Meanwhile, China’s record oil stockpiles are offering some buffer. As the biggest buyer of Iranian crude, Chinese refiners remain calm for now despite the crisis building in West Asia. However, a further jump in crude could derail monetary easing plans by central banks. A surge in oil-driven inflation is a risk major economies want to avoid, especially amid Trump’s renewed tariff policies. As Reuters reports, central banks are likely to delay rate cuts if oil breaches the $100 threshold again. For now, markets are bracing for volatility but haven’t fully priced in the worst-case scenario yet. What about Iran’s economy? Iran, long under US-led sanctions, is facing fresh economic wounds as Israeli airstrikes target its energy infrastructure. According to Kpler, Iranian oil exports have fallen sharply, from 242,000 barrels per day earlier this year to just 102,000 bpd in the week ending June 16. Israeli missiles have partially disabled the South Pars gas field, which is responsible for 80 per cent of Iran’s natural gas production. Meanwhile, Kharg Island, Iran’s primary export terminal for crude oil—has seen no tanker movement since last Friday, based on LSEG satellite data. That effectively freezes most of Iran’s seaborne oil exports. Tehran’s finances under fire Even before the latest conflict, Iran’s economy was running on thin margins. The Iranian rial has lost over 90 per cent of its value since 2018. Inflation is officially at 40 per cent, but independent analysts such as TS Lombard estimate it could be even higher. Iran’s oil revenue, once exceeding $100 billion in 2016—was just $50 billion across 2022–23, according to the US Energy Information Administration. Roughly 22–27 per cent of Iranians now live below the poverty line, according to the Institute of Labour and Social Welfare, as cited by Tasnim News. Tehran allocates about 3–5 per cent of GDP, around $12 billion annually for military purposes. While its $33 billion in foreign reserves provides a cushion, analysts warn that using these reserves to fund extended military operations would threaten Iran’s long-term solvency. Who will blink first? Both Israel and Iran are approaching economic red lines. For Israel, the challenge lies in juggling three simultaneous fronts—Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran—without crossing critical fiscal thresholds. Ratings agency S&P has hinted that a prolonged conflict could trigger a credit downgrade, raising Israel’s borrowing costs and spooking investors. Iran’s situation is arguably more precarious. With energy revenues slashed, inflation surging, and no real access to global financial systems, Tehran has fewer levers to pull. Unlike Israel, it cannot borrow easily or attract foreign investment. Neither side wants a drawn-out war. But every extra day of conflict piles on economic risk and tests national endurance. As this isn’t just a military clash—it’s a test of economic survival.

From missile defence bills to shrinking oil exports and inflation crises , Israel and Iran are both waging wars their economies might not afford. Here’s how the fighting is reshaping financial futures in West Asia.

Israel–Iran war strains economies: What happens if Strait of Hormuz shuts down?

Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, on June 18, rejected US President Donald Trump’s call for Iran’s unconditional surrender. He also said that Israel had made a serious mistake by attacking Iran.&nbsp;In a message posted on X, Khamenei stated, “Those familiar with Iran’s history would never address this nation with threats, as the Iranian people will never surrender. The Americans must understand that any military intervention will inflict irreversible damage.”&nbsp;This is not the first time Khamenei has sent strong warnings to the US or highlighted the tense ties between the two countries. Khamenei, who became Iran’s Supreme Leader in 1989 after Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s death, has spent most of his life defending the ideals of the Iranian revolution.&nbsp;Who is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?&nbsp;Ali Khamenei was born in 1939 in Mashhad, a city in northern Iran. He was the second of eight children in a family. His father was a religious scholar. Following in his father’s footsteps, Khamenei studied religion in Qom between 1958 and 1964. He joined Ayatollah Khomeini’s movement against the Shah in 1962.&nbsp;Khamenei was jailed several times by the Shah’s government. He played an important role in the 1979 revolution and later became Iran’s president from 1981 to 1989. During this time, he led the country through the Iran-Iraq war. After Ayatollah Khomeini’s death, Khamenei became the Supreme Leader.&nbsp;In his early years, Khamenei was interested in both religious and intellectual ideas and often discussed these with thinkers from different backgrounds.&nbsp;When did Khamenei become Supreme Leader?&nbsp;Khamenei has been Iran’s top leader since 1989, after the death of the country’s first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Khomeini led Iran for ten years after overthrowing Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.&nbsp;&nbsp;After Khomeini’s death, Khamenei was selected as Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts. Before that, he was president of Iran for eight years.

Khamenei has been Iran’s top leader since 1989, after the death of the country’s first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Khomeini led Iran for ten years after overthrowing Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. 

Ayatollah Ali Hosseini Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, on June 18, rejected US President Donald Trump’s call for Iran’s unconditional surrender. He also said that Israel had made a serious mistake by attacking Iran. In a message posted on X, Khamenei stated, “Those familiar with Iran’s history would never address this nation with threats, as the Iranian people will never surrender. The Americans must understand that any military intervention will inflict irreversible damage.” This is not the first time Khamenei has sent strong warnings to the US or highlighted the tense ties between the two countries. Khamenei, who became Iran’s Supreme Leader in 1989 after Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s death, has spent most of his life defending the ideals of the Iranian revolution. Who is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei? Ali Khamenei was born in 1939 in Mashhad, a city in northern Iran. He was the second of eight children in a family. His father was a religious scholar. Following in his father’s footsteps, Khamenei studied religion in Qom between 1958 and 1964. He joined Ayatollah Khomeini’s movement against the Shah in 1962. Khamenei was jailed several times by the Shah’s government. He played an important role in the 1979 revolution and later became Iran’s president from 1981 to 1989. During this time, he led the country through the Iran-Iraq war. After Ayatollah Khomeini’s death, Khamenei became the Supreme Leader. In his early years, Khamenei was interested in both religious and intellectual ideas and often discussed these with thinkers from different backgrounds. When did Khamenei become Supreme Leader? Khamenei has been Iran’s top leader since 1989, after the death of the country’s first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Khomeini led Iran for ten years after overthrowing Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. After Khomeini’s death, Khamenei was selected as Supreme Leader by the Assembly of Experts. Before that, he was president of Iran for eight years.

Khamenei has been Iran’s top leader since 1989, after the death of the country’s first Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Khomeini led Iran for ten years after overthrowing Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.&nbsp;

Who is Ali Hosseini Khamenei, the supreme leader of Iran?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jun 19) that a change of Iran’s regime was not a goal of Israel’s attacks, but could be a result. This comes as the conflict between the foes enters its seventh day.&nbsp;“The matter of changing the regime or the fall of this regime is first and foremost a matter for the Iranian people. There is no substitute for this,” Netanyahu said in an interview aired on Kan public television. “And that’s why I didn’t present it as a goal. It could be a result, but it’s not a stated or formal goal that we have.”&nbsp;Netanyahu also said that Israel is capable of striking all Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, but “all help is welcome.” He further claimed that Israel had destroyed more than half of Iran’s missile launchers as the fighting continues on the seventh day.&nbsp;Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said that he will decide whether the United States will join Israel in its military operations against Iran in the next two weeks, the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;The Israeli prime minister said that US President Donald Trump “will do what is good for the United States and I will do what is good for the State of Israel and I must say that up to this moment everyone is doing their part.” He added that Israel is “ahead of schedule” in its military operation against Iran.&nbsp;“We are ahead of the schedule we set – both in terms of timing and results,” he said.&nbsp;On Wednesday, Trump said that only the US was capable of destroying or dismantling a nuclear facility at Fordow. “But that doesn’t mean I’m going to do it - at all,” he said.

Netanyahu claimed that Israel had destroyed more than half of Iran’s missile launchers as the fighting continues on the seventh day.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (Jun 19) that a change of Iran’s regime was not a goal of Israel’s attacks, but could be a result. This comes as the conflict between the foes enters its seventh day. “The matter of changing the regime or the fall of this regime is first and foremost a matter for the Iranian people. There is no substitute for this,” Netanyahu said in an interview aired on Kan public television. “And that’s why I didn’t present it as a goal. It could be a result, but it’s not a stated or formal goal that we have.” Netanyahu also said that Israel is capable of striking all Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, but “all help is welcome.” He further claimed that Israel had destroyed more than half of Iran’s missile launchers as the fighting continues on the seventh day. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said that he will decide whether the United States will join Israel in its military operations against Iran in the next two weeks, the White House said in a statement. The Israeli prime minister said that US President Donald Trump “will do what is good for the United States and I will do what is good for the State of Israel and I must say that up to this moment everyone is doing their part.” He added that Israel is “ahead of schedule” in its military operation against Iran. “We are ahead of the schedule we set – both in terms of timing and results,” he said. On Wednesday, Trump said that only the US was capable of destroying or dismantling a nuclear facility at Fordow. “But that doesn’t mean I’m going to do it - at all,” he said.

Netanyahu claimed that Israel had destroyed more than half of Iran’s missile launchers as the fighting continues on the seventh day.

‘Changing regime’ of Iran not the goal, ‘could be a result’: Netanyahu on Israel-Iran conflict

In the early part of 2003, American Army rumbled over the Kuwait border into Iraq in the name of liberation. The pretext: weapons of mass destruction, regime change, and freedom for the Iraqi people. Within a matter of weeks, Baghdad had fallen. Saddam Hussein had been toppled; his regime destroyed.&nbsp;But as history would soon reveal, over-throwing a government was the simple part. What ensued was decades of sectarian strife, insurgencies, foreign interventions, and a region thrown into disarray. Now, with Israel bombarding Iranian military and nuclear facilities and the threat of American intervention hanging over it, the world is asking an all-too-familiar and foreboding question: Is America about to revive 2003 in Tehran?&nbsp;The Iran-Israel war that has broken out has spread much beyond covert attacks and proxy tensions. In what Israel called as ‘Operation Rising Lion’, its fighter jets have initiated prolonged air bombardment operations above Tehran, Natanz, Esfahan, and other military centres.&nbsp;Civilian neighbourhoods have been hit; communication and energy grids are crumbling. As of June 19, more than 500 have been killed and thousand injured, according to a human rights group. Iran’s response, swift and muscular, included launching hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli territory—most intercepted, some not. The region is on fire.&nbsp;Amidst this spiral, the voice of US President Donald Trump—now again a leading figure in American foreign policy—is unmistakably belligerent. He has called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” declared that the Supreme Leader is “not hard to find,” and suggested that only full military intervention can bring this war to a decisive close. The language mirrors that of George W. Bush in 2003. The assumptions do too: that air superiority, regime decapitation, and a short, sharp campaign can reset the Middle East in America’s favour.&nbsp;But this is not Iraq. And that assumption may be the most dangerous one yet. The strategic thinking in 2003 was based on two key premises: that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction, and that a swift removal of Saddam’s regime would lead to democratic transformation.&nbsp;&nbsp;Both premises collapsed under the weight of reality. Iran, on the other hand, does have an advanced nuclear program—although how close it is to building a weapon remains hotly debated. What’s beyond dispute is that its nuclear infrastructure is more advanced, more dispersed, and significantly better protected than Iraq’s ever was. Facilities like Fordow and Natanz are buried deep underground, hardened against aerial attacks. Even Israel’s cutting-edge F-35s and intelligence assets cannot reach them without either massive US bunker-busting weaponry or ground troops.&nbsp;Therein lies the Iraq parallel—and the trap. Just as Iraq’s regime change required boots on the ground to truly take control of the state apparatus, any serious attempt to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and military command structure would likely require a similar invasion. Airstrikes, however sophisticated, have their limits. And Tehran knows this.&nbsp;But there are deeper differences that make a repeat of 2003 far more perilous in 2025. Iran is a large, militarily capable state with regional networks—from Hezbollah in Lebanon to militias in Iraq and Syria—that can ignite multiple fronts. Its ability to retaliate is proven. Within hours of the first Israeli strikes, it launched one of the largest missile salvos in modern military history. Though most were intercepted, the message was clear: this is not a regime that will fall quietly.&nbsp;Even more critical is the geopolitical context. In 2003, the United States enjoyed broad—if ultimately misguided—international support. Today, the US is deeply divided at home and increasingly distrusted abroad. More importantly, it's not a unipolar world anymore. Russia and China—both Iran's friends—are vying for global power and actively shaping a multipolar order that resists American dominance. Any US action against Tehran will have to contend not just with Iran, but with a broader geopolitical axis that sees American interventionism as a common threat.&nbsp;These questions have no clear answers—and that’s exactly the problem. Iran, for all its internal repression and foreign policy aggressions, retains a resilient state structure. Removing its leadership without triggering national fragmentation would be almost impossible.&nbsp;Already, the Israeli bombings have stirred both fear and fury within Iran. Anti-government protests have erupted, yes—but so have nationalistic calls for unity. The regime is bloodied but not broken. And unlike Iraq, it has prepared for this scenario for decades.&nbsp;There are also the legal and humanitarian ramifications to consider. Several civilians have died in the Tehran region alone since Israeli strikes began. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and infrastructure is buckling. An American-led invasion would only magnify the toll—likely exponentially. The US would find itself at the center of international condemnation, with little to show but further destabilisation.&nbsp;And yet, despite all this, the temptation to act militarily remains strong in Washington’s more hawkish circles. They argue that deterrence has failed, that Iran’s leadership is emboldened, and that without a decisive blow, the region will descend into permanent conflict. They point to the limitations of sanctions, the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal, and the erosion of American credibility. To them, war is not the worst option—it is the only option left.&nbsp;But this is a false binary. Between all-out invasion and passive diplomacy lies a spectrum of action. The United States could intensify its containment strategy—reinforce missile defense across the Gulf, expand cyber operations to disrupt Iranian command-and-control networks, empower internal dissent, and prepare for limited retaliatory strikes without committing to regime change.&nbsp;The lessons of 2003 are not just historical footnotes. They are warnings. They tell us that removing a regime without understanding the society underneath is folly. That military victory without political vision is ruinous. And that America’s power, though vast, cannot impose stability on nations from 30,000 feet in the sky. As Israeli jets continue to strike and Tehran vows vengeance, the drums of intervention beat louder. But the echoes from Baghdad still ring. The world would do well to listen.

The Iraq invasion playbook returns: But can it work against Iran?

In the early part of 2003, American Army rumbled over the Kuwait border into Iraq in the name of liberation. The pretext: weapons of mass destruction, regime change, and freedom for the Iraqi people. Within a matter of weeks, Baghdad had fallen. Saddam Hussein had been toppled; his regime destroyed. But as history would soon reveal, over-throwing a government was the simple part. What ensued was decades of sectarian strife, insurgencies, foreign interventions, and a region thrown into disarray. Now, with Israel bombarding Iranian military and nuclear facilities and the threat of American intervention hanging over it, the world is asking an all-too-familiar and foreboding question: Is America about to revive 2003 in Tehran? The Iran-Israel war that has broken out has spread much beyond covert attacks and proxy tensions. In what Israel called as ‘Operation Rising Lion’, its fighter jets have initiated prolonged air bombardment operations above Tehran, Natanz, Esfahan, and other military centres. Civilian neighbourhoods have been hit; communication and energy grids are crumbling. As of June 19, more than 500 have been killed and thousand injured, according to a human rights group. Iran’s response, swift and muscular, included launching hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli territory—most intercepted, some not. The region is on fire. Amidst this spiral, the voice of US President Donald Trump—now again a leading figure in American foreign policy—is unmistakably belligerent. He has called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” declared that the Supreme Leader is “not hard to find,” and suggested that only full military intervention can bring this war to a decisive close. The language mirrors that of George W. Bush in 2003. The assumptions do too: that air superiority, regime decapitation, and a short, sharp campaign can reset the Middle East in America’s favour. But this is not Iraq. And that assumption may be the most dangerous one yet. The strategic thinking in 2003 was based on two key premises: that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction, and that a swift removal of Saddam’s regime would lead to democratic transformation. Both premises collapsed under the weight of reality. Iran, on the other hand, does have an advanced nuclear program—although how close it is to building a weapon remains hotly debated. What’s beyond dispute is that its nuclear infrastructure is more advanced, more dispersed, and significantly better protected than Iraq’s ever was. Facilities like Fordow and Natanz are buried deep underground, hardened against aerial attacks. Even Israel’s cutting-edge F-35s and intelligence assets cannot reach them without either massive US bunker-busting weaponry or ground troops. Therein lies the Iraq parallel—and the trap. Just as Iraq’s regime change required boots on the ground to truly take control of the state apparatus, any serious attempt to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and military command structure would likely require a similar invasion. Airstrikes, however sophisticated, have their limits. And Tehran knows this. But there are deeper differences that make a repeat of 2003 far more perilous in 2025. Iran is a large, militarily capable state with regional networks—from Hezbollah in Lebanon to militias in Iraq and Syria—that can ignite multiple fronts. Its ability to retaliate is proven. Within hours of the first Israeli strikes, it launched one of the largest missile salvos in modern military history. Though most were intercepted, the message was clear: this is not a regime that will fall quietly. Even more critical is the geopolitical context. In 2003, the United States enjoyed broad—if ultimately misguided—international support. Today, the US is deeply divided at home and increasingly distrusted abroad. More importantly, it's not a unipolar world anymore. Russia and China—both Iran's friends—are vying for global power and actively shaping a multipolar order that resists American dominance. Any US action against Tehran will have to contend not just with Iran, but with a broader geopolitical axis that sees American interventionism as a common threat. These questions have no clear answers—and that’s exactly the problem. Iran, for all its internal repression and foreign policy aggressions, retains a resilient state structure. Removing its leadership without triggering national fragmentation would be almost impossible. Already, the Israeli bombings have stirred both fear and fury within Iran. Anti-government protests have erupted, yes—but so have nationalistic calls for unity. The regime is bloodied but not broken. And unlike Iraq, it has prepared for this scenario for decades. There are also the legal and humanitarian ramifications to consider. Several civilians have died in the Tehran region alone since Israeli strikes began. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and infrastructure is buckling. An American-led invasion would only magnify the toll—likely exponentially. The US would find itself at the center of international condemnation, with little to show but further destabilisation. And yet, despite all this, the temptation to act militarily remains strong in Washington’s more hawkish circles. They argue that deterrence has failed, that Iran’s leadership is emboldened, and that without a decisive blow, the region will descend into permanent conflict. They point to the limitations of sanctions, the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear deal, and the erosion of American credibility. To them, war is not the worst option—it is the only option left. But this is a false binary. Between all-out invasion and passive diplomacy lies a spectrum of action. The United States could intensify its containment strategy—reinforce missile defense across the Gulf, expand cyber operations to disrupt Iranian command-and-control networks, empower internal dissent, and prepare for limited retaliatory strikes without committing to regime change. The lessons of 2003 are not just historical footnotes. They are warnings. They tell us that removing a regime without understanding the society underneath is folly. That military victory without political vision is ruinous. And that America’s power, though vast, cannot impose stability on nations from 30,000 feet in the sky. As Israeli jets continue to strike and Tehran vows vengeance, the drums of intervention beat louder. But the echoes from Baghdad still ring. The world would do well to listen.

The Iran-Israel war that has broken out has spread much beyond covert attacks and proxy tensions

While India is a nuclear-armed state with its own strategic doctrine, the country’s preparedness for public safety in case of nuclear fallout remains a lesser-known subject. Here is a detailed look at what is known:

While India is a nuclear-armed state with its own strategic doctrine, the country’s preparedness for public safety in case of nuclear fallout remains a lesser-known subject. Here is a detailed look at what is known:

Does India have bunkers in case of a global nuclear war fallout? Here's what we know so far

At the heart of Iran’s resistance is Khamenei himself, yet very few are aware that the man commanding Iran’s defiance traces his roots back to India.

At the heart of Iran’s resistance is Khamenei himself, yet very few are aware that the man commanding Iran’s defiance traces his roots back to India.

Iran-Israel War: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s grandfather was linked to Uttar Pradesh? Here is what we know..

Amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran, military analysts often examine what tools the US could deploy if conflict escalates. While diplomacy remains the first option, here are 5 key weapons in the US arsenal that could be used in a strike scenario against Iran

Amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran, military analysts often examine what tools the US could deploy if conflict escalates. While diplomacy remains the first option, here are 5 key weapons in the US arsenal that could be used in a strike scenario against Iran

Iran-Israel War: 5 US weapons that Trump could use in a strike against Iran

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday (June 18),&nbsp; officially confirmed the launch of a Sejjil missile toward Israel, amidst rapidly escalating hostilities in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Iran’s semi-official news agency Tasnim reported that the IRGC under Operation True Promise III carried out the 12th wave of retaliatory strikes against Israel on Wednesday night.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;“The twelfth wave of Operation True Promise III began with the firing of ultra-heavy, long-range, two-stage Sejjil missiles,” the IRGC’s public relations office said in a statement.&nbsp;This marked a rare operational use of the Sejjil missile, an advanced, domestically developed ballistic missile. Here’s all you need to know about the missile.&nbsp;<h2>What is Sejjil missile?&nbsp;</h2>The Sejjil is an Iranian-made, medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) powered by solid fuel and designed with two stages, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>Length: 18 meters&nbsp;</li><li>Diameter: 1.25 meters&nbsp;</li><li>Launch Weight: 23,600 kg&nbsp;</li><li>Payload Capacity: 700 kg&nbsp;</li><li>Range: 2,000 km&nbsp;</li></ul>Development of the Sejjil likely began in the late 1990s, with the missile’s design rooted in Iran’s earlier work on the Zelzal short-range ballistic missile, the development of which is believed to have been aided by China.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>First test in 2008&nbsp;</h2>Iran first tested the Sejjil missile in 2008, with an initial flight covering 800 km. A second test in 2009 evaluated improvements in guidance systems. Four additional test launches occurred through 2012, with one reaching approximately 1,900 km into the Indian Ocean.&nbsp;<h2>Recent upgrades&nbsp;</h2>The Sejjil re-emerged during the Great Prophet 15 military exercises in January 2021. New footage from this drill indicated several system upgrades, such as:&nbsp;<ul><li>A ruggedised "strap-down" guidance system.&nbsp;</li><li>Jet vanes adapted from Ghadr missile technology&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Sejjil variants&nbsp;</h2>There are believed to be multiple versions of the Sejjil missile:&nbsp;<ul><li>Sejjil-2: First referenced during the 2009 test, featuring improved systems.&nbsp;</li><li>Sejjil-3 (unconfirmed): Rumoured to be under development, potentially with three stages, a range of 4,000 km, and a heavier launch weight of 38,000 kg.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Strategic implications&nbsp;</h2>The recent launch of the Sejjil by Iran, its first confirmed use signals a major escalation. It also brings attention to Iran’s evolving missile programme and its regional reach.&nbsp;

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday (June 18),  officially confirmed the launch of a Sejjil missile toward Israel, amidst rapidly escalating hostilities in the region.  

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday (June 18), officially confirmed the launch of a Sejjil missile toward Israel, amidst rapidly escalating hostilities in the region. Iran’s semi-official news agency Tasnim reported that the IRGC under Operation True Promise III carried out the 12th wave of retaliatory strikes against Israel on Wednesday night. “The twelfth wave of Operation True Promise III began with the firing of ultra-heavy, long-range, two-stage Sejjil missiles,” the IRGC’s public relations office said in a statement. This marked a rare operational use of the Sejjil missile, an advanced, domestically developed ballistic missile. Here’s all you need to know about the missile. What is Sejjil missile? The Sejjil is an Iranian-made, medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) powered by solid fuel and designed with two stages, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Length: 18 meters Diameter: 1.25 meters Launch Weight: 23,600 kg Payload Capacity: 700 kg Range: 2,000 km Development of the Sejjil likely began in the late 1990s, with the missile’s design rooted in Iran’s earlier work on the Zelzal short-range ballistic missile, the development of which is believed to have been aided by China. First test in 2008 Iran first tested the Sejjil missile in 2008, with an initial flight covering 800 km. A second test in 2009 evaluated improvements in guidance systems. Four additional test launches occurred through 2012, with one reaching approximately 1,900 km into the Indian Ocean. Recent upgrades The Sejjil re-emerged during the Great Prophet 15 military exercises in January 2021. New footage from this drill indicated several system upgrades, such as: A ruggedised "strap-down" guidance system. Jet vanes adapted from Ghadr missile technology Sejjil variants There are believed to be multiple versions of the Sejjil missile: Sejjil-2: First referenced during the 2009 test, featuring improved systems. Sejjil-3 (unconfirmed): Rumoured to be under development, potentially with three stages, a range of 4,000 km, and a heavier launch weight of 38,000 kg. Strategic implications The recent launch of the Sejjil by Iran, its first confirmed use signals a major escalation. It also brings attention to Iran’s evolving missile programme and its regional reach.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Wednesday (June 18),&nbsp; officially confirmed the launch of a Sejjil missile toward Israel, amidst rapidly escalating hostilities in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

What is Iran’s 'China assisted' Sejjil missile used for first time against Israel?

The E-4B Nightwatch, an American "doomsday plane", flew to Joint Base Andrews in Washington, DC, Tuesday night, according to flight tracking site FlightRadar. This comes as President Donald Trump weighs striking Iran's nuclear facilities deep underground. The move by the plane was likely made as a security measure amid the Iran-Israel war. E-4B Nightwatch is the militarised version of Boeing 747-800 and has been designed as a safe bunker to keep important American officials safe in case of a nuclear war. This included the American president, the Secretary of Defence and other national security officials who can keep the government running in the face of a catastrophe on Earth.&nbsp;Flight trackers noted that the plane made a long, winding route to the capital, leaving Bossier City, Louisiana, just before 6 pm on Tuesday. The plane landed in Maryland at 10 pm, flying near the coast and the border of Virginia and North Carolina, as per FlightRadar.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-committed-to-diplomacy-but-won-t-hesitate-to-act-in-self-defence-against-israel-israranl-i-war-1750302422390">Iran says committed to 'diplomacy' but won't hesitate to act in 'self-defence' against Israel</a>&nbsp;It issued an unusual callsign, ORDER01 instead of the usual ORDER6, according to flight data, sparking confusion about what was going on. Notably, the US has a fleet of four E-4Bs that make regular flights to maintain preparedness in case a situation crops up.&nbsp;<h2>About the E-4B Nightwatch "doomsday plane"</h2>&nbsp;It is called the "doomsday plane" because of the reason for its existence. The four aircraft are similar to what we see in apocalypse movies and TV shows, where the world is facing a crisis while the government is working to control it, sitting in a safe space. These planes are the safe space meant for US officials, kind of like a "Flying Pentagon."&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/idf-says-missiles-launched-from-iran-towards-israel-residents-asked-to-take-shelter-1750314347663/embed&nbsp;It can accommodate 112 people and is a control room for the government from where the President, Secretary of Defence, and the Chairs of the Joint Chiefs of Staff can monitor what's happening on the ground and maintain communication. They are one of a kind US Air Force aircraft, with a range of 11,265 km.&nbsp;These planes can fly for an entire week without the need to ever landing on the ground and can be refuelled mid-air. The E-4B Nightwatch can also whip out missiles at enemies, survive nuclear blasts, cyberattacks and electromagnetic effects. It can communicate with anyone in any part of the world because of the 67 satellite dishes and antennas in its ray dome.&nbsp;The planes have three decks, with 18 bunks, a briefing room, a teamwork area, a conference room, a command room, and a designated rest area.&nbsp;The situation in Iran and Israel is getting worse by the day, with several people having lost their lives. Trump has asked Iran for “unconditional surrender,” which Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, rejected.&nbsp;On Thursday, Iran launched air attacks on Israel. Several civilian areas, including a hospital, were hit by Iranian missile strikes. In Iran, the ISNA news agency reported that an area near the heavy water facility of the Khondab nuclear facility was targeted by Israel.

As the Iran Israel conflict escalated, an E 4B Nightwatch, an American doomsday plane, was seen in Washington. The aircraft is meant to keep the president safe in case of a nuclear war.

The E-4B Nightwatch, an American "doomsday plane", flew to Joint Base Andrews in Washington, DC, Tuesday night, according to flight tracking site FlightRadar. This comes as President Donald Trump weighs striking Iran's nuclear facilities deep underground. The move by the plane was likely made as a security measure amid the Iran-Israel war. E-4B Nightwatch is the militarised version of Boeing 747-800 and has been designed as a safe bunker to keep important American officials safe in case of a nuclear war. This included the American president, the Secretary of Defence and other national security officials who can keep the government running in the face of a catastrophe on Earth. Flight trackers noted that the plane made a long, winding route to the capital, leaving Bossier City, Louisiana, just before 6 pm on Tuesday. The plane landed in Maryland at 10 pm, flying near the coast and the border of Virginia and North Carolina, as per FlightRadar. Also Read: Iran says committed to 'diplomacy' but won't hesitate to act in 'self-defence' against Israel It issued an unusual callsign, ORDER01 instead of the usual ORDER6, according to flight data, sparking confusion about what was going on. Notably, the US has a fleet of four E-4Bs that make regular flights to maintain preparedness in case a situation crops up. About the E-4B Nightwatch "doomsday plane" It is called the "doomsday plane" because of the reason for its existence. The four aircraft are similar to what we see in apocalypse movies and TV shows, where the world is facing a crisis while the government is working to control it, sitting in a safe space. These planes are the safe space meant for US officials, kind of like a "Flying Pentagon." https://www.wionews.com/videos/idf-says-missiles-launched-from-iran-towards-israel-residents-asked-to-take-shelter-1750314347663/embed It can accommodate 112 people and is a control room for the government from where the President, Secretary of Defence, and the Chairs of the Joint Chiefs of Staff can monitor what's happening on the ground and maintain communication. They are one of a kind US Air Force aircraft, with a range of 11,265 km. These planes can fly for an entire week without the need to ever landing on the ground and can be refuelled mid-air. The E-4B Nightwatch can also whip out missiles at enemies, survive nuclear blasts, cyberattacks and electromagnetic effects. It can communicate with anyone in any part of the world because of the 67 satellite dishes and antennas in its ray dome. The planes have three decks, with 18 bunks, a briefing room, a teamwork area, a conference room, a command room, and a designated rest area. The situation in Iran and Israel is getting worse by the day, with several people having lost their lives. Trump has asked Iran for “unconditional surrender,” which Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, rejected. On Thursday, Iran launched air attacks on Israel. Several civilian areas, including a hospital, were hit by Iranian missile strikes. In Iran, the ISNA news agency reported that an area near the heavy water facility of the Khondab nuclear facility was targeted by Israel.

As the Iran-Israel conflict escalated, an E-4B Nightwatch, an American "doomsday plane", was seen in Washington. The aircraft is meant to keep the president safe in case of a nuclear war.

'Doomsday plane' E-4B, a nuclear holocaust bunker, can stay in air for a week at a stretch, refuel in the sky

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that he is not looking for a ceasefire in the Iran-Israel war but a total and complete victory, which he clarified means ‘no nuclear weapon’. Trump further said that he believes Iran was “a few weeks away” from having a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said, “We’re not looking for a ceasefire. We’re looking for a total and complete victory. Again, you know what the victory is: no nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;Replying to a question when asked what he would say to Americans who don’t want the US to get involved in another war overseas, Trump said, “I don’t want to get involved either, but I’ve been saying for 20 years, maybe longer, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I’ve been saying it for a long time, and I think they were a few weeks away from having one,” he said.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;I don&#39;t want to get involved either, but I&#39;ve been saying for 20 years — maybe longer — that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon ... They&#39;d use it. I believe they&#39;d use it.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ShE7UH179O">pic.twitter.com/ShE7UH179O</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1935418373539610891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon, too much devastation. And they’d use it,” he added. “You know, I believe they’d use it. Others won’t use it, but I believe they’d use it. So that’s it. It’s very simple.”&nbsp;The president then suggested that he hasn’t yet made a final decision on how to handle the conflict between Israel and Iran.“I have ideas as to what to do,” he said. “I like to make the final decision one second before it’s due, because things change, especially with war. Things change with war. It can go from one extreme to the other.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>: &quot;We&#39;re not looking for a ceasefire. We&#39;re looking for a total and complete victory. Again, you know what the victory is: no nuclear weapon.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/OGKbAp0tuF">pic.twitter.com/OGKbAp0tuF</a>&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1935419676974268708?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The president then told reporters that he has another meeting in the White House Situation Room in an hour.“We’re having a meeting in an hour. I have a meeting in the war room in a little while, Situation Room, as some people call it,” he told reporters in the Oval Office.&nbsp;Trump also claimed that Iran wants to come to the White House to discuss potential negotiations. “They want to meet, but it’s late to meet,” he reiterated.&nbsp;On being asked if the US would play a role in dismantling Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, Trump said, “We’re the only ones that have the capability to do it, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to do it—at all.”&nbsp;“For 40 years, they’ve been saying ‘death to America’. If you go back 15 years, I was saying we cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. I’m not looking to fight, but if it’s a choice between fighting and them having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do. And maybe we won’t have to fight.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a testimony earlier on Wednesday that the department is prepared to execute any military decisions that Trump makes as president, but declined to share details about plans under consideration when it comes to Iran.

On being asked if the US would play a role in dismantling Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, Trump said, “We’re the only ones that have the capability to do it, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to do it—at all.”

US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that he is not looking for a ceasefire in the Iran-Israel war but a total and complete victory, which he clarified means ‘no nuclear weapon’. Trump further said that he believes Iran was “a few weeks away” from having a nuclear weapon. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said, “We’re not looking for a ceasefire. We’re looking for a total and complete victory. Again, you know what the victory is: no nuclear weapon.” Replying to a question when asked what he would say to Americans who don’t want the US to get involved in another war overseas, Trump said, “I don’t want to get involved either, but I’ve been saying for 20 years, maybe longer, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I’ve been saying it for a long time, and I think they were a few weeks away from having one,” he said.

On being asked if the US would play a role in dismantling Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, Trump said, “We’re the only ones that have the capability to do it, but that doesn’t mean I’m going to do it—at all.”

‘Not looking for a ceasefire, but a total and complete victory,’ says Trump on Iran war

The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief, Rafael Mariano Grossi, revealed in an interview on Wednesday that the agency now cannot verify the whereabouts of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile since Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites.&nbsp;Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), also told Bloomberg in the interview that no other country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Tehran had warned stockpile could be moved’</h2>&nbsp;Grossi said Tehran had warned him that the stockpile could be moved in the event of an Israeli attack.&nbsp;Some 400 kg of uranium, enough for making 10 nuclear warheads, was previously stored under an IAEA seal in Isfahan.&nbsp;“At a time of war, all nuclear sites are closed,” Grossi said, adding further, “All our inspectors who are still in Iran… are not inspecting, no normal activity can take place.”&nbsp;Grossi then said, “No country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon… Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle. There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.”&nbsp;Before Israel’s preemptive strikes on the Islamic Republic, IAEA inspectors visited Iranian nuclear sites more than once a day, but Iran did not inform the IAEA of any “special measures” it planned to take to protect its uranium stockpile from being damaged in an attack, Grossi said.&nbsp;“We haven’t been informed of anything in detail. We don’t know what these protective additional measures to be,” he said.&nbsp;<h2>‘Iran aware its stockpile needs to be under constant IAEA supervision’</h2>&nbsp;“Iran is aware that this stockpile needs to be there under constant IAEA supervision,” Grossi said.&nbsp;Grossi said important facilities at Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility were “badly hit” during Israeli strikes, but there was no significant damage to the site at Fordow.&nbsp;Isfahan has been repeatedly hit, with a few buildings being affected, he added.&nbsp;The IAEA is relying on satellite imagery and has seen no sign of the uranium being moved—which would be a violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, said the Bloomberg report.“It’s important to return to the diplomatic table as soon as possible because what’s at stake is very serious,” Grossi said with concern.&nbsp;Iran’s highly enriched uranium could fit into 16 cylinders measuring 36 inches (91.4 centimetres) in height, according to the US government’s Office of Scientific and Technical Information.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle,” the director general said. “There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.”

On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.”

The UN nuclear watchdog’s chief, Rafael Mariano Grossi, revealed in an interview on Wednesday that the agency now cannot verify the whereabouts of Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpile since Israel launched strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), also told Bloomberg in the interview that no other country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon. On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.” ‘Tehran had warned stockpile could be moved’ Grossi said Tehran had warned him that the stockpile could be moved in the event of an Israeli attack. Some 400 kg of uranium, enough for making 10 nuclear warheads, was previously stored under an IAEA seal in Isfahan. “At a time of war, all nuclear sites are closed,” Grossi said, adding further, “All our inspectors who are still in Iran… are not inspecting, no normal activity can take place.” Grossi then said, “No country in the world is enriching uranium at this level of 60%—which is technically almost equivalent of 90%, which is needed to have a nuclear weapon… Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle. There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.” Before Israel’s preemptive strikes on the Islamic Republic, IAEA inspectors visited Iranian nuclear sites more than once a day, but Iran did not inform the IAEA of any “special measures” it planned to take to protect its uranium stockpile from being damaged in an attack, Grossi said. “We haven’t been informed of anything in detail. We don’t know what these protective additional measures to be,” he said. ‘Iran aware its stockpile needs to be under constant IAEA supervision’ “Iran is aware that this stockpile needs to be there under constant IAEA supervision,” Grossi said. Grossi said important facilities at Iran’s Natanz enrichment facility were “badly hit” during Israeli strikes, but there was no significant damage to the site at Fordow. Isfahan has been repeatedly hit, with a few buildings being affected, he added. The IAEA is relying on satellite imagery and has seen no sign of the uranium being moved—which would be a violation of the Non-Proliferation Treaty, said the Bloomberg report. “It’s important to return to the diplomatic table as soon as possible because what’s at stake is very serious,” Grossi said with concern. Iran’s highly enriched uranium could fit into 16 cylinders measuring 36 inches (91.4 centimetres) in height, according to the US government’s Office of Scientific and Technical Information. “Many high officials have said Iran has all the pieces of the puzzle,” the director general said. “There has been a lot of ambiguity, and this is never good.”

On being asked whether Iran’s supply of 60% enriched uranium remains safely located at the underground Isfahan facility, which Israel has repeatedly struck since it began its campaign on Friday, Grossi said, “To say safely, I’m not so sure.”

‘Not aware of Iran’s near-weapons-grade uranium stockpile location now’: IAEA chief

The Egyptian Ambassador to India Kamel Galal has said that his country "will give all assistance'" to India over any evacuation of Indians from Israel from the Eilat-Taba border crossing.&nbsp;The border crossing also known as the Menachem Begin Crossing is a land border crossing between Eilat, Israel, and Taba, Egypt and is one of the way to exit Israel. Another way is by Allenby Bridge/King Hussein Bridge to Jordan. In both the cases Indians have to&nbsp;apply for eVisas for the respective countries. &nbsp;Speaking at an ORF event in Delhi, the Ambassador Kamel Galal pointed out that the Indian&nbsp;embassy in Cairo "must be in touch" with Egyptian Foreign ministry over any plans. Approximately 25000-30000 Indian nationals are believed to be in Israel, and just last week the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv issued an advisory asking Indians to remain "vigilant" and follow local security protocols as the West Asia conflict widens. On Wednesday, the Indian embassy issued a new advisory asking Indians to register with the embassy, and suggesting them to avail the land border crossing option, in case they plan to leave the country. &nbsp;Meanwhile as India, Egypt firm up ties, the Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty is all set to visit Delhi next week. Terming the ties between the 2 countries historic, Egypt Ambassador said that among the many areas of focus defence is a "low hanging fruit". He said, "joint production, this is the opportunity, our defence attaches plan to discuss with Indian counterparts, Indian companies, that we can have joint programs of joint production". &nbsp;In September 2022, during Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Cairo, India and Egypt signed an MoU to enhance defence cooperation that focuses on joint military exercises, training, co-production, and equipment maintenance. Indian and Egyptian special forces conducted their first joint drill, Exercise Cyclone, in Rajasthan in January 2023, aimed at counter-terrorism operations. Indian Navy’s INS Kochi participated in a Maritime Partnership Exercise with Egyptian Navy ships in June 2022. &nbsp;Last few years have seen a number of high level visits. PM Modi visited the country in June 2023, the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1997. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi was the Chief Guest at India’s 2023 Republic Day. It was during Sisi's 2023 visit that bilateral relationship was elevated to a “Strategic Partnership,” focusing on political, defense, economic, scientific, and cultural cooperation. &nbsp;Both sides are focusing on upping the trade ties. Ambassador Kamel Galal pointed out that his country has offered India a special zone in the Suez&nbsp;Economic Zone. Over 50 Indian companies have invested approximately US$3.15–3.25 billion in Egypt across sectors like chemicals, energy, IT, Pharma. In FY 2021-22, bilateral trade reached a record US$7.26 billion, a 75% increase from US$4.15 billion in FY 2020-21. &nbsp;Egypt also condemned the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22, 2025, Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs issued a statement expressing heartfelt condolences to the Indian government over the terror attack.&nbsp;

The Egyptian Ambassador to India Kamel Galal has said that his country "will give all assistance'" to India over any evacuation of Indians from Israel from the Eilat-Taba border crossing

The Egyptian Ambassador to India Kamel Galal has said that his country "will give all assistance'" to India over any evacuation of Indians from Israel from the Eilat-Taba border crossing. The border crossing also known as the Menachem Begin Crossing is a land border crossing between Eilat, Israel, and Taba, Egypt and is one of the way to exit Israel. Another way is by Allenby Bridge/King Hussein Bridge to Jordan. In both the cases Indians have to apply for eVisas for the respective countries. Speaking at an ORF event in Delhi, the Ambassador Kamel Galal pointed out that the Indian embassy in Cairo "must be in touch" with Egyptian Foreign ministry over any plans. Approximately 25000-30000 Indian nationals are believed to be in Israel, and just last week the Indian embassy in Tel Aviv issued an advisory asking Indians to remain "vigilant" and follow local security protocols as the West Asia conflict widens. On Wednesday, the Indian embassy issued a new advisory asking Indians to register with the embassy, and suggesting them to avail the land border crossing option, in case they plan to leave the country. Meanwhile as India, Egypt firm up ties, the Egyptian foreign minister Badr Abdelatty is all set to visit Delhi next week. Terming the ties between the 2 countries historic, Egypt Ambassador said that among the many areas of focus defence is a "low hanging fruit". He said, "joint production, this is the opportunity, our defence attaches plan to discuss with Indian counterparts, Indian companies, that we can have joint programs of joint production". In September 2022, during Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Cairo, India and Egypt signed an MoU to enhance defence cooperation that focuses on joint military exercises, training, co-production, and equipment maintenance. Indian and Egyptian special forces conducted their first joint drill, Exercise Cyclone, in Rajasthan in January 2023, aimed at counter-terrorism operations. Indian Navy’s INS Kochi participated in a Maritime Partnership Exercise with Egyptian Navy ships in June 2022. Last few years have seen a number of high level visits. PM Modi visited the country in June 2023, the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister since 1997. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi was the Chief Guest at India’s 2023 Republic Day. It was during Sisi's 2023 visit that bilateral relationship was elevated to a “Strategic Partnership,” focusing on political, defense, economic, scientific, and cultural cooperation. Both sides are focusing on upping the trade ties. Ambassador Kamel Galal pointed out that his country has offered India a special zone in the Suez Economic Zone. Over 50 Indian companies have invested approximately US$3.15–3.25 billion in Egypt across sectors like chemicals, energy, IT, Pharma. In FY 2021-22, bilateral trade reached a record US$7.26 billion, a 75% increase from US$4.15 billion in FY 2020-21. Egypt also condemned the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22, 2025, Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs issued a statement expressing heartfelt condolences to the Indian government over the terror attack.

The Egyptian Ambassador to India Kamel Galal has said that his country "will give all assistance'" to India over any evacuation of Indians from Israel from the Eilat-Taba border crossing

Egypt to give assistance to India over evacuation from Israel amid heightened tensions with Iran

Hours after Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a direct threat to America and said that Iran won't surrender, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the Islamic Republic wants to “negotiate.” Speaking to reporters at new flag pole installation event in the White House, Trump said that patience has already run out with Iran. Calling Iran “schoolyard bullies', Trump said that it is very late to talk and Iran should have approached the US within 60 days period that he had given. The US president did not answer clearly if America will strike Iran, saying that ”he may or may not, nobody knows."&nbsp;Trump's statements comes hours after Khamenei in a televised address issued a grave warning to the US, telling the country it would suffer “irreparable damage” if it engages in military action against Iran amid its conflict with Israel.&nbsp;Calling out Trump directly, Khamenei added, “The US President threatens us. With his absurd rhetoric, he demands that the Iranian people surrender to him. They should make threats against those who are afraid of being threatened. The Iranian nation isn’t frightened by such threats.”<h2>Iran-US war imminent?</h2>&nbsp;Slamming Iran, Trump said, "Iran is in a lot of trouble. And now they want to negotiate. I said, why didn’t you negotiate with me before all this war, death, and destruction? Why didn’t you negotiate two weeks ago? You could have done fine. You would still have a country." On questions if US would join Israel and strike Iran, he added, "I may do it, I may not do it—nobody knows what I’m going to do."&nbsp;&nbsp;When asked about ‘unconditional surrender’ post, Trump explained, "Very simple -- unconditional surrender. That means I've had it. I've had it. I give up, no more. Then we go blow up all the nuclear stuff that's all over the place there. They had bad intentions. You know, for 40 years they've been saying, death to America, death to Israel, death to anybody else that they didn't like. They were bullies. They were schoolyard bullies, and now they're not bullies anymore."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">&quot;Too late now&quot;: Trump says Iran has reached out, but &#39;no decision on US intervention yet&#39; . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IranIsraelWar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IranIsraelWar</a> <a href="https://t.co/2kBUyLYBJD">pic.twitter.com/2kBUyLYBJD</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1935338709525909809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Speaking to reporters, Trump said that patience has already run out with Iran and that the Iranian regime has reached out to negotiate amid intensifying war with Israel

Hours after Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a direct threat to America and said that Iran won't surrender, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the Islamic Republic wants to “negotiate.” Speaking to reporters at new flag pole installation event in the White House, Trump said that patience has already run out with Iran. Calling Iran “schoolyard bullies', Trump said that it is very late to talk and Iran should have approached the US within 60 days period that he had given. The US president did not answer clearly if America will strike Iran, saying that ”he may or may not, nobody knows." Trump's statements comes hours after Khamenei in a televised address issued a grave warning to the US, telling the country it would suffer “irreparable damage” if it engages in military action against Iran amid its conflict with Israel. Calling out Trump directly, Khamenei added, “The US President threatens us. With his absurd rhetoric, he demands that the Iranian people surrender to him. They should make threats against those who are afraid of being threatened. The Iranian nation isn’t frightened by such threats.” Iran-US war imminent? Slamming Iran, Trump said, "Iran is in a lot of trouble. And now they want to negotiate. I said, why didn’t you negotiate with me before all this war, death, and destruction? Why didn’t you negotiate two weeks ago? You could have done fine. You would still have a country." On questions if US would join Israel and strike Iran, he added, "I may do it, I may not do it—nobody knows what I’m going to do." When asked about ‘unconditional surrender’ post, Trump explained, "Very simple -- unconditional surrender. That means I've had it. I've had it. I give up, no more. Then we go blow up all the nuclear stuff that's all over the place there. They had bad intentions. You know, for 40 years they've been saying, death to America, death to Israel, death to anybody else that they didn't like. They were bullies. They were schoolyard bullies, and now they're not bullies anymore."

Speaking to reporters, Trump said that patience has already run out with Iran and that the Iranian regime has reached out to negotiate amid intensifying war with Israel

Iran-US war imminent? Trump says 'I GIVE UP' after claiming Tehran 'wants to negotiate' amid intensifying conflict with Israel

The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has presented a complex challenge before Pakistan, which is treading with extreme caution to safeguard its own security, stability, and longstanding relations with key ally nations.&nbsp;The start of a full-fledged war across the border (Pakistan shares a 905 km-long border with Iran) has created a big dilemma for Islamabad, as on one hand, it has to speak for Iran being a Muslim nation, but on the other, it cannot afford to upset the United States, which has been its great benefactor for decades.&nbsp;Expectedly, when Israel launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and killed many Iranian generals and nuclear scientists, Pakistan was quick to condemn the Israeli action and stand in support of Iran, with which it had exchanged missile strikes in January 2024.&nbsp;Islamabad called the Israeli strikes “blatant provocations” and violations of Iran’s territorial sovereignty.As the conflict is intensifying, Islamabad is worried about its complex ties with Tehran and the prospect of the Israeli military’s aerial influence extending close to its border.&nbsp;<h2>Pak-Iran ties marked by complexities</h2> Pakistan and Iran accuse each other of harbouring armed groups responsible for cross-border attacks on their territories, and, in January 2024, Tehran launched missiles into Pakistan’s Balochistan province, claiming to target the separatist group Jaish al-Adl.Pakistan retaliated within 24 hours, striking what it said were hideouts of Baloch separatists inside Iranian territory.The brief escalation died down quickly, but Iran avoided taking the side of Pakistan during its military conflict with India last month.&nbsp;Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has offered to help broker an end to the military hostilities between Iran and Israel.&nbsp;However, Pakistan would not risk getting itself too involved when it is eager to rebuild bridges with the US, Israel’s closest ally.&nbsp;<h2>Balochistan worries perturb Islamabad</h2> Pakistan’s biggest concern is the likely fallout of the Iran-Israel conflict in its resource-rich, restive province of Balochistan, which also hosts the Gwadar port, central to the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), linking western China to the Arabian Sea.Pakistan is worried that if the war escalates further, members of armed secessionist groups, Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLA), who live in Iran’s border areas, might sneak into Pakistan through the porous border.&nbsp;Another prospect roiling Islamabad is the fear of the influx of refugees from Iran with which it shared a long border.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Fears of growing Israeli aerial prowess in close vicinity&nbsp;</h2> Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s claim of the Israeli Air Force having control over Tehran’s skies has bothered Islamabad as much as it did Iran.&nbsp;Pakistan will never want Israeli influence over the Iranian airspace to grow and creep towards its border, as it does not recognise Israel and considers it to be a sworn enemy.

The start of a full-fledged war across the border (Pakistan shares a 905 km-long border with Iran) has created a big dilemma for Islamabad, as on one hand, it has to speak for Iran being a Muslim nation, but on the other, it cannot afford to upset the US, its biggest benefactor for decades.

The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has presented a complex challenge before Pakistan, which is treading with extreme caution to safeguard its own security, stability, and longstanding relations with key ally nations. The start of a full-fledged war across the border (Pakistan shares a 905 km-long border with Iran) has created a big dilemma for Islamabad, as on one hand, it has to speak for Iran being a Muslim nation, but on the other, it cannot afford to upset the United States, which has been its great benefactor for decades. Expectedly, when Israel launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities and killed many Iranian generals and nuclear scientists, Pakistan was quick to condemn the Israeli action and stand in support of Iran, with which it had exchanged missile strikes in January 2024. Islamabad called the Israeli strikes “blatant provocations” and violations of Iran’s territorial sovereignty. As the conflict is intensifying, Islamabad is worried about its complex ties with Tehran and the prospect of the Israeli military’s aerial influence extending close to its border. Pak-Iran ties marked by complexities Pakistan and Iran accuse each other of harbouring armed groups responsible for cross-border attacks on their territories, and, in January 2024, Tehran launched missiles into Pakistan’s Balochistan province, claiming to target the separatist group Jaish al-Adl. Pakistan retaliated within 24 hours, striking what it said were hideouts of Baloch separatists inside Iranian territory. The brief escalation died down quickly, but Iran avoided taking the side of Pakistan during its military conflict with India last month. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has offered to help broker an end to the military hostilities between Iran and Israel. However, Pakistan would not risk getting itself too involved when it is eager to rebuild bridges with the US, Israel’s closest ally. Balochistan worries perturb Islamabad Pakistan’s biggest concern is the likely fallout of the Iran-Israel conflict in its resource-rich, restive province of Balochistan, which also hosts the Gwadar port, central to the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), linking western China to the Arabian Sea. Pakistan is worried that if the war escalates further, members of armed secessionist groups, Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLA), who live in Iran’s border areas, might sneak into Pakistan through the porous border. Another prospect roiling Islamabad is the fear of the influx of refugees from Iran with which it shared a long border. Fears of growing Israeli aerial prowess in close vicinity Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s claim of the Israeli Air Force having control over Tehran’s skies has bothered Islamabad as much as it did Iran. Pakistan will never want Israeli influence over the Iranian airspace to grow and creep towards its border, as it does not recognise Israel and considers it to be a sworn enemy.

The start of a full-fledged war across the border (Pakistan shares a 905 km-long border with Iran) has created a big dilemma for Islamabad, as on one hand, it has to speak for Iran being a Muslim nation, but on the other, it cannot afford to upset the US, its biggest benefactor for decades.

Iran-Israel war plunges Pakistan into a quagmire, poses a diplomatic challenge

As the conflict between Iran and Israel intensifies, Iran issued a threat to United States and said that if it becomes directly involved in Israel's military campaign, it will face the same response like Israel. The Iranian ambassador to the United Nations, Ali Bahreini, in Geneva said on Wednesday (Jun18) spoke to reporters and repeated Islamic nation's claims that it sees the US as "complicit in what Israel is doing." His comments came minutes before the televised address of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;On nuclear programme, Bahreini said that Iran will not give up on nuclear facilities, as it sees it as its “right.” He reiterated that Iran is not using nuclear energy for any military purposes. He also said that Iranian regime has no hopes from any international organization or any other country, and they will act independently.<h2>What more the Iranian ambassador said?</h2><ol><li>“We are ready to give appropriate response, we will follow the action of US and at any time any point if we come to the conclusion that US is directly involved in attacks against Iran, we will start responding to US,” he said.</li><li>"We will not show any reluctance in defending our people, security and land - we will respond seriously and strongly, without restraint," Ali Bahreini said.</li></ol>3. “For us this is our right to use nuclear for peaceful purposes. There are two things: Iran is not going to give up to use nuclear energy for peaceful purpose and Iran is not using nuclear programme for any military purpose,” he added. &nbsp;4. Bahreini slammed Trump and said that his remarks were "completely unwarranted and very hostile. We cannot ignore them. We are vigilant about what Trump is saying. We will put it in our calculations and assessments." 5. “IAEA even stated that there is no evidence that Iran is following any kind of military activity, we have abided by all international norms. There is no evidence that there is violation by Iran.”&nbsp;6. “Israel is attacking humanity, Iran is fighting not only for Iranians but for the rights of everyone,” he said.&nbsp;

The Iranian ambassador to the United Nations, Ali Bahreini said that US will see the same response as Israel if it gets directly involved in the conflict

As the conflict between Iran and Israel intensifies, Iran issued a threat to United States and said that if it becomes directly involved in Israel's military campaign, it will face the same response like Israel. The Iranian ambassador to the United Nations, Ali Bahreini, in Geneva said on Wednesday (Jun18) spoke to reporters and repeated Islamic nation's claims that it sees the US as "complicit in what Israel is doing." His comments came minutes before the televised address of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. On nuclear programme, Bahreini said that Iran will not give up on nuclear facilities, as it sees it as its “right.” He reiterated that Iran is not using nuclear energy for any military purposes. He also said that Iranian regime has no hopes from any international organization or any other country, and they will act independently. What more the Iranian ambassador said? “We are ready to give appropriate response, we will follow the action of US and at any time any point if we come to the conclusion that US is directly involved in attacks against Iran, we will start responding to US,” he said. "We will not show any reluctance in defending our people, security and land - we will respond seriously and strongly, without restraint," Ali Bahreini said. 3. “For us this is our right to use nuclear for peaceful purposes. There are two things: Iran is not going to give up to use nuclear energy for peaceful purpose and Iran is not using nuclear programme for any military purpose,” he added. 4. Bahreini slammed Trump and said that his remarks were "completely unwarranted and very hostile. We cannot ignore them. We are vigilant about what Trump is saying. We will put it in our calculations and assessments." 5. “IAEA even stated that there is no evidence that Iran is following any kind of military activity, we have abided by all international norms. There is no evidence that there is violation by Iran.” 6. “Israel is attacking humanity, Iran is fighting not only for Iranians but for the rights of everyone,” he said.

The Iranian ambassador to the United Nations, Ali Bahreini said that US will see the same response as Israel if it gets directly involved in the conflict

'US will get same response': Iran's BIG threat if America ‘gets directly involved’ with Israel, says NO to giving up nuclear energy

Israel's ongoing war on Iran had a curious element: Many of the attacks were actually launched from inside Iranian territory. And the intelligence agency Mossad was able to pinpoint the location of several leaders, including military chiefs whom the Israeli Defence Forces killed. This is only possible with insider information, and a network of spies in Iran and abroad. Iranian dissidents and exiles allegedly provide much of the information. There is a vast network of Iranians opposed to the Islamic Republic regime. Many of them live within Iran. Others are part of the vast Iranian diaspora population, estimated to number up to 8 million, and living in many Western countries, including the US and Europe. Many of the Iranian diaspora members are exiles who fled the country in the wake of the Islamic Revolution of 1979 that led to the fall of the monarchy led by the Pahlavi dynasty's Shahs.&nbsp; Some of them formed groups abroad that allegedly orchestrated attacks and assassinations in Iran, and helped expose the Iranian secret nuclear weapons programme.&nbsp; While much of their activities are under-reported and unconfirmed, below are some of the most important dissident and exile groups and internal resistance movements that are possibly helping enemies of Iran. &nbsp;<h2>People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK)</h2>MEK, founded in 1965, is a Marxist-Islamist group. It was initially a part of the Islamic Revolution of 1979, but fell out with the regime. Its leadership went into exile in different parts of the world, including in Iraq and Europe, particularly Albania. It is believed that during the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s, MEK collaborated with Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein.&nbsp; MEK's structure is allegedly formed like a cult. &nbsp;It has been linked in the past to Western and Israeli intelligence agencies. The group was among those who shared information on the nuclear facilities of Iran in Natanz and Arak to the West. Over the years, there have been accusations that the MEK is receiving Israeli backing for assassinations of Iranian nuclear scientists between 2010 and 2012. One of the MEK operatives, Majid Jamali Fashi, had reportedly confessed to having been trained by Mossad for one such killing. The US has, however, officially denied any MEK involvement.&nbsp; Many of the MEK leaders have openly met and received backing from US officials in the past, including diplomats Mike Pompeo and John Bolton. The MEK is thought to be sharing intelligence with Iran's enemies. In 2022, Iran's parallel army, the IRGC, claimed that it had arrested teams affiliated with MEK who were planning attacks in Khuzestan, Fars and Isfahan. &nbsp;<h2>National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI)</h2>NCRI is the public face and political front of MEK. Currently led by Maryam Rajavi, NCRI advocates for a secular and democratic Iran. NCRI has a so-called ‘government-in-exile’, and engages in lobbying efforts in the West.&nbsp; NCRI also provided intelligence on Iran’s nuclear programme to the West, helping expose it to the world.&nbsp; Though NCRI is not directly implicated in assassinations inside Iran, it is thought to have provided intelligence to facilitate the killings. The NCRI's main role is to provide information and advocacy for a new Iran among Western institutions and governments.&nbsp; While there have been speculations, it is not clearly established if NCRI has any formal connection to Mossad. But its reports in the 2000s were crucial to Western diplomatic efforts and sanctions against Iran.<h2>The Kingdom Assembly of Iran (Tondar)</h2>Tondar, based in the US, is a monarchist group that seeks the restoration of the Pahlavi dynasty. &nbsp;It also advocates armed resistance against the current regime.&nbsp; While it's not as prominent as the MEK, Iran in the past accused this group of disruptive activities, including the 2008 Shiraz mosque bombing that killed 14 people.&nbsp; Its leader, Jamshid Sharmahd, was executed by Iran in 2024 for what it called ‘US-sponsored terrorism.’&nbsp; Despite Iran's allegations, Tondar’s connection to foreign intelligence agencies like Mossad is not clearly proven.<h2>National Council of Iran and Reza Pahlavi</h2>Led by Reza Pahlavi, Crown Prince of Iran, the exiled son of the last Shah, NCI actively promotes a constitutional monarchy, using peaceful advocacy and public diplomacy.&nbsp;Reza Pahlavi, who lives mostly in the US, also formed a government-in-exile, but lacks an organised movement.&nbsp; However, the crown prince is visible and active among monarchist supporters. He has visited Israel in recent years and has links with Western policymakers. His influence is symbolic and political, not operational, and he has not been openly connected to violence or intelligence operations targeting Iran.<h2>Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahwaz (ASMLA)</h2> Based in Khuzestan, the ASMLA is an Arab separatist group which seeks autonomy. &nbsp;The 2018 Ahvaz military parade attack that killed 25 people was blamed on ASMLA by Iran, which claimed that it got the backing of Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the West.&nbsp; It is not clear if these allegations are true, and no public admission of any links with Mossad exists. &nbsp;It is believed that ASMLA acts on its own, separate from the intelligence networks of Israel or the West.&nbsp;<h2>Many groups want regime change in Iran, and are helping Israel and West</h2>These are only some of the most prominent dissident and exile groups. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals disgruntled with the Iranian regime who are possibly helping its enemies, particularly Israel. &nbsp;While only the MEK is credibly tied to assassinations, it is clear that Mossad has benefited from cooperation by other groups.&nbsp; The 2018 nuclear archive theft and the 2020 killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh were carried out by Israel, allegedly with help from internal networks in Iran.

There is a vast network of Iranians opposed to the Islamic Republic regime. Many of them live within Iran. Others are part of the vast Iranian diaspora population, estimated to number up to 8 million

Israel's ongoing war on Iran had a curious element: Many of the attacks were actually launched from inside Iranian territory. And the intelligence agency Mossad was able to pinpoint the location of several leaders, including military chiefs whom the Israeli Defence Forces killed. This is only possible with insider information, and a network of spies in Iran and abroad. Iranian dissidents and exiles allegedly provide much of the information. There is a vast network of Iranians opposed to the Islamic Republic regime. Many of them live within Iran. Others are part of the vast Iranian diaspora population, estimated to number up to 8 million, and living in many Western countries, including the US and Europe. Many of the Iranian diaspora members are exiles who fled the country in the wake of the Islamic Revolution of 1979 that led to the fall of the monarchy led by the Pahlavi dynasty's Shahs. Some of them formed groups abroad that allegedly orchestrated attacks and assassinations in Iran, and helped expose the Iranian secret nuclear weapons programme. While much of their activities are under-reported and unconfirmed, below are some of the most important dissident and exile groups and internal resistance movements that are possibly helping enemies of Iran. People’s Mojahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK) MEK, founded in 1965, is a Marxist-Islamist group. It was initially a part of the Islamic Revolution of 1979, but fell out with the regime. Its leadership went into exile in different parts of the world, including in Iraq and Europe, particularly Albania. It is believed that during the Iran-Iraq war of the 1980s, MEK collaborated with Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. MEK's structure is allegedly formed like a cult. It has been linked in the past to Western and Israeli intelligence agencies. The group was among those who shared information on the nuclear facilities of Iran in Natanz and Arak to the West. Over the years, there have been accusations that the MEK is receiving Israeli backing for assassinations of Iranian nuclear scientists between 2010 and 2012. One of the MEK operatives, Majid Jamali Fashi, had reportedly confessed to having been trained by Mossad for one such killing. The US has, however, officially denied any MEK involvement. Many of the MEK leaders have openly met and received backing from US officials in the past, including diplomats Mike Pompeo and John Bolton. The MEK is thought to be sharing intelligence with Iran's enemies. In 2022, Iran's parallel army, the IRGC, claimed that it had arrested teams affiliated with MEK who were planning attacks in Khuzestan, Fars and Isfahan. National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) NCRI is the public face and political front of MEK. Currently led by Maryam Rajavi, NCRI advocates for a secular and democratic Iran. NCRI has a so-called ‘government-in-exile’, and engages in lobbying efforts in the West. NCRI also provided intelligence on Iran’s nuclear programme to the West, helping expose it to the world. Though NCRI is not directly implicated in assassinations inside Iran, it is thought to have provided intelligence to facilitate the killings. The NCRI's main role is to provide information and advocacy for a new Iran among Western institutions and governments. While there have been speculations, it is not clearly established if NCRI has any formal connection to Mossad. But its reports in the 2000s were crucial to Western diplomatic efforts and sanctions against Iran. The Kingdom Assembly of Iran (Tondar) Tondar, based in the US, is a monarchist group that seeks the restoration of the Pahlavi dynasty. It also advocates armed resistance against the current regime. While it's not as prominent as the MEK, Iran in the past accused this group of disruptive activities, including the 2008 Shiraz mosque bombing that killed 14 people. Its leader, Jamshid Sharmahd, was executed by Iran in 2024 for what it called ‘US-sponsored terrorism.’ Despite Iran's allegations, Tondar’s connection to foreign intelligence agencies like Mossad is not clearly proven. National Council of Iran and Reza Pahlavi Led by Reza Pahlavi, Crown Prince of Iran, the exiled son of the last Shah, NCI actively promotes a constitutional monarchy, using peaceful advocacy and public diplomacy. Reza Pahlavi, who lives mostly in the US, also formed a government-in-exile, but lacks an organised movement. However, the crown prince is visible and active among monarchist supporters. He has visited Israel in recent years and has links with Western policymakers. His influence is symbolic and political, not operational, and he has not been openly connected to violence or intelligence operations targeting Iran. Arab Struggle Movement for the Liberation of Ahwaz (ASMLA) Based in Khuzestan, the ASMLA is an Arab separatist group which seeks autonomy. The 2018 Ahvaz military parade attack that killed 25 people was blamed on ASMLA by Iran, which claimed that it got the backing of Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the West. It is not clear if these allegations are true, and no public admission of any links with Mossad exists. It is believed that ASMLA acts on its own, separate from the intelligence networks of Israel or the West. Many groups want regime change in Iran, and are helping Israel and West These are only some of the most prominent dissident and exile groups. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals disgruntled with the Iranian regime who are possibly helping its enemies, particularly Israel. While only the MEK is credibly tied to assassinations, it is clear that Mossad has benefited from cooperation by other groups. The 2018 nuclear archive theft and the 2020 killing of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh were carried out by Israel, allegedly with help from internal networks in Iran.

Mossad was able to pinpoint the location of several leaders, including military chiefs whom the Israeli Defence Forces killed. This is only possible with insider information

Who is helping Iran's enemies? Dissidents, exiles, monarchists, Marxists and resistance groups within opposed to the regime, listed

The UN’s atomic watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said on Tuesday (June 17) it now believes that the Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s Natanz enrichment site had “direct impacts” on the facility’s underground centrifuge halls.This is the first time the IAEA has assessed damage from the strikes in the underground parts of Natanz, which is the main enrichment facility of Iran’s nuclear programme.&nbsp;“Based on continued analysis of high-resolution satellite imagery collected after Friday’s attacks, the IAEA has identified additional elements that indicate direct impacts on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz,” the International Atomic Energy Agency wrote on X.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Iran: Based on continued analysis of high resolution satellite imagery collected after Friday’s attacks, the IAEA has identified additional elements that indicate direct impacts on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz. No change to report at Esfahan and Fordow.&mdash; IAEA - International Atomic Energy Agency ⚛️ (@iaeaorg) <a href="https://twitter.com/iaeaorg/status/1934945205574385964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, the IAEA confirmed that one of the above-ground buildings at Natanz—the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant—was destroyed.&nbsp;The attack also damaged the electricity infrastructure, including the main power supply, emergency backup systems, and a substation.&nbsp;<h2>Agency warns of contamination inside the facility</h2>&nbsp;Regarding radiation levels outside Natanz, the UN’s atomic watchdog said they remain unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no radiological impact on the population or the environment from the incident. However, it noted that there is both radiological and chemical contamination inside the facility.The IAEA warned that uranium compounds, like uranium hexafluoride, may have been dispersed and could pose health risks if inhaled or ingested.&nbsp;“The risk can be effectively managed with appropriate protective measures, such as using respiratory protection devices while inside the affected facilities,” it added.&nbsp;The watchdog further said that other major Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, Bushehr, Khondab, and the Tehran Research Reactor, have not been damaged. However, four buildings were hit at the Esfahan nuclear site, including a uranium conversion plant and a fuel manufacturing facility.&nbsp;“At the Esfahan nuclear site, four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 to EU metal processing facility, which was under construction. As in Natanz, off-site radiation levels remain unchanged,” the IAEA statement said.

The UN’s atomic watchdog said the radiation levels outside Natanz remain unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no radiological impact on the population or the environment from the incident. However, it noted that there is both radiological and chemical contamination inside the facility.

The UN’s atomic watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said on Tuesday (June 17) it now believes that the Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s Natanz enrichment site had “direct impacts” on the facility’s underground centrifuge halls. This is the first time the IAEA has assessed damage from the strikes in the underground parts of Natanz, which is the main enrichment facility of Iran’s nuclear programme. “Based on continued analysis of high-resolution satellite imagery collected after Friday’s attacks, the IAEA has identified additional elements that indicate direct impacts on the underground enrichment halls at Natanz,” the International Atomic Energy Agency wrote on X.

The UN’s atomic watchdog said the radiation levels outside Natanz remain unchanged and at normal levels, indicating no radiological impact on the population or the environment from the incident. However, it noted that there is both radiological and chemical contamination inside the facility.

Iran’s underground Natanz site hit during Israeli strikes, says IAEA, warns of contamination inside facility

Iran is believed to possess the largest and most varied ballistic missile stockpile in the Middle East. Since its Supreme Leader vowed to open “the gates of hell”, Tehran has been launching waves of missiles and drones toward Israel in response to Operation Rising Lion.Some of these projectiles have pierced Israel’s advanced air defence systems.Israel’s ongoing Operation Rising Lion has taken out several high-ranking Iranian military officials and caused damage to sensitive nuclear infrastructure.Israel’s stated goal is to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, both of which have been under development for decades.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-is-israel-s-tech-war-threatening-iran-here-s-why-tehran-is-banning-officials-from-using-mobile-phones-1750158759688">Is Israel's tech-war threatening Iran? Here's why Tehran is banning officials from using&nbsp;mobile&nbsp;phones</a>Iran reportedly had around 3,000 ballistic missiles before the latest strikes, according to US intelligence estimates.<h2>US military warns of Iran’s growing threat</h2>The head of US Central Command, Kenneth McKenzie, recently said Iran’s expanding and increasingly sophisticated missile arsenal poses “a complex deterrence challenge” when combined with its nuclear ambitions.Iran has also been developing hypersonic missiles and short-range rockets, most of which are locally made. These weapons make up the core of Iran’s regional military strategy.<h2>What are ballistic missiles and why are they hard to stop?</h2>Ballistic missiles are rocket-propelled in their initial phase, then follow a free-falling, high-speed trajectory toward their target. Unlike drones, they move at steep angles and high speeds, making them difficult to intercept.<h2>Which missiles has Iran used against Israel?</h2>To strike Israeli targets, Iran needs missiles with ranges over 1,000km. In past attacks, Tehran is believed to have used medium-range missiles like the Emad, Ghadr-1, and Fattah-1, the latter being Iran’s first hypersonic missile.Iran also used Kheibar Shekan missiles during its April and October 2024 attacks on Israel, which feature satellite navigation and in-flight manoeuvrability for greater precision. Just last month, Iran unveiled the Qassem Basir missile, designed to evade Western air defences like the US-made Patriot system.<h2>Can Israel destroy Iran’s nuclear sites?</h2>Israel’s military reportedly targeted Iran’s Natanz nuclear complex, south of Tehran, in its recent strikes. The UN’s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, confirmed the site had been hit.While Israel aims to delay Iran’s nuclear progress, its lack of high-powered bunker-busting bombs may limit its success. Analysts say they would need a 30,000-pound American bomb, but Israel currently only has 5,000-pound munitions.Tehran maintains its nuclear programme is civilian in nature, though the UN has reported violations of the non-proliferation treaty.<h2>Is the conflict close to ending?</h2>With Israel assassinating senior Iranian military and nuclear figures and Tehran vowing even stronger retaliation, there is no indication that the conflict will de-escalate soon. Iran has warned that its next strikes could be “heavier and more extensive” if hostilities continue.

Ballistic missiles are rocket-propelled in their initial phase, then follow a free-falling, high-speed trajectory toward their target. Unlike drones, they move at steep angles and high speeds, making them difficult to intercept.

Iran is believed to possess the largest and most varied ballistic missile stockpile in the Middle East. Since its Supreme Leader vowed to open “the gates of hell”, Tehran has been launching waves of missiles and drones toward Israel in response to Operation Rising Lion. Some of these projectiles have pierced Israel’s advanced air defence systems. Israel’s ongoing Operation Rising Lion has taken out several high-ranking Iranian military officials and caused damage to sensitive nuclear infrastructure. Israel’s stated goal is to dismantle Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, both of which have been under development for decades. Also read: Is Israel's tech-war threatening Iran? Here's why Tehran is banning officials from using mobile phones Iran reportedly had around 3,000 ballistic missiles before the latest strikes, according to US intelligence estimates. US military warns of Iran’s growing threat The head of US Central Command, Kenneth McKenzie, recently said Iran’s expanding and increasingly sophisticated missile arsenal poses “a complex deterrence challenge” when combined with its nuclear ambitions. Iran has also been developing hypersonic missiles and short-range rockets, most of which are locally made. These weapons make up the core of Iran’s regional military strategy. What are ballistic missiles and why are they hard to stop? Ballistic missiles are rocket-propelled in their initial phase, then follow a free-falling, high-speed trajectory toward their target. Unlike drones, they move at steep angles and high speeds, making them difficult to intercept. Which missiles has Iran used against Israel? To strike Israeli targets, Iran needs missiles with ranges over 1,000km. In past attacks, Tehran is believed to have used medium-range missiles like the Emad, Ghadr-1, and Fattah-1, the latter being Iran’s first hypersonic missile. Iran also used Kheibar Shekan missiles during its April and October 2024 attacks on Israel, which feature satellite navigation and in-flight manoeuvrability for greater precision. Just last month, Iran unveiled the Qassem Basir missile, designed to evade Western air defences like the US-made Patriot system. Can Israel destroy Iran’s nuclear sites? Israel’s military reportedly targeted Iran’s Natanz nuclear complex, south of Tehran, in its recent strikes. The UN’s nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency, confirmed the site had been hit. While Israel aims to delay Iran’s nuclear progress, its lack of high-powered bunker-busting bombs may limit its success. Analysts say they would need a 30,000-pound American bomb, but Israel currently only has 5,000-pound munitions. Tehran maintains its nuclear programme is civilian in nature, though the UN has reported violations of the non-proliferation treaty. Is the conflict close to ending? With Israel assassinating senior Iranian military and nuclear figures and Tehran vowing even stronger retaliation, there is no indication that the conflict will de-escalate soon. Iran has warned that its next strikes could be “heavier and more extensive” if hostilities continue.

Ballistic missiles are rocket-propelled in their initial phase, then follow a free-falling, high-speed trajectory toward their target. Unlike drones, they move at steep angles and high speeds, making them difficult to intercept.

Israel-Iran war: Will Tel Aviv lose the air war, or Tehran run out of missiles first?

Israel's attacks on Iran and its counteroffensive have brought unprecedented global attention to the Islamic Republic and its regime. Many are wondering how the theocratic state became the arch rival of the Jewish nation, leading to the current flare-up of hostilities. The religious identity of Iran, as an Islamic Republic, is at the core of its political and strategic belligerence towards Israel. But did you know that Iran, once part of the vast Persian empire, was a much more secular, hybrid and tolerant nation? Let's dive into how Iran moved from a hybrid-secular nation to an Islamic country.<h2>Religious makeup of Iran</h2>Iran is a Muslim-majority nation, with nearly 99 per cent of the population self-identifying as Muslim. Out of this, nearly 95 per cent or around 85 per cent of the total population, is Shia Muslim. &nbsp;Shias, who number around 80 million out of the nearly 87.6 million total population, are the majority community. &nbsp;Shia Islam was established as the official state religion during the Safavid dynasty of 1501–1736. Sunni Muslims, while a prominent community in the rest of West Asia, are a minority in Iran, consisting of around &nbsp;5 to 10 per cent of the Muslim population, or up to 10 per cent of the total population, and is estimated to be around 9 million people (Note that these are only figures in a range, as there could be undercounting of several minority communities). Most Sunnis belong to ethnic minority groups like the Kurds, Turkmen, Arabs, Baloch, and some Persians, and live mainly in provinces like Kurdistan, Sistan-Baluchistan, and Hormozgan.&nbsp; Non-Muslim communities are less than 1 per cent of the population. They include Christians, &nbsp;Baha’is, Zoroastrians, Jews, Yarsanis, and Sabean-Mandaeans. &nbsp;Note that many of the minority communities were persecuted, exiled or undercounted. Iran once hosted one of the largest Jewish populations in the region, for instance, before many of them were forced out. In Iran's past, Zorastrians - or Parsis - &nbsp;were driven out by Muslim conquerers and went into exile to various countries, including India. Bahai's are another silenced community.<h2> Is Islam really a big part of Iranians' daily life? &nbsp;</h2>Given the population figures, the obvious answer is yes, but there are some shifts observed by recent surveys, like the one by GAMAAN in 2020.&nbsp; It found that only 40 per cent of respondents self-identified as Muslim (32 per cent Shia, 5 pc Sunni and 3 pc Sufi).&nbsp; There may be a bias in this study as the survey might have been done only among urban and literate respondents.<h2>Was Iran less ‘Islamic’ before 1979?</h2>The best way to describe Iran just before the Islamic Revolution of 1979 would be as hybrid-secular. Under the Pahlavi dynasty of 1925–1979, which ruled just before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, religion and state were partially separated.&nbsp;Reza Shah Pahlavi, who ruled from 1925–1941, led a modernisation drive in Iran, offering a limited amount of secularisation. The Shah cut down the Shia clergy's influence. He centralised state power and brought in legal codes influenced by the West. He brought in secular reforms like a ban on the hijab in 1936, and promoted Western dress. Under his rule, mosques and Islamic seminaries lost autonomy, with the state taking control of education and judicial systems. Mohammad Reza Shah, who ruled from 1941–1979, continued with these policies. The stress was on modernisation and Westernisation, with undercurrents of secularism.&nbsp; The Islamic clergy was marginalised, with new reforms like the 1963 White Revolution, which included land reforms and women’s suffrage.&nbsp; The state, not the clergy, was in charge of waqf, or Islamic religious endowments.&nbsp;Secular laws were introduced on many aspects of life, even as Shia Islam remained the official state religion as enshrined in the 1906 Constitution. Side note here: The secular policies were creating disenchantment in Islamic clerics and religious people. There was also criticism that the Shah dynasty was beholden to the Anglo-American powers and former colonialists. Another point to note is that Iran was not fully secular like Turkey at the time, as the Shahs had continued the state's links to Shia Islam. Much of the society was still very religious.&nbsp;The Islamic clergy continued to have influence in rural areas and among traditional people who opposed the Shahs. So at best, Iran under the Pahlavis can be described as a hybrid of monarchy with secular laws and reforms, with a society that was still largely followers of Shia Islam. Under the Shahs, the state looked back at Iran's pre-Islam past for inspiration and national identity, based on its Persian heritage, with events celebrating Cyrus the Great, even as it sidelined Islamic religious authorities. Such a secularism, brought by decree from the top, had its pitfalls. As mentioned earlier, the Islamists and conservative sections of the society were angry, and that resentment was a factor that led to the Islamic Revolution. &nbsp;<h2>What was Iran's religion before it became a nation?</h2>&nbsp;Remember that Iran, in its current form as a nation, is part of a vast Persian empire that once spanned almost half the globe.&nbsp; So one has to look at present-day Iran as an inheritor of millennia of evolution when it comes to religion.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Pre-Islam Iran was the land where religions came and went</h2>From around 1000 BCE to 651 CE, &nbsp;Zoroastrianism was the predominant religion of empires centred around present-day Iran. The Achaemenid, Parthian and Sasanian empires had a religion that stressed on good versus evil. Ahura Mazda was their supreme deity. Fire temples and priestly classes known as the Magi were central to religion. Under these empires, new religions and cults emerged, and old ones are thought to have coexisted with them. During Achaemenid Empire, other communities that lived in the Persian region included Jews, Christians, and those following Mithraism and Manichaeism. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>The Muslim conquest of 651 CE started the change in Iran's religious landscape</h2>Islam was introduced to the Iranian region through the Arab Muslim conquests. Over the subsequent centuries, most Iranians converted, mainly to Shia Islam.&nbsp;&nbsp;By the 10th century AD, Shia Islam became deeply rooted in Iran, particularly with the Buyid dynasty and Safavids. At this time, Zoroastrians were persecuted. They and other minorities like Jews and Christians lived as protected, yet second-class citizens, generally known as ‘dhimmis’. Safavid Dynasty of 1501–1736 enforced the conversion of the Sunni population and established a strong Shia clergy. This was the era that brought in Iran's current Shia national identity. The Qajar Dynasty of 1789–1925 continued the Shia dominance, with the clerics given vast powers over key aspects of life like law and education.<h2>The stranglehold of religion was eased with the Constitutional Revolution</h2>In the late 19th century, during and under the influence of British colonialists, Western ideas like nationalism and constitutionalism were introduced to Iran.&nbsp; This led to the 1906 Constitutional Revolution, and Iranian nationhood. The constitution, while keeping Shia Islam as the state religion, still allowed limited religious freedoms for minorities like Zoroastrians, Jews and Christians.&nbsp; A parliament was introduced, and the powers of the monarchy, by this time under attack by the Western colonial powers, had been weakened. &nbsp;<h2>Iran's transition from semi-secular to Islamist</h2>Resentment towards the Pahlavi Dynasty of 1925–1979, particularly about its promotion of a pre-Islamic identity for Iran, was the seed for the Islamic Revolution of 1978--79. The clergy, whose powers were cut short by the Shahs, wanted to gain back control. Socially, Shia Islam was still the dominant force, which meant that at the ground level, religious minorities faced discrimination despite the legal protections ensured in the constitution. The Islamic Revolution was in fact, prompted and led by a disgruntled group of clerics, conservatives and traditionalists. They saw in the Shah’s dynasty the influence of Western cultural imperialism, which was aimed at preserving the Anglo-American interests, mainly in the then recently-emerged oil wealth of Iran. While the Western powers continued to plunder Iran's wealth, the country's economy suffered under the Shahs. It is from this disgruntlement that figures like the Ruhollah Ayatollah Khomeini emerged.&nbsp; Khomeini, who was living in exile at the time, advocated for a nation governed under Islamic principles. That was the beginning of the &nbsp;Islamic Revolution of 1979.<h2>Post Islamic Revolution: How Iran went back to Shia Islam</h2>The Islamic Revolution was a reaction to both the Shah regime, and the Anglo-American petrodollar interests that kept it in power.&nbsp; At the time, a return to Islamic principles was seen as the best way for Iran to come out of the Western influence, with the accusation that Iran's economy was suffering at the hands of the British-US duo, particularly the oil. After the Islamic Revolution, Khomeini established a nation under the so-called Velayat-e Faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. Once again, Shia Islam, already the dominant religion, became the preeminent force of the state, with a cleric, the Supreme Leader in the form of Khomeini, becoming the ultimate authority.<h2>Sharia law changed the face of Iran's religious life</h2>A new constitution, established in 1979 enshrined Shia Islam as the state religion. Sharia, or Islamic law became the governing force for legal, social, and political aspects of Iran.&nbsp; &nbsp;Under Sharia, the state strictly enforced Islamic codes on dress and behaviour. &nbsp;Shia rituals like Ashura became central to national identity, and the clergy dominated politics and education. Technically, the non-Shia Muslims such as the Sunnis, as well as Zoroastrians, Jews, and Christians are recognised as minorities, but in reality, their rights are limited, while unrecognised groups like Baha’is face persecution. Currently, Iran remains a theocracy, with Shia Islam as the ideological backbone.&nbsp; The government funds religious institutions, and the clergy controls key sectors.&nbsp;<h2>Will Iran go back to being hybrid -secular?</h2>Dissent is actively curtailed in Iran, which has witnessed several movements against the theocratic state, all of which were forcibly suppressed. Many of these movements are secular and reformist in nature, but are concentrated in urban youth and intellectuals, while the rural folk still remain highly religious. There is a segment of society yearning for reform and more liberal attitudes towards religion and life, yet the state retains tight control over these matters.&nbsp; Sometimes, these tensions come to the fore, as seen in the 2022 anti-veil protest in the wake of Mahsa Amini's death in police custody.&nbsp;For the time being, those wanting reforms and the Islamist state are in a tense coexistence.&nbsp;

There is a segment of society yearning for reform and more liberal attitudes towards religion and life, yet the Shia Islam state retains tight control over these matters. 


Israel's attacks on Iran and its counteroffensive have brought unprecedented global attention to the Islamic Republic and its regime. Many are wondering how the theocratic state became the arch rival of the Jewish nation, leading to the current flare-up of hostilities. The religious identity of Iran, as an Islamic Republic, is at the core of its political and strategic belligerence towards Israel. But did you know that Iran, once part of the vast Persian empire, was a much more secular, hybrid and tolerant nation? Let's dive into how Iran moved from a hybrid-secular nation to an Islamic country. Religious makeup of Iran Iran is a Muslim-majority nation, with nearly 99 per cent of the population self-identifying as Muslim. Out of this, nearly 95 per cent or around 85 per cent of the total population, is Shia Muslim. Shias, who number around 80 million out of the nearly 87.6 million total population, are the majority community. Shia Islam was established as the official state religion during the Safavid dynasty of 1501–1736. Sunni Muslims, while a prominent community in the rest of West Asia, are a minority in Iran, consisting of around 5 to 10 per cent of the Muslim population, or up to 10 per cent of the total population, and is estimated to be around 9 million people (Note that these are only figures in a range, as there could be undercounting of several minority communities). Most Sunnis belong to ethnic minority groups like the Kurds, Turkmen, Arabs, Baloch, and some Persians, and live mainly in provinces like Kurdistan, Sistan-Baluchistan, and Hormozgan. Non-Muslim communities are less than 1 per cent of the population. They include Christians, Baha’is, Zoroastrians, Jews, Yarsanis, and Sabean-Mandaeans. Note that many of the minority communities were persecuted, exiled or undercounted. Iran once hosted one of the largest Jewish populations in the region, for instance, before many of them were forced out. In Iran's past, Zorastrians - or Parsis - were driven out by Muslim conquerers and went into exile to various countries, including India. Bahai's are another silenced community. Is Islam really a big part of Iranians' daily life? Given the population figures, the obvious answer is yes, but there are some shifts observed by recent surveys, like the one by GAMAAN in 2020. It found that only 40 per cent of respondents self-identified as Muslim (32 per cent Shia, 5 pc Sunni and 3 pc Sufi). There may be a bias in this study as the survey might have been done only among urban and literate respondents. Was Iran less ‘Islamic’ before 1979? The best way to describe Iran just before the Islamic Revolution of 1979 would be as hybrid-secular. Under the Pahlavi dynasty of 1925–1979, which ruled just before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, religion and state were partially separated. Reza Shah Pahlavi, who ruled from 1925–1941, led a modernisation drive in Iran, offering a limited amount of secularisation. The Shah cut down the Shia clergy's influence. He centralised state power and brought in legal codes influenced by the West. He brought in secular reforms like a ban on the hijab in 1936, and promoted Western dress. Under his rule, mosques and Islamic seminaries lost autonomy, with the state taking control of education and judicial systems. Mohammad Reza Shah, who ruled from 1941–1979, continued with these policies. The stress was on modernisation and Westernisation, with undercurrents of secularism. The Islamic clergy was marginalised, with new reforms like the 1963 White Revolution, which included land reforms and women’s suffrage. The state, not the clergy, was in charge of waqf, or Islamic religious endowments. Secular laws were introduced on many aspects of life, even as Shia Islam remained the official state religion as enshrined in the 1906 Constitution. Side note here: The secular policies were creating disenchantment in Islamic clerics and religious people. There was also criticism that the Shah dynasty was beholden to the Anglo-American powers and former colonialists. Another point to note is that Iran was not fully secular like Turkey at the time, as the Shahs had continued the state's links to Shia Islam. Much of the society was still very religious. The Islamic clergy continued to have influence in rural areas and among traditional people who opposed the Shahs. So at best, Iran under the Pahlavis can be described as a hybrid of monarchy with secular laws and reforms, with a society that was still largely followers of Shia Islam. Under the Shahs, the state looked back at Iran's pre-Islam past for inspiration and national identity, based on its Persian heritage, with events celebrating Cyrus the Great, even as it sidelined Islamic religious authorities. Such a secularism, brought by decree from the top, had its pitfalls. As mentioned earlier, the Islamists and conservative sections of the society were angry, and that resentment was a factor that led to the Islamic Revolution. What was Iran's religion before it became a nation? Remember that Iran, in its current form as a nation, is part of a vast Persian empire that once spanned almost half the globe. So one has to look at present-day Iran as an inheritor of millennia of evolution when it comes to religion. Pre-Islam Iran was the land where religions came and went From around 1000 BCE to 651 CE, Zoroastrianism was the predominant religion of empires centred around present-day Iran. The Achaemenid, Parthian and Sasanian empires had a religion that stressed on good versus evil. Ahura Mazda was their supreme deity. Fire temples and priestly classes known as the Magi were central to religion. Under these empires, new religions and cults emerged, and old ones are thought to have coexisted with them. During Achaemenid Empire, other communities that lived in the Persian region included Jews, Christians, and those following Mithraism and Manichaeism. The Muslim conquest of 651 CE started the change in Iran's religious landscape Islam was introduced to the Iranian region through the Arab Muslim conquests. Over the subsequent centuries, most Iranians converted, mainly to Shia Islam. By the 10th century AD, Shia Islam became deeply rooted in Iran, particularly with the Buyid dynasty and Safavids. At this time, Zoroastrians were persecuted. They and other minorities like Jews and Christians lived as protected, yet second-class citizens, generally known as ‘dhimmis’. Safavid Dynasty of 1501–1736 enforced the conversion of the Sunni population and established a strong Shia clergy. This was the era that brought in Iran's current Shia national identity. The Qajar Dynasty of 1789–1925 continued the Shia dominance, with the clerics given vast powers over key aspects of life like law and education. The stranglehold of religion was eased with the Constitutional Revolution In the late 19th century, during and under the influence of British colonialists, Western ideas like nationalism and constitutionalism were introduced to Iran. This led to the 1906 Constitutional Revolution, and Iranian nationhood. The constitution, while keeping Shia Islam as the state religion, still allowed limited religious freedoms for minorities like Zoroastrians, Jews and Christians. A parliament was introduced, and the powers of the monarchy, by this time under attack by the Western colonial powers, had been weakened. Iran's transition from semi-secular to Islamist Resentment towards the Pahlavi Dynasty of 1925–1979, particularly about its promotion of a pre-Islamic identity for Iran, was the seed for the Islamic Revolution of 1978--79. The clergy, whose powers were cut short by the Shahs, wanted to gain back control. Socially, Shia Islam was still the dominant force, which meant that at the ground level, religious minorities faced discrimination despite the legal protections ensured in the constitution. The Islamic Revolution was in fact, prompted and led by a disgruntled group of clerics, conservatives and traditionalists. They saw in the Shah’s dynasty the influence of Western cultural imperialism, which was aimed at preserving the Anglo-American interests, mainly in the then recently-emerged oil wealth of Iran. While the Western powers continued to plunder Iran's wealth, the country's economy suffered under the Shahs. It is from this disgruntlement that figures like the Ruhollah Ayatollah Khomeini emerged. Khomeini, who was living in exile at the time, advocated for a nation governed under Islamic principles. That was the beginning of the Islamic Revolution of 1979. Post Islamic Revolution: How Iran went back to Shia Islam The Islamic Revolution was a reaction to both the Shah regime, and the Anglo-American petrodollar interests that kept it in power. At the time, a return to Islamic principles was seen as the best way for Iran to come out of the Western influence, with the accusation that Iran's economy was suffering at the hands of the British-US duo, particularly the oil. After the Islamic Revolution, Khomeini established a nation under the so-called Velayat-e Faqih or Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist. Once again, Shia Islam, already the dominant religion, became the preeminent force of the state, with a cleric, the Supreme Leader in the form of Khomeini, becoming the ultimate authority. Sharia law changed the face of Iran's religious life A new constitution, established in 1979 enshrined Shia Islam as the state religion. Sharia, or Islamic law became the governing force for legal, social, and political aspects of Iran. Under Sharia, the state strictly enforced Islamic codes on dress and behaviour. Shia rituals like Ashura became central to national identity, and the clergy dominated politics and education. Technically, the non-Shia Muslims such as the Sunnis, as well as Zoroastrians, Jews, and Christians are recognised as minorities, but in reality, their rights are limited, while unrecognised groups like Baha’is face persecution. Currently, Iran remains a theocracy, with Shia Islam as the ideological backbone. The government funds religious institutions, and the clergy controls key sectors. Will Iran go back to being hybrid -secular? Dissent is actively curtailed in Iran, which has witnessed several movements against the theocratic state, all of which were forcibly suppressed. Many of these movements are secular and reformist in nature, but are concentrated in urban youth and intellectuals, while the rural folk still remain highly religious. There is a segment of society yearning for reform and more liberal attitudes towards religion and life, yet the state retains tight control over these matters. Sometimes, these tensions come to the fore, as seen in the 2022 anti-veil protest in the wake of Mahsa Amini's death in police custody. For the time being, those wanting reforms and the Islamist state are in a tense coexistence.

Did you know that Iran, once part of the vast Persian empire, was a much more secular, hybrid and tolerant nation?&nbsp;

Muslim country Iran wasn't always ‘Islamic’: How it went from hybrid secular to theocratic state

India has begun the evacuation of its nationals from Iran amid the escalating tensions between Tehran and Israel. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia. The first batch of 110 students reached the Armenian border, &nbsp;and will be evacuated from there by air.&nbsp;The MEA statement also added, "Indian students in Tehran have been moved out of the city for reasons of safety, through arrangements made by the Embassy. Other residents who are self-sufficient in terms of transport have also been advised to move out of the city in view of the developing situation. The Embassy remains continuously in touch with the community with a view to extending all feasible assistance."&nbsp;WATCH&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Indian students from the union territory of J&amp;K cross the Iran border into Armenia. <a href="https://t.co/5XvVbWgSR4">https://t.co/5XvVbWgSR4</a> <a href="https://t.co/VknDYmeKpI">pic.twitter.com/VknDYmeKpI</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1934867491714433305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;This comes after Iran responded to India's request for the safe evacuation of Indian students saying that though the airspace is closed over Iran, all land borders are open for the safe evacuation. &nbsp;"Given the current condition and the closure of the country's airports, as well as the request of many political missions to transfer their diplomats and nationals abroad, we inform you that all land borders are open for crossing," it said. &nbsp;Tehran asked India to give the names, passport numbers, and vehicle specifications of the people crossing the borders to its General Protocol Department. It also asked for the time of travel and the desired border, through which the person will exit the country, to make necessary arrangements for the safe travel of diplomats and other citizens. Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. The to-and-fro offensive has continued for four days now.&nbsp;Earlier, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) established a 24x7 control room and shared a list of helpline numbers and email IDs for Indians in Iran.&nbsp;Contact details of MEA's control room: 1800118797 (Toll free) +91-11-23012113 +91-11-23014104 +91-11-23017905 +91-9968291988 (Whatsapp) <a href="mailto:situationroom@mea.gov.in">situationroom@mea.gov.in</a> &nbsp;24x7 emergency helpline for Indians in Iran: For call only : 1. +98 9128109115, +98 9128109109 For WhatsApp: 2. +98 901044557, +98 9015993320, +91 8086871709. 3. ⁠Bandar Abbas: +98 9177699036 4. ⁠Zahedan: +98 9396356649 <a href="mailto:cons.tehran@mea.gov.in">cons.tehran@mea.gov.in</a>

Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia

India has begun the evacuation of its nationals from Iran amid the escalating tensions between Tehran and Israel. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia. The first batch of 110 students reached the Armenian border, and will be evacuated from there by air. The MEA statement also added, "Indian students in Tehran have been moved out of the city for reasons of safety, through arrangements made by the Embassy. Other residents who are self-sufficient in terms of transport have also been advised to move out of the city in view of the developing situation. The Embassy remains continuously in touch with the community with a view to extending all feasible assistance." WATCH

&nbsp;India's Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that some Indians have been facilitated to leave Iran through the border with Armenia

Iran-Israel tensions: India begins evacuation from Tehran via Armenia, first batch of 110 students to leave today

Many Iranian citizens are in panic as Israeli forces have struck their intended targets in the Islamic Republic at will and with precision, instilling fear and anxiety in the citizens who are desperate to flee capital Tehran to safety.&nbsp;As Israel continues to unleash its announced strikes and hit the state TV headquarters as promised earlier, many Iranians are fleeing major cities and causing traffic jams on roads leading north toward the Caspian Sea.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Monday, the Israeli military issued a chilling warning, urging residents of Tehran to evacuate “immediately”.&nbsp;“In the coming hours, the Israeli military will operate in the area, as it has in recent days throughout Tehran, to strike military infrastructure of the Iranian regime,” the post read.&nbsp;&nbsp;A user on X posted a video of traffic on a highway leading out of Tehran, saying, “Thousands of vehicles have left Tehran. People are mostly fleeing to areas close to the Turkish border. If the attacks continue, millions of Iranians are expected to seek asylum in Türkiye.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Thousands of vehicles have left Tehran. People are mostly fleeing to areas close to the Turkish border. If the attacks continue, millions of Iranians are expected to seek asylum in Türkiye. <a href="https://t.co/q5ApcMwlmU">pic.twitter.com/q5ApcMwlmU</a>&mdash; Cyrus Intel (@Cyrus_Intel) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cyrus_Intel/status/1934348280302866876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A group of citizens of Saadat Abad, an affluent neighbourhood in north Tehran that was reportedly struck in recent days, described the night that rocked the area and said there was chaos as families rushed to the ground floors, struggling to calm their frightened children.&nbsp;Iran’s capital is not prepared for aerial conflict, unlike Israeli cities that have bomb shelters.&nbsp;However, daily life continues despite the looming threat. But long queues for fuel are now common, with a cap of 25 litres per customer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Images and videos shared on social media show rows of cars loaded with families and supplies heading toward rural areas.&nbsp;&nbsp;Another user posted a daytime video of traffic crawling on the highway and said, “Trump just said that the US involvement in Iran-Israel conflict is possible as people flee Tehran. I thought he promised no new conflicts.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: Trump just said that the US involvement in Iran-Israel conflict is possible as people flee Tehran. I thought he promised no new conflicts. <a href="https://t.co/2Gzt8pZwsK">pic.twitter.com/2Gzt8pZwsK</a>&mdash; Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) <a href="https://twitter.com/krassenstein/status/1934256244325507157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The continuing Israeli strikes on Iranian military infrastructure, including nuclear facilities in Natanz and Isfahan, have heightened international concerns as well.

A user on X posted a video of traffic on a highway leading out of Tehran, saying, “Thousands of vehicles have left Tehran. People are mostly fleeing to areas close to the Turkish border. If the attacks continue, millions of Iranians are expected to seek asylum in Türkiye.”

Many Iranian citizens are in panic as Israeli forces have struck their intended targets in the Islamic Republic at will and with precision, instilling fear and anxiety in the citizens who are desperate to flee capital Tehran to safety. As Israel continues to unleash its announced strikes and hit the state TV headquarters as promised earlier, many Iranians are fleeing major cities and causing traffic jams on roads leading north toward the Caspian Sea. On Monday, the Israeli military issued a chilling warning, urging residents of Tehran to evacuate “immediately”. “In the coming hours, the Israeli military will operate in the area, as it has in recent days throughout Tehran, to strike military infrastructure of the Iranian regime,” the post read. A user on X posted a video of traffic on a highway leading out of Tehran, saying, “Thousands of vehicles have left Tehran. People are mostly fleeing to areas close to the Turkish border. If the attacks continue, millions of Iranians are expected to seek asylum in Türkiye.”

A user on X posted a video of traffic on a highway leading out of Tehran, saying, “Thousands of vehicles have left Tehran. People are mostly fleeing to areas close to the Turkish border. If the attacks continue, millions of Iranians are expected to seek asylum in Türkiye.”

‘Terrified’ Iranians try fleeing Israeli attacks, cause massive jams on Tehran highway | Watch

Iran has launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel, Iranian state media reported. This comes as hostilities between the two nations continue for the fourth day.&nbsp;“A new salvo of missiles against the occupied territories (Israel) is beginning,” state TV reported.&nbsp;The Bazan Group, one of the largest energy groups in Israel, said that all oil refineries in the Haifa Bay have been shut down after a deadly Iranian strike. Three people were killed in the incident.&nbsp;In a statement to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, Bazan said that “as a result of damage to the facilities, the power plant was significantly damaged, and therefore all of the refinery’s and subsidiary companies’ facilities were shut down.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Iranian Red Crescent said that an Israeli air strike in northwest Tehran killed three rescuers.&nbsp;The Israeli military on Monday (Jun 16) struck the headquarters of Iranian state television in northern Tehran during its live broadcast. They had earlier issued an evacuation warning for the area.&nbsp;Iran has said at least 224 people have been killed and more than 1,200 wounded due to Israeli strikes. The Israeli prime minister’s office reported that 24 people have been killed while 300 have been injured due to Iran’s missiles and drone attacks.&nbsp;Following a strike, Israel said it hit command centres for Iran’s expeditionary branch of the Revolutionary Guard, the Quds Force, which coordinates support for proxy forces across the region.&nbsp;Israel had also targeted Iran's energy production facilities and manufacturing plants on Sunday in what is described as the heaviest wave of attacks yet.&nbsp;In a press conference shortly before, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel was “changing the face of the Middle East” with its military operations against the Iranian regime.&nbsp;“We are changing the face of the Middle East,” he said. The Israeli prime minister also outlined Israel’s strikes against Iranian nuclear and military targets.&nbsp;“We are eliminating them, one after the other,” he said, speaking of Iran’s military leadership.&nbsp;Netanyahu said that Iranians’ perception of their government had changed, adding that they now saw it was “much weaker than they thought.”&nbsp;“They understand that the regime is much weaker than they thought -- they realise it, and that could lead to results,” he said.

Iran has launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel, Iranian state media reported.

Iran has launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel, Iranian state media reported. This comes as hostilities between the two nations continue for the fourth day. “A new salvo of missiles against the occupied territories (Israel) is beginning,” state TV reported. The Bazan Group, one of the largest energy groups in Israel, said that all oil refineries in the Haifa Bay have been shut down after a deadly Iranian strike. Three people were killed in the incident. In a statement to the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, Bazan said that “as a result of damage to the facilities, the power plant was significantly damaged, and therefore all of the refinery’s and subsidiary companies’ facilities were shut down.” Meanwhile, the Iranian Red Crescent said that an Israeli air strike in northwest Tehran killed three rescuers. The Israeli military on Monday (Jun 16) struck the headquarters of Iranian state television in northern Tehran during its live broadcast. They had earlier issued an evacuation warning for the area. Iran has said at least 224 people have been killed and more than 1,200 wounded due to Israeli strikes. The Israeli prime minister’s office reported that 24 people have been killed while 300 have been injured due to Iran’s missiles and drone attacks. Following a strike, Israel said it hit command centres for Iran’s expeditionary branch of the Revolutionary Guard, the Quds Force, which coordinates support for proxy forces across the region. Israel had also targeted Iran's energy production facilities and manufacturing plants on Sunday in what is described as the heaviest wave of attacks yet. In a press conference shortly before, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel was “changing the face of the Middle East” with its military operations against the Iranian regime. “We are changing the face of the Middle East,” he said. The Israeli prime minister also outlined Israel’s strikes against Iranian nuclear and military targets. “We are eliminating them, one after the other,” he said, speaking of Iran’s military leadership. Netanyahu said that Iranians’ perception of their government had changed, adding that they now saw it was “much weaker than they thought.” “They understand that the regime is much weaker than they thought -- they realise it, and that could lead to results,” he said.

Iran has launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel, Iranian state media reported.

Israel-Iran war: Iran launches fresh wave of strikes targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa

The UN nuclear watchdog chief said on Monday that it is very likely all the roughly 15,000 centrifuges operating at Iran’s biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz were badly damaged or destroyed because of a power cut caused by an Israeli strike.&nbsp;The International Atomic Energy Agency and its Director General Rafael Grossi had earlier said the centrifuges at the underground enrichment plant at Natanz may have been damaged as a result of an airstrike on its power supply, even though the hall housing the plant itself did not seem to have been hit.&nbsp;“Our assessment is that with this sudden loss of external power, in great probability the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether,” Grossi said in an interview with the BBC.“I think there has been damage inside,” he said.&nbsp;Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action.Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.&nbsp;The above-ground pilot enrichment plant at Natanz was destroyed, said Grossi repeating his update to an exceptional meeting of his agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors hours earlier.&nbsp;Grossi further told the board that no damage was seen at the separate Fordow enrichment plant dug deep into a mountain. He later told the BBC, “There is very limited, if any, damage registered (there).”&nbsp;While the IAEA has not been able to carry out inspections since the attacks, it makes extensive use of satellite imagery.Grossi shared details on the damage to the four buildings at the Isfahan nuclear complex, including a uranium-conversion facility that turns ‘yellowcake’ uranium into uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, so it can be enriched to higher fissile purity.&nbsp;“Four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 (uranium tetrafluoride) to EU (enriched uranium) metal processing facility, which was under construction,” he said.&nbsp;“In Isfahan you have underground spaces as well, which do not seem to have been affected,” said Grossi, adding further details while speaking to BBC.A Reuters report, citing a senior diplomat, said that the underground spaces are where much of Iran’s most highly enriched uranium stock is stored, but it will need closer examination to fully assess the situation there.

Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action, said Grossi. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.

The UN nuclear watchdog chief said on Monday that it is very likely all the roughly 15,000 centrifuges operating at Iran’s biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz were badly damaged or destroyed because of a power cut caused by an Israeli strike. The International Atomic Energy Agency and its Director General Rafael Grossi had earlier said the centrifuges at the underground enrichment plant at Natanz may have been damaged as a result of an airstrike on its power supply, even though the hall housing the plant itself did not seem to have been hit. “Our assessment is that with this sudden loss of external power, in great probability the centrifuges have been severely damaged if not destroyed altogether,” Grossi said in an interview with the BBC. “I think there has been damage inside,” he said. Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds. The above-ground pilot enrichment plant at Natanz was destroyed, said Grossi repeating his update to an exceptional meeting of his agency’s 35-nation Board of Governors hours earlier. Grossi further told the board that no damage was seen at the separate Fordow enrichment plant dug deep into a mountain. He later told the BBC, “There is very limited, if any, damage registered (there).” While the IAEA has not been able to carry out inspections since the attacks, it makes extensive use of satellite imagery. Grossi shared details on the damage to the four buildings at the Isfahan nuclear complex, including a uranium-conversion facility that turns ‘yellowcake’ uranium into uranium hexafluoride, the feedstock for centrifuges, so it can be enriched to higher fissile purity. “Four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant, and the UF4 (uranium tetrafluoride) to EU (enriched uranium) metal processing facility, which was under construction,” he said. “In Isfahan you have underground spaces as well, which do not seem to have been affected,” said Grossi, adding further details while speaking to BBC. A Reuters report, citing a senior diplomat, said that the underground spaces are where much of Iran’s most highly enriched uranium stock is stored, but it will need closer examination to fully assess the situation there.

Israel’s airstrikes have put at least two of Iran’s three operating uranium enrichment plants out of action, said Grossi. Power cuts pose a grave threat to the fragile, finely balanced machines that spin at extremely high speeds.

IAEA chief: Machines at Iran’s main enrichment plant at Natanz very likely ‘severely damaged’

Iran has warned two Israeli TV channels to evacuate following an Israeli airstrike on its state broadcaster in Tehran. Iranian state television said on Monday that evacuation orders were issued for Israel’s N12 and N14 news networks."Iran has issued an evacuation warning for the N12 and N14 channels of Israel. This order comes in response to the hostile attack of Zionist enemy against the Islamic republic of Iran's broadcasting service,"&nbsp;state&nbsp;TV&nbsp;said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-iran-state-tv-goes-dark-anchor-flees-after-israeli-strike-hits-during-live-broadcast-great-iran-will-not-be-silenced-says-irib-1750091479602">WATCH | Iran state TV goes dark, anchor flees after Israeli strike hits during live broadcast; 'great Iran will not be silenced'&nbsp;says&nbsp;IRIB</a>The warning came hours after the Israeli Air Force bombed the headquarters of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) in the capital. The strike happened during a live programme, cutting off the broadcast mid-show. A visibly shocked presenter was seen leaving the studio as the signal was interrupted.<h2>Israel accused of trying to silence Iranian media</h2>After the broadcast resumed, Iranian state TV showed a ticker claiming Israel was trying to “silence the voice of truth”. Another message on screen described the strike as a “brutal violation”.Hassan Abedini, a senior official at IRIB, said, “The regime (Israel) was unaware of the fact that the voice of the Islamic revolution and the great Iran will not be silenced with a military operation.”Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz defended the attack, saying Iran’s media was a “propaganda and incitement mouthpiece”. He added that Israel would “strike everywhere” in response to Iran’s actions and issued a warning to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.<h2>Iran calls for UN action, warns of retaliation</h2>Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei condemned the attack, labelling it a “war crime” and urged the United Nations Security Council to intervene.Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iranian forces would continue to “pummel” Israel until it stopped its strikes. He added that former US President Donald Trump could help halt the conflict with “one phone call”.“That may pave the way for a return to diplomacy,” Araghchi said.

The warning came hours after the Israeli Air Force bombed the headquarters of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) in the capital. The strike happened during a live programme, cutting off the broadcast mid-show.

Iran has warned two Israeli TV channels to evacuate following an Israeli airstrike on its state broadcaster in Tehran. Iranian state television said on Monday that evacuation orders were issued for Israel’s N12 and N14 news networks. "Iran has issued an evacuation warning for the N12 and N14 channels of Israel. This order comes in response to the hostile attack of Zionist enemy against the Islamic republic of Iran's broadcasting service," state TV said. Also read: WATCH | Iran state TV goes dark, anchor flees after Israeli strike hits during live broadcast; 'great Iran will not be silenced' says IRIB The warning came hours after the Israeli Air Force bombed the headquarters of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) in the capital. The strike happened during a live programme, cutting off the broadcast mid-show. A visibly shocked presenter was seen leaving the studio as the signal was interrupted. Israel accused of trying to silence Iranian media After the broadcast resumed, Iranian state TV showed a ticker claiming Israel was trying to “silence the voice of truth”. Another message on screen described the strike as a “brutal violation”. Hassan Abedini, a senior official at IRIB, said, “The regime (Israel) was unaware of the fact that the voice of the Islamic revolution and the great Iran will not be silenced with a military operation.” Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz defended the attack, saying Iran’s media was a “propaganda and incitement mouthpiece”. He added that Israel would “strike everywhere” in response to Iran’s actions and issued a warning to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran calls for UN action, warns of retaliation Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei condemned the attack, labelling it a “war crime” and urged the United Nations Security Council to intervene. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iranian forces would continue to “pummel” Israel until it stopped its strikes. He added that former US President Donald Trump could help halt the conflict with “one phone call”. “That may pave the way for a return to diplomacy,” Araghchi said.

The warning came hours after the Israeli Air Force bombed the headquarters of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) in the capital. The strike happened during a live programme, cutting off the broadcast mid-show.

'In response to hostile attack': Iran issues EVACUATION WARNING for Israeli TV channels after Tel Aviv bombs state television

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (June 16) said that Israel was “changing the face of the Middle East” with its military operations against the Iranian regime, which could bring “radical changes” for Tehran.&nbsp;“We are changing the face of the Middle East, and that can lead to radical changes inside Iran itself,” he said in a press conference. The Israeli prime minister also outlined Israel’s strikes against Iranian nuclear and military targets.&nbsp;Netanyahu said that Iranians’ perception of their government had changed, adding that they now saw it was “much weaker than they thought.”&nbsp;“They understand that the regime is much weaker than they thought – they realise it, and that could lead to results,” he said.&nbsp;Israel on Friday (Jun 13) launched strikes against Iran, targeting several sites across the country. Following this, Iran launched retaliatory attacks against Israel, sparking fears of a larger regional conflict.&nbsp;“We have eliminated Iran's security leadership, including three chiefs of staff, the commander of their air force, two intelligence chiefs,” Netanyahu added. “We are eliminating them, one after the other.”&nbsp;Israel was “pursuing three main objectives: the elimination of the nuclear programme, the elimination of ballistic missile production capability, and the elimination of the axis of terrorism,” he said, referring to Iranian-backed militant groups in the Middle East.&nbsp;“We will do what is necessary to achieve these goals, and we are well coordinated with the United States,” he said.&nbsp;Iran’s state TV reported that Iran launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel. The hostilities between the two nations have continued for the fourth day.&nbsp;Following Iranian strikes, all oil refineries in the Haifa Bay were shut down, and three people were killed. Meanwhile, the Iranian Red Crescent said that an Israeli air strike in northwest Tehran killed three rescuers.&nbsp;Iran has said at least 224 people have been killed and more than 1,200 wounded due to Israeli strikes. The Israeli prime minister’s office reported that 24 people have been killed while 300 have been injured due to Iran’s missiles and drone attacks.

“We are changing the face of the Middle East,” he said during a press conference. The Israeli prime minister also outlined Israel’s strikes against Iranian nuclear and military targets.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday (June 16) said that Israel was “changing the face of the Middle East” with its military operations against the Iranian regime, which could bring “radical changes” for Tehran. “We are changing the face of the Middle East, and that can lead to radical changes inside Iran itself,” he said in a press conference. The Israeli prime minister also outlined Israel’s strikes against Iranian nuclear and military targets. Netanyahu said that Iranians’ perception of their government had changed, adding that they now saw it was “much weaker than they thought.” “They understand that the regime is much weaker than they thought – they realise it, and that could lead to results,” he said. Israel on Friday (Jun 13) launched strikes against Iran, targeting several sites across the country. Following this, Iran launched retaliatory attacks against Israel, sparking fears of a larger regional conflict. “We have eliminated Iran's security leadership, including three chiefs of staff, the commander of their air force, two intelligence chiefs,” Netanyahu added. “We are eliminating them, one after the other.” Israel was “pursuing three main objectives: the elimination of the nuclear programme, the elimination of ballistic missile production capability, and the elimination of the axis of terrorism,” he said, referring to Iranian-backed militant groups in the Middle East. “We will do what is necessary to achieve these goals, and we are well coordinated with the United States,” he said. Iran’s state TV reported that Iran launched a fresh wave of drone and missile attacks targeting Tel Aviv and Haifa, two major cities of Israel. The hostilities between the two nations have continued for the fourth day. Following Iranian strikes, all oil refineries in the Haifa Bay were shut down, and three people were killed. Meanwhile, the Iranian Red Crescent said that an Israeli air strike in northwest Tehran killed three rescuers. Iran has said at least 224 people have been killed and more than 1,200 wounded due to Israeli strikes. The Israeli prime minister’s office reported that 24 people have been killed while 300 have been injured due to Iran’s missiles and drone attacks.

“We are changing the face of the Middle East,” he said during a press conference. The Israeli prime minister also outlined Israel’s strikes against Iranian nuclear and military targets.

Killing Iran’s military leaders ‘one by one’: Netanyahu says Israel ‘changing face of Middle East’

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