Iran has firmly rejected Europe’s push to extend the sanctions deadline, warning that Germany, France, and the UK have no authority to trigger snapback sanctions.


Iran under pressure to resume nuclear talks with US & re-engage with IAEA

Kulthum Akbari, a 56-year-old Iranian woman, is accused of poisoning at least 11 elderly husbands over 22 years for financial gain. Using drugs and toxins to mimic natural illnesses, she concealed her crimes until recent investigations exposed her. Known as Iran’s “Black Widow,” her case has shocked the public and sparked a high profile legal battle.


From marriage to murder: How Iran's Black Widow killed her 11 husbands

Iran has firmly rejected Europe’s push to extend the sanctions deadline, warning that Germany, France, and the UK have no authority to trigger snapback sanctions.

Iran rejects Europe’s sanctions deadline, warns against snapback measures 

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian is holding talks in Armenia about a corridor project near the border with Iran, which Iran had recently vowed to block due to concerns over a potential US presence in the region.


Iran-Armenia ties: Armenia assures Iran will control border corridor post 'Trump corridor' deal

Armenia Assures Iran Will Control Border Corridor  Post 'Trump Corridor' Deal | WION

A tragic bus crash in western Afghanistan killed at least 79 people, including 17 children. The bus was carrying Afghan migrants deported from Iran, the BBC reported, citing a Taliban interior ministry spokesperson. Most of the people killed, were on the bus, which was en route to Kabul.The bus was travelling from Iran to the Afghan capital on late Tuesday, when it collided with a motorbike and another vehicle in the western province of Herat near the Iranian border, a senior Afghan government official, Ahmadullah Muttaqi said.“The car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus, fully loaded with passengers,” he said.He added, “The bus also caught fire and the majority of people on the bus died of burn injuries.”"All the passengers were migrants who had boarded the vehicle in Islam Qala," provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told news agency AFP, referring to a town near the Afghanistan–Iran border.According to the Herat police, the accident happened because of the bus driver's "excessive speed and negligence."Muttaqi also said that these Afghan refugees were returning home after spending a long time in Iran, but they could not reach their destination as their bus met with a tragic accident.These Afghan migrants are among hundreds of thousands of Afghans who have returned in the last months from Iran and Pakistan, after the announcement of a crackdown in October 2024, claiming that they were living illegally.Since the 1970s, millions of people have fled Afghanistan for Iran and Pakistan, due to several reasons. The Afghan migrants have complained that in both countries, they have faced systematic discrimination and violence.According to UN human rights officials, over two million people have returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan since the start of the year, including more than 1.8 million from Iran and almost 400,000 from Pakistan.However, the authorities in Iran and Pakistan denied that they are specifically targeting Afghans.&nbsp;

In the tragic accident, 17 children died, who were mostly on board the bus as they were returning from Iran. The official said that the car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus. 

A tragic bus crash in western Afghanistan killed at least 79 people, including 17 children. The bus was carrying Afghan migrants deported from Iran, the BBC reported, citing a Taliban interior ministry spokesperson. Most of the people killed, were on the bus, which was en route to Kabul. The bus was travelling from Iran to the Afghan capital on late Tuesday, when it collided with a motorbike and another vehicle in the western province of Herat near the Iranian border, a senior Afghan government official, Ahmadullah Muttaqi said. “The car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus, fully loaded with passengers,” he said. He added, “The bus also caught fire and the majority of people on the bus died of burn injuries.” "All the passengers were migrants who had boarded the vehicle in Islam Qala," provincial governor spokesman Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi told news agency AFP, referring to a town near the Afghanistan–Iran border. According to the Herat police, the accident happened because of the bus driver's "excessive speed and negligence." Muttaqi also said that these Afghan refugees were returning home after spending a long time in Iran, but they could not reach their destination as their bus met with a tragic accident. These Afghan migrants are among hundreds of thousands of Afghans who have returned in the last months from Iran and Pakistan, after the announcement of a crackdown in October 2024, claiming that they were living illegally. Since the 1970s, millions of people have fled Afghanistan for Iran and Pakistan, due to several reasons. The Afghan migrants have complained that in both countries, they have faced systematic discrimination and violence. According to UN human rights officials, over two million people have returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan since the start of the year, including more than 1.8 million from Iran and almost 400,000 from Pakistan. However, the authorities in Iran and Pakistan denied that they are specifically targeting Afghans.

In the tragic accident, 17 children died, who were mostly on board the bus as they were returning from Iran. The official said that the car was carrying fuel and it caught fire after a head-on collision with the bus.&nbsp;

At least 79 Afghan deportees from Iran killed in deadly accident after bus blasts into flames

Iran-backed Houthis Claim Responsibility for Ballistic Missile Attack on Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport.


Houthis claim Fresh Strikes on Israeli Airport 

Iraqi authorities have commenced the excavation of mass graves south of Mosul, uncovering victims of ISIL atrocities. The efforts aim to identify the deceased and provide closure for families affected by the terror group’s brutal occupation.

Iraq Begins Mass Grave Excavation from ISIL Carnage Near Mosul 

Prime Minister Netanyahu warns that Iran has amassed sufficient enriched uranium for multiple nuclear bombs, raising fears of a potential new conflict in the region.


Netanyahu warns Iran has enough enriched uranium for bombs 

Iran has witnessed a string of mysterious fires and explosions for more than two weeks, raising suspicions among Iranians. Apartment complexes, oil refineries, a road near a major airport, as well as a shoe factory, were set ablaze, creating panic among people. All this comes just over a month after the Israel-Iran war ended with several casualties.&nbsp;Publicly, the Iranian officials have tried to play down the events, calling them mere coincidence, and have blamed the aging infrastructure for it.&nbsp;However, in private, three Iranian officials, including a member of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), told The New York Times that they believed that many of these incidents were acts of sabotage.&nbsp;The officials have been pointing at Israel as it has a history of covert operations in Iran, including explosions and blasts. Moreover, Iran also does not want to “corner itself into having to retaliate against Israel.”<h2>Series of blasts</h2>There were several explosions and blasts in Iran in the last two weeks, which included a blaze in northeast Iran near Mashhad International Airport, which authorities said was “controlled burning of weeds“.&nbsp;The authorities blamed the worn-out infrastructure for the gas explosions.&nbsp;Moreover, a European official who deals with Iran, told the New York Times that he assessed the attacks as "sabotage" and suspected Israel to be behind it. According to the official, Israel could be using such attacks as a "psychological warfare and to take out targets.”&nbsp;However, Israel has not reacted to it. Moreover, Iranian officials also hesitated to publicly blame Israel for the blasts. In June, according to a local newspaper, Mossad chief David Barnea said, “We will continue to keep a close watch on every project in Iran, which we know thoroughly. We will be there, just as we have been up until now.”

There have been a series of gas explosions and fires in Iran for more than two weeks now, with Iranian officials publicly blaming the aging infrastructure for it. Meanwhile, three Iranian officials, anonymously, hinted that these incidents were acts of sabotage.

Iran has witnessed a string of mysterious fires and explosions for more than two weeks, raising suspicions among Iranians. Apartment complexes, oil refineries, a road near a major airport, as well as a shoe factory, were set ablaze, creating panic among people. All this comes just over a month after the Israel-Iran war ended with several casualties. Publicly, the Iranian officials have tried to play down the events, calling them mere coincidence, and have blamed the aging infrastructure for it. However, in private, three Iranian officials, including a member of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), told The New York Times that they believed that many of these incidents were acts of sabotage. The officials have been pointing at Israel as it has a history of covert operations in Iran, including explosions and blasts. Moreover, Iran also does not want to “corner itself into having to retaliate against Israel.” Series of blasts There were several explosions and blasts in Iran in the last two weeks, which included a blaze in northeast Iran near Mashhad International Airport, which authorities said was “controlled burning of weeds“. The authorities blamed the worn-out infrastructure for the gas explosions. Moreover, a European official who deals with Iran, told the New York Times that he assessed the attacks as "sabotage" and suspected Israel to be behind it. According to the official, Israel could be using such attacks as a "psychological warfare and to take out targets.” However, Israel has not reacted to it. Moreover, Iranian officials also hesitated to publicly blame Israel for the blasts. In June, according to a local newspaper, Mossad chief David Barnea said, “We will continue to keep a close watch on every project in Iran, which we know thoroughly. We will be there, just as we have been up until now.”

There have been a series of gas explosions and fires in Iran for more than two weeks now, with Iranian officials publicly blaming the aging infrastructure for it. Meanwhile, three Iranian officials, anonymously, hinted that these incidents were acts of sabotage.

Acts of sabotage or mere coincidence? Mysterious fires and explosions in Iran raise suspicions - Here's what officials suspect

As the United States dropped 14 bunker buster bombs deployed on the 'B-2 stealth bombers' on Iran's nuclear facilities during the 12-day Israel-Iran war, a former Vietnam War refugee Anh Duong looked at the weapon's technical details as she sensed a familiarity.Duong, 65, who escaped Saigon and found a home in the US, decided to return to the nation that gave her shelter. A month after the September 11 attacks, she got the chance when she became the leader of a team of US military scientists. That team created an explosive in the same family as the bunker buster.The BLU-118/B, a laser-guided bomb, was designed to travel deep into confined spaces like the underground tunnels occupied by Al Qaeda in Afghanistan.The BLU is an acronym for Bomb Live Unit, and not "Big, Loud and Ugly, which is maybe what the soldiers say", Duong said in an interview.The bomb was developed in a way that it produces a high-temperature and sustained blast, "so that our guys would not have to flush out these hills or caves by foot," Duong said.BLU-118/B, the weapon created by the Navy's 'Bomb Lady', was used several times in Afghanistan. Moreover, her team was credited by everyone for ending America's longest war soon.<h2>How B-2 bombers came in picture?</h2>Before designing the BLU-118/B, Duong and her team were working on a new generation of "high-performance, insensitive explosives, that could take the ride and abuse" of penetrating through the layers or rock before the explosion.According to a New York Times report, these high-performance explosives were part of the explosives packed into the bunker buster, the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, that was used by the US in Iran to hit its nuclear facilities including Isfahan, Natanz and Fordow.Talking about the extent of the damage caused by the bombs, Duong said that the extent cannot be measured by the US, Israel, or Iran.“Think about it. You went in and bombed an underground nuclear facility. It’s not safe to send anyone into that facility. I suspect it will be a long time before any real, in-person assessment can be done," she said.Further lauding the teamwork, she said, "Explosives developers are a small community. We know one another and we collaborate a lot. It was not just my work individually. Everything is teamwork.”She said that she doesn't remember who nicknamed her "the Bomb Lady", but she became known among Vietnamese emigres in the US and globally.&nbsp;

Duong escaped Saigon and found a home in the US, and decided to return to the nation that gave her home. Month after the 9/11 attacks, she got the chance when she became the leader of a team of US military scientists. Their team created an explosive in same family as the bunker buster. 

As the United States dropped 14 bunker buster bombs deployed on the 'B-2 stealth bombers' on Iran's nuclear facilities during the 12-day Israel-Iran war, a former Vietnam War refugee Anh Duong looked at the weapon's technical details as she sensed a familiarity. Duong, 65, who escaped Saigon and found a home in the US, decided to return to the nation that gave her shelter. A month after the September 11 attacks, she got the chance when she became the leader of a team of US military scientists. That team created an explosive in the same family as the bunker buster. The BLU-118/B, a laser-guided bomb, was designed to travel deep into confined spaces like the underground tunnels occupied by Al Qaeda in Afghanistan. The BLU is an acronym for Bomb Live Unit, and not "Big, Loud and Ugly, which is maybe what the soldiers say", Duong said in an interview. The bomb was developed in a way that it produces a high-temperature and sustained blast, "so that our guys would not have to flush out these hills or caves by foot," Duong said. BLU-118/B, the weapon created by the Navy's 'Bomb Lady', was used several times in Afghanistan. Moreover, her team was credited by everyone for ending America's longest war soon. How B-2 bombers came in picture? Before designing the BLU-118/B, Duong and her team were working on a new generation of "high-performance, insensitive explosives, that could take the ride and abuse" of penetrating through the layers or rock before the explosion. According to a New York Times report, these high-performance explosives were part of the explosives packed into the bunker buster, the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, that was used by the US in Iran to hit its nuclear facilities including Isfahan, Natanz and Fordow. Talking about the extent of the damage caused by the bombs, Duong said that the extent cannot be measured by the US, Israel, or Iran. “Think about it. You went in and bombed an underground nuclear facility. It’s not safe to send anyone into that facility. I suspect it will be a long time before any real, in-person assessment can be done," she said. Further lauding the teamwork, she said, "Explosives developers are a small community. We know one another and we collaborate a lot. It was not just my work individually. Everything is teamwork.” She said that she doesn't remember who nicknamed her "the Bomb Lady", but she became known among Vietnamese emigres in the US and globally.

Duong escaped Saigon and found a home in the US, and decided to return to the nation that gave her home. Month after the 9/11 attacks, she got the chance when she became the leader of a team of US military scientists. Their team created an explosive in same family as the bunker buster.&nbsp;

The Bomb Lady: Woman who made 'Bunker Buster' bombs possible—Used by US to strike Iran's nuclear facilities

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jul 7) said that he would like to lift the US sanctions imposed on Iran but added that this could only be done "at the right time". The POTUS also revealed that Washington was scheduled to hold talks with Tehran, claiming, "they want to talk". Trump made the statement as he hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a dinner at the White House. When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that".<h2>Impending Iran-US talks</h2>According to Donald Trump, Iran has "requested a meeting" as "they want to talk". The POTUS said that it'll be "good" if a deal can be signed as a result of the talks. “If we can put something down on paper, that will be fine. It'll be good," he said, adding, "We'll see what happens." Meanwhile, Trump's Middle East envoy has said that the meeting could happen in the "next week or so".When asked if there was something that could make him "have the desire" to carry out fresh strikes on Iran, Trump coyly replied, "we're not going to have to do that. I can't imagine wanting to do that". However, it must be noted that he did not dismiss the possibility that the US could strike Iran in the future. "I can't imagine them wanting to do that. They want to meet...they want to work something out," he added, as reported by the Anadolu news agency.<h2>Will Trump lift Iran sanctions?</h2>When asked about US-imposed sanctions on Tehran, Trump said that Iran was "very different now" than it was two weeks ago – before the US carried out "Operation Midnight Hammer", striking Iranian nuclear sites. "I hope it's over. Yeah, I think Iran wants to meet. I think they want to make peace, and I'm all for it," he added.Referring to the US lifting Syrian sanctions, he said that the decision was taken at the request of many countries in the Middle East, adding that the US wanted "to give them (Syria) a chance". He then said, similarly, he would like to remove the tough "biting" sanctions the US has imposed on Iran, but "at the right time". "I would love to be able to, at the right time, take those sanctions off (Iran), give them a chance at rebuilding, because I'd like to see Iran build itself back up in a peaceful manner and not going around saying, 'Death to America,' 'Death to the USA,' 'Death to Israel,' as they were doing," he said.&nbsp;

When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that".

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jul 7) said that he would like to lift the US sanctions imposed on Iran but added that this could only be done "at the right time". The POTUS also revealed that Washington was scheduled to hold talks with Tehran, claiming, "they want to talk". Trump made the statement as he hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for a dinner at the White House. When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that". Impending Iran-US talks According to Donald Trump, Iran has "requested a meeting" as "they want to talk". The POTUS said that it'll be "good" if a deal can be signed as a result of the talks. “If we can put something down on paper, that will be fine. It'll be good," he said, adding, "We'll see what happens." Meanwhile, Trump's Middle East envoy has said that the meeting could happen in the "next week or so". When asked if there was something that could make him "have the desire" to carry out fresh strikes on Iran, Trump coyly replied, "we're not going to have to do that. I can't imagine wanting to do that". However, it must be noted that he did not dismiss the possibility that the US could strike Iran in the future. "I can't imagine them wanting to do that. They want to meet...they want to work something out," he added, as reported by the Anadolu news agency. Will Trump lift Iran sanctions? When asked about US-imposed sanctions on Tehran, Trump said that Iran was "very different now" than it was two weeks ago – before the US carried out "Operation Midnight Hammer", striking Iranian nuclear sites. "I hope it's over. Yeah, I think Iran wants to meet. I think they want to make peace, and I'm all for it," he added. Referring to the US lifting Syrian sanctions, he said that the decision was taken at the request of many countries in the Middle East, adding that the US wanted "to give them (Syria) a chance". He then said, similarly, he would like to remove the tough "biting" sanctions the US has imposed on Iran, but "at the right time". "I would love to be able to, at the right time, take those sanctions off (Iran), give them a chance at rebuilding, because I'd like to see Iran build itself back up in a peaceful manner and not going around saying, 'Death to America,' 'Death to the USA,' 'Death to Israel,' as they were doing," he said.

When asked about the probability of the US carrying out another strike on Iran, Trump did not dismiss the possibility but said, "We're not going to have to do that".

Trump open to lifting Iran sanctions 'at the right time,' doesn't rule out future strikes

Before launching its missile barrage and a brutal war against Israel, Iran built up a secret espionage network inside the country, made up of more than 30 Israeli citizens, many of whom were approached with offers of money through anonymous messages on Telegram, The Guardian reported. The extent of Tehran’s network has shocked Israeli officials, even as it failed in its aim to assassinate high-profile Israeli figures.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-how-israel-built-nuclear-weapons-and-kept-them-a-secret-for-decades-the-elaborate-deception-that-fooled-the-us-and-world-1750271364381">How Israel built nuclear weapons and kept them a secret for decades? The elaborate deception that fooled the&nbsp;US&nbsp;and&nbsp;world</a><h2>How it started: Anonymous texts and crypto payments</h2>The campaign began with a message from accounts like “news agency” or “Tehran-Quds”, asking recipients for war-related information in exchange for payment. Some messages openly referenced Muslim solidarity and came with links to continue the conversation via Telegram, where users were offered small sums to perform low-risk errands.Once initial trust was established, recipients were asked to install apps for PayPal and cryptocurrency transactions. Rewards increased with each completed task. One suspect earned nearly $1,000 just for checking if a black bag had been buried in a local park. There was no bag, but he sent a video to prove it and was given more tasks, handing out leaflets, putting up graffiti against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and eventually photographing military sites.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-how-did-iran-get-american-f-14-tomcats-fighter-jet-and-why-is-it-still-flying-them-years-after-us-retired-them-1750260034881">How did Iran get American F-14 'Tomcats' fighter jet, and why is it still flying them years after US&nbsp;retired&nbsp;them?</a><h2>Photos helped guide Iranian missile strikes</h2>A key focus of the spy network was to gather images of sensitive locations. As per the Guardian report, one Israeli of Azeri descent allegedly turned it into a family operation, collecting images of the Nevatim airbase, the Glilot military intelligence HQ, and Iron Dome batteries. He also sent images of the Weizmann Institute, Israel’s premier research centre, which Iran later struck during its 12-day war with Israel.<h2>The $60,000 offer to kill a nuclear scientist</h2>After sending photos of a nuclear scientist’s home, one recruit was offered $60,000 to kill the scientist and his family. He allegedly assembled a hit squad of four Palestinian Israeli men, but they failed to get past the security gate at the Weizmann Institute. Days later, he returned alone to take more photos and was paid $709. He was also asked to plant a GPS tracker on the scientist’s car, but refused.<h2>Iran’s “spray and pray” strategy</h2>Yossi Melman, an Israeli intelligence expert, told Guardian Shin Bet officials described Iran’s method as a “spray-and-pray” approach, focusing on a wide base of low-level recruits in hopes that some might evolve into long-term agents. Many of the accused carried out minor tasks but backed out when asked to cross the line into violence. As a result, Israel’s security services were able to expose the network before it could inflict serious damage. Only one person has been convicted so far from the wave of espionage arrests.<h2>Million-dollar murder-for-hire: The case of Moti Maman</h2>Mordechai “Moti” Maman, 72, is among the most high-profile names from the investigations. Maman was lured into Iran via Turkey under the guise of a business opportunity in dried fruit. Inside Iran, he was offered thousands of dollars to leave guns or money in Israel, take photos of crowded public areas, and deliver threats to other agents. Later, the Iranians raised the stakes, offering $150,000 to kill Netanyahu, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, or Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.According to prosecutors, Maman offered to arrange the job through underworld contacts but demanded $1 million. The Iranians changed their demand, offering $400,000 to kill former PM Naftali Bennett instead. Talks collapsed, and Maman was eventually arrested in Tel Aviv. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison for unauthorised entry into an enemy state and contact with a foreign agent. His lawyer claims he only pretended to go along with the plan out of fear and had no idea he was entering Iran during the initial trip.

The campaign began with a message from accounts like “news agency” or “Tehran-Quds”, asking recipients for war-related information in exchange for payment. Once initial trust was established, recipients were asked to install apps for PayPal and cryptocurrency transactions.

Before launching its missile barrage and a brutal war against Israel, Iran built up a secret espionage network inside the country, made up of more than 30 Israeli citizens, many of whom were approached with offers of money through anonymous messages on Telegram, The Guardian reported. The extent of Tehran’s network has shocked Israeli officials, even as it failed in its aim to assassinate high-profile Israeli figures. Also read: How Israel built nuclear weapons and kept them a secret for decades? The elaborate deception that fooled the US and world How it started: Anonymous texts and crypto payments The campaign began with a message from accounts like “news agency” or “Tehran-Quds”, asking recipients for war-related information in exchange for payment. Some messages openly referenced Muslim solidarity and came with links to continue the conversation via Telegram, where users were offered small sums to perform low-risk errands. Once initial trust was established, recipients were asked to install apps for PayPal and cryptocurrency transactions. Rewards increased with each completed task. One suspect earned nearly $1,000 just for checking if a black bag had been buried in a local park. There was no bag, but he sent a video to prove it and was given more tasks, handing out leaflets, putting up graffiti against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and eventually photographing military sites. Also read: How did Iran get American F-14 'Tomcats' fighter jet, and why is it still flying them years after US retired them? Photos helped guide Iranian missile strikes A key focus of the spy network was to gather images of sensitive locations. As per the Guardian report, one Israeli of Azeri descent allegedly turned it into a family operation, collecting images of the Nevatim airbase, the Glilot military intelligence HQ, and Iron Dome batteries. He also sent images of the Weizmann Institute, Israel’s premier research centre, which Iran later struck during its 12-day war with Israel. The $60,000 offer to kill a nuclear scientist After sending photos of a nuclear scientist’s home, one recruit was offered $60,000 to kill the scientist and his family. He allegedly assembled a hit squad of four Palestinian Israeli men, but they failed to get past the security gate at the Weizmann Institute. Days later, he returned alone to take more photos and was paid $709. He was also asked to plant a GPS tracker on the scientist’s car, but refused. Iran’s “spray and pray” strategy Yossi Melman, an Israeli intelligence expert, told Guardian Shin Bet officials described Iran’s method as a “spray-and-pray” approach, focusing on a wide base of low-level recruits in hopes that some might evolve into long-term agents. Many of the accused carried out minor tasks but backed out when asked to cross the line into violence. As a result, Israel’s security services were able to expose the network before it could inflict serious damage. Only one person has been convicted so far from the wave of espionage arrests. Million-dollar murder-for-hire: The case of Moti Maman Mordechai “Moti” Maman, 72, is among the most high-profile names from the investigations. Maman was lured into Iran via Turkey under the guise of a business opportunity in dried fruit. Inside Iran, he was offered thousands of dollars to leave guns or money in Israel, take photos of crowded public areas, and deliver threats to other agents. Later, the Iranians raised the stakes, offering $150,000 to kill Netanyahu, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar, or Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. According to prosecutors, Maman offered to arrange the job through underworld contacts but demanded $1 million. The Iranians changed their demand, offering $400,000 to kill former PM Naftali Bennett instead. Talks collapsed, and Maman was eventually arrested in Tel Aviv. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison for unauthorised entry into an enemy state and contact with a foreign agent. His lawyer claims he only pretended to go along with the plan out of fear and had no idea he was entering Iran during the initial trip.

The campaign began with a message from accounts like “news agency” or “Tehran-Quds”, asking recipients for war-related information in exchange for payment. Once initial trust was established, recipients were asked to install apps for PayPal and cryptocurrency transactions.

'$60,000 to kill a scientist, $150,000 for Netanyahu': Inside Iran’s failed spy network in Israel — How did it operate?

The US B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, which were on a mission to attack Iran's nuclear facilities last month, were supposed to return from there. However, one group of the B-2 Spirit stealth bombers has not returned to the base reportedly, raising mysteries about its whereabouts.Two distinct groups of B-2 bombers were launched from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri on June 21, according to an EurAsian Times report.One formation flew eastward and directly targeted Iran’s fortified nuclear sites at Fordow and Natanz. A second formation flew westward over the Pacific Ocean, reportedly as a decoy mission with a motive to create confusion in Iranian air defenses.The strike team of the B-2s completed a non-stop 37-hour round mission and returned safely, but details about the decoy group remain insignificant.Reportedly, at least one aircraft from that group was forced to make an emergency landing in Hawaii. The bomber reportedly touched down at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, which shares runways with Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu.A video went viral, showing an aircraft, which further added to the mystery surrounding its condition. However, the US has not released any details on this so far.Similar incidentsThis is not the first time such an incident has happened. In April 2023, a B-2 made an emergency landing at Hickam, prompting the temporary grounding of the entire B-2 fleet after a separate crash in Missouri in 2022.The aircraft remained in Hawaii back then, for weeks, and was then cleared later.In another incident, a B-2 had to be transported to Northrop Grumman's facility in Palmdale, California as it was being repaired in 2021.There are several things that make B-2 Spirit stealth bombers unique. Its unique shape allows for quiet, fast and fuel-efficient flight, which also makes it expensive.Another shocking revelation about the B-2 bombers is that these billion-dollar stealth bombers are not just designed to defeat the world's most advanced air bases, but also to keep the two-person crew functioning and at ease while operating it, as the mission lasts up to two days.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The strike team of the B-2s completed a non-stop 37-hour round mission and returned safely, but details about the decoy group remain insignificant.

The US B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, which were on a mission to attack Iran's nuclear facilities last month, were supposed to return from there. However, one group of the B-2 Spirit stealth bombers has not returned to the base reportedly, raising mysteries about its whereabouts. Two distinct groups of B-2 bombers were launched from Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri on June 21, according to an EurAsian Times report. One formation flew eastward and directly targeted Iran’s fortified nuclear sites at Fordow and Natanz. A second formation flew westward over the Pacific Ocean, reportedly as a decoy mission with a motive to create confusion in Iranian air defenses. The strike team of the B-2s completed a non-stop 37-hour round mission and returned safely, but details about the decoy group remain insignificant. Reportedly, at least one aircraft from that group was forced to make an emergency landing in Hawaii. The bomber reportedly touched down at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, which shares runways with Hickam Air Force Base in Honolulu. A video went viral, showing an aircraft, which further added to the mystery surrounding its condition. However, the US has not released any details on this so far. Similar incidents This is not the first time such an incident has happened. In April 2023, a B-2 made an emergency landing at Hickam, prompting the temporary grounding of the entire B-2 fleet after a separate crash in Missouri in 2022. The aircraft remained in Hawaii back then, for weeks, and was then cleared later. In another incident, a B-2 had to be transported to Northrop Grumman's facility in Palmdale, California as it was being repaired in 2021. There are several things that make B-2 Spirit stealth bombers unique. Its unique shape allows for quiet, fast and fuel-efficient flight, which also makes it expensive. Another shocking revelation about the B-2 bombers is that these billion-dollar stealth bombers are not just designed to defeat the world's most advanced air bases, but also to keep the two-person crew functioning and at ease while operating it, as the mission lasts up to two days.

The strike team of the B-2s completed a non-stop 37-hour round mission and returned safely, but details about the decoy group remain insignificant.

B-2 bomber vanishes? Where is US stealth bomber that hit Iran nuclear facilities - Here's the mystery

A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA.In a post on X, Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council."Fake news. Iran remains committed to the NPT and its Safeguards Agreement. In accordance with the new legislation by Majlis, sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the U.S., our cooperation with @iaeaorg will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council for obvious safety and security reasons," he wrote.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Fake news. Iran remains committed to the NPT and its Safeguards Agreement. In accordance with the new legislation by Majlis, sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the U.S., our cooperation with <a href="https://twitter.com/iaeaorg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iaeaorg</a> will be channeled through Iran&#39;s… <a href="https://t.co/i1995s6Z6m">https://t.co/i1995s6Z6m</a>&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/1940751516115083395?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This comes a day after state media reported that Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has granted final approval to a law to suspend cooperation with the IAEA. "Masoud Pezeshkian promulgated the law suspending cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency," state TV said.This further follows after the recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities including Esfahan, Fordow, and Natanz, during its 12-day war with Iran.The Iranian foreign minister in his post stressed that the "reality" is, "To Iranians, &nbsp;what truly "sends a devastating message" and destroys "a diplomatic solution" is very obvious."Targeting Germany for its support to Israel during the war, Araghchi continued, "Germany's explicit support for Israel's unlawful attack on Iran, including safeguarded nuclear sites, as "dirty work" carried out on behalf of the West.He added that Germany also shamefully supported the unlawful US attack against Iranian nuclear facilities, which "violated international law, the NPT, and the UN Charter."The foreign minister continued, "Germany's repudiation of its JCPOA commitments by openly demanding "zero enrichment" in Iran."Araghchi responded to the German Foreign Office's post which they shared on Wednesday, stating, "Iran's decision to suspend cooperation with @iaeaorg sends a devastating message: it eliminates any possibility of international oversight of the Iranian nuclear program, which is crucial for a diplomatic solution. #Iran must reverse this decision."Araghchi lambasted that Iranians were already put off by "Germany's Nazi-style backing of Genocide in Gaza, and its support for Sadam’s war on Iran" by providing materials for chemical weapons.He continued to slam Germany for supporting Iran, and said that the explicit German support for the bombing of Iran has "obliterated the notion that the German regime harbors anything but malice towards Iranians."

In a post on X, Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

A day after reports of Iran suspending cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi called it "fake news", saying that Tehran remains committed to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and has not ended cooperation with the IAEA. In a post on X, Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council. "Fake news. Iran remains committed to the NPT and its Safeguards Agreement. In accordance with the new legislation by Majlis, sparked by the unlawful attacks against our nuclear facilities by Israel and the U.S., our cooperation with @iaeaorg will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council for obvious safety and security reasons," he wrote.

In a post on X, Iran's Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that Iran's cooperation with IAEA will be channeled through Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

'Fake news': Iran denies ending cooperation with IAEA, lashes out at Germany for supporting Israel and US

An Israeli man was arrested in April for being an alleged spy for Iran, who placed powerful explosives somewhere near the home of Israel Defence Minister Israel Katz, as part of an "Iranian plot to assassinate" the minister, according to a Channel 12 report.The man was identified as 24-year-old Roy Mizrahi. He has been charged with "aiding the enemy at a time of war."According to the report, the explosives were intended to explode when Katz closes by, adding that the Iranians were quite close to succeeding in their plan. However, it didn't happen.The Channel 12 report did not mention how close the explosives were placed to Katz home, nor that the explosives were primed to detonate, indicating that Mizrahi’s action was not the final stage in the plot.It further shed light on how Mizrahi was recruited. The alleged spy was hired via a Telegram site and roped in a friend, Almog Attias. Initially, they filmed various locations, including the Shin Bet headquarters and the Azrieli Towers in Tel Aviv for an Iranian agent named Alex.The boys were then asked to place two spy cameras in Katz's hometown Kfar Ahim, located in southern-central Israel. They collected the cameras from a home in Holon and went to install them, but were frightened when a security vehicle with lights flashing drove by.Moreover, Mizrahi was asked to kill a scientist at the Weizmann Institute for a payment of $1 million, however, he refused to do so. This happened as Alex refused to pay him half the sum in advance.Later, Mizrahi was contacted by another Iranian agent, identified as Getz. He ordered him to place the explosives near Katz's home.He said that he was paid in cryptocurrency for the job done, adding that he also took a brick of explosives home himself.Notably, as per the report, it was one of the several plots planned by Iran to target Israeli officials.

According to the report, the explosives were intended to explode when Katz closes by, adding that the Iranians were quite close to succeeding in their plan. However, it didn't happen.

An Israeli man was arrested in April for being an alleged spy for Iran, who placed powerful explosives somewhere near the home of Israel Defence Minister Israel Katz, as part of an "Iranian plot to assassinate" the minister, according to a Channel 12 report. The man was identified as 24-year-old Roy Mizrahi. He has been charged with "aiding the enemy at a time of war." According to the report, the explosives were intended to explode when Katz closes by, adding that the Iranians were quite close to succeeding in their plan. However, it didn't happen. The Channel 12 report did not mention how close the explosives were placed to Katz home, nor that the explosives were primed to detonate, indicating that Mizrahi’s action was not the final stage in the plot. It further shed light on how Mizrahi was recruited. The alleged spy was hired via a Telegram site and roped in a friend, Almog Attias. Initially, they filmed various locations, including the Shin Bet headquarters and the Azrieli Towers in Tel Aviv for an Iranian agent named Alex. The boys were then asked to place two spy cameras in Katz's hometown Kfar Ahim, located in southern-central Israel. They collected the cameras from a home in Holon and went to install them, but were frightened when a security vehicle with lights flashing drove by. Moreover, Mizrahi was asked to kill a scientist at the Weizmann Institute for a payment of $1 million, however, he refused to do so. This happened as Alex refused to pay him half the sum in advance. Later, Mizrahi was contacted by another Iranian agent, identified as Getz. He ordered him to place the explosives near Katz's home. He said that he was paid in cryptocurrency for the job done, adding that he also took a brick of explosives home himself. Notably, as per the report, it was one of the several plots planned by Iran to target Israeli officials.

According to the report, the explosives were intended to explode when Katz closes by, adding that the Iranians were quite close to succeeding in their plan. However, it didn't happen.

Move to ASSASSINATE Israel defence minister? Alleged Iranian spy put explosives near Katz home - Here's what happened next

Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations has said Tehran is now open to a possible nuclear agreement that would involve transferring its stockpile of highly enriched uranium out of the country. In return, Iran would receive shipments of yellowcake, a concentrated uranium powder used in nuclear fuel production.The comments from Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani, shared in a written interview with Al-Monitor, mark Iran’s most detailed statement on its nuclear programme since the end of a 12-day conflict involving US and Israeli strikes on its nuclear sites.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khamenei-left-out-of-iran-israel-ceasefire-report-claims-tehran-agreed-to-trump-s-offer-without-consulting-supreme-leader-1751113614134">Khamenei left out? Iran agreed to ceasefire without consulting Supreme Leader</a>“We would be prepared to transfer our stockpiles of 60% and 20% enriched uranium to another country and have them transferred out of Iranian territory in return for receiving yellowcake,” Iravani said.<h2>What is yellowcake and why does it matter?</h2>Yellowcake is a type of uranium concentrate powder with the chemical formula U₃O₈. It is produced through the chemical processing of uranium ore and contains around 80% of uranium oxide. Though it cannot be used directly as nuclear fuel or in weapons, it is a crucial intermediate in the nuclear fuel cycle.The powder is typically converted into uranium dioxide (UO₂) or uranium hexafluoride (UF₆), depending on whether it is being prepared for civilian energy use or further enrichment.<h2>Why is it called yellowcake?</h2>The term “yellowcake” comes from the early appearance of the product during uranium extraction, where it often took on a yellow colour due to the presence of ammonium diuranate. Today, depending on the extraction and purification methods used, the powder can appear yellow, brown, or even black.<h2>How is yellowcake used?</h2>Yellowcake plays an essential role in nuclear energy production. Once it is processed into uranium dioxide, it can be used in fuel rods for nuclear reactors, particularly those that run on natural or unenriched uranium.Alternatively, yellowcake can be converted into uranium hexafluoride gas and then enriched to produce fuel for reactors that require a higher concentration of the fissile isotope uranium-235 (U-235).<h2>Can yellowcake be used in nuclear weapons?</h2>Yellowcake is not a weapons-grade material in its raw form. However, it can be further processed to produce highly enriched uranium, which is required to make nuclear weapons.The steps toward weaponisation include:• Conversion: Changing yellowcake into uranium hexafluoride (UF₆) gas.• Enrichment: Increasing the proportion of U-235 to over 90% for weapons-grade material.• Fabrication: Turning enriched uranium into components for nuclear weapons.Due to its potential role in weapons development, yellowcake is strictly monitored under international treaties like the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations has said Tehran is now open to a possible nuclear agreement that would involve transferring its stockpile of highly enriched uranium out of the country. 

Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations has said Tehran is now open to a possible nuclear agreement that would involve transferring its stockpile of highly enriched uranium out of the country. In return, Iran would receive shipments of yellowcake, a concentrated uranium powder used in nuclear fuel production. The comments from Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani, shared in a written interview with Al-Monitor, mark Iran’s most detailed statement on its nuclear programme since the end of a 12-day conflict involving US and Israeli strikes on its nuclear sites. Also read: Khamenei left out? Iran agreed to ceasefire without consulting Supreme Leader “We would be prepared to transfer our stockpiles of 60% and 20% enriched uranium to another country and have them transferred out of Iranian territory in return for receiving yellowcake,” Iravani said. What is yellowcake and why does it matter? Yellowcake is a type of uranium concentrate powder with the chemical formula U₃O₈. It is produced through the chemical processing of uranium ore and contains around 80% of uranium oxide. Though it cannot be used directly as nuclear fuel or in weapons, it is a crucial intermediate in the nuclear fuel cycle. The powder is typically converted into uranium dioxide (UO₂) or uranium hexafluoride (UF₆), depending on whether it is being prepared for civilian energy use or further enrichment. Why is it called yellowcake? The term “yellowcake” comes from the early appearance of the product during uranium extraction, where it often took on a yellow colour due to the presence of ammonium diuranate. Today, depending on the extraction and purification methods used, the powder can appear yellow, brown, or even black. How is yellowcake used? Yellowcake plays an essential role in nuclear energy production. Once it is processed into uranium dioxide, it can be used in fuel rods for nuclear reactors, particularly those that run on natural or unenriched uranium. Alternatively, yellowcake can be converted into uranium hexafluoride gas and then enriched to produce fuel for reactors that require a higher concentration of the fissile isotope uranium-235 (U-235). Can yellowcake be used in nuclear weapons? Yellowcake is not a weapons-grade material in its raw form. However, it can be further processed to produce highly enriched uranium, which is required to make nuclear weapons. The steps toward weaponisation include: • Conversion: Changing yellowcake into uranium hexafluoride (UF₆) gas. • Enrichment: Increasing the proportion of U-235 to over 90% for weapons-grade material. • Fabrication: Turning enriched uranium into components for nuclear weapons. Due to its potential role in weapons development, yellowcake is strictly monitored under international treaties like the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations has said Tehran is now open to a possible nuclear agreement that would involve transferring its stockpile of highly enriched uranium out of the country.

Iran ready to trade enriched uranium for THIS substance: What is Yellowcake? Can it be used to make nuclear weapons?

In a brutal incident at Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow, an 18-month-old Iranian toddler was left in a coma after a tourist headfirst the boy onto the floor. The child had fled conflict in Iran with his pregnant mother via Afghanistan and had just arrived in Russia.The suspect, identified as a 31-year-old Belarusian man, was caught on CCTV footage in the arrivals hall where he was found slamming the child to the ground. The assault occurred just few meters away from the child's mother.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A Jewish, Zionist Belarusian man, Vladimir Vitkov, violently assaulted an 18-month-old Iranian toddler at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo Airport, slamming him headfirst onto the floor. The child is now in a coma with skull and spinal injuries. <a href="https://t.co/2gC3raqFwJ">https://t.co/2gC3raqFwJ</a>&mdash; Dr. Anastasia Maria Loupis (@DrLoupis__) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrLoupis__/status/1937854011920515207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The child sustained severe skull fractures and spinal injury after the assault. The footage revealed that the accused, Vladimir Vitkov, was glancing around before slamming the child to the ground. Concerned authorities at the airport immediately rushed the child to a local hospital.Following the horrific incident, the accused, Vitkov, has been detained by the authorities and was reportedly found under 'drug influence' at the time. According to the reports, cannabis was found in Vitkov's bloodstream.Russian officials are undergoing investigations into the case. The officials are probing the potential motives of racial hatred and drug influence behind the assault.The inhumane incident has sparked global outrage targeting concerns related to refugee safety and airport security. The child is identified to be of Afghan nationality.The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan is closely monitoring the incident. The Ministry has assigned the Afghan Embassy in Moscow to look into the matter through all diplomatic and legal channels.During a visit to the injured child in Moscow, Hafiz Abdullah Yasir, chief of the Afghan mission in Russia and senior counsellor of the I.A.A &nbsp;embassy assured the child's family of comprehensive cooperation. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also provided financial assistance to the child's family. &nbsp;In addition, the Ministry urges the Russian Federation to effectively monitor the case and ensure strict punishment for the perpetrator in the case.

The child sustained severe skull fractures and spinal injury after the assault. The footage revealed that the accused, Vladimir Vitkov, was glancing around before slamming the child to the ground.

In a brutal incident at Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow, an 18-month-old Iranian toddler was left in a coma after a tourist headfirst the boy onto the floor. The child had fled conflict in Iran with his pregnant mother via Afghanistan and had just arrived in Russia. The suspect, identified as a 31-year-old Belarusian man, was caught on CCTV footage in the arrivals hall where he was found slamming the child to the ground. The assault occurred just few meters away from the child's mother.

The child sustained severe skull fractures and spinal injury after the assault. The footage revealed that the accused, Vladimir Vitkov, was glancing around before slamming the child to the ground.

Iranian refugee toddler in coma after man slams him on floor at Moscow Airport - Video

The US bunker-buster bombs deployed through B-2 stealth bombers attacked three Iranian nuclear facilities last weekend amid the Israel-Iran war, but shockingly, the United States was the one that provided Tehran with the seeds of nuclear technology. It all goes back to the 1960s, the US shipped the Tehran Research Reactor to Iran, as part of the “Atoms for Peace” program.First, the US did this under the tag of "peace", but decades later, the US warplanes attacked Iran's nuclear sites, including Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow as it sees it as a threat now.<h2>Atoms of Peace</h2>Then US President Dwight D Eisenhower launched the "Atoms of Peace" programme, to share civilian technology with allies. At that time, Iran was ruled by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The country was a model Cold War partner, secular and eager to modernise. &nbsp;The US introduced Iran with nuclear technology as it installed the Tehran Research Reactor, training Iranian scientists at elite institutions like MIT, and encouraging partnerships with European allies.For the US, it was nothing more than a strategy to extend influence, contain Soviet power and show the "benevolent" use of atomic energy. But, little did it know, that it created an entire ecosystem of nuclear capacity inside Iran.Robert Einhorn, a former US arms control negotiator and now a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, said, "We gave Iran its starter kit. We weren't terribly concerned about nuclear proliferation in those days, so we were pretty promiscuous about transferring nuclear technology."However, the reactor does not contribute to Iran's enrichment of uranium, the arduous process that is a key process in making nuclear bombs. Moreover, it runs on nuclear fuel which is far too weak to even power a bomb.Years later, it became an object of national pride for Iran and a potential source of military power.But Iran which got the reactor in 1967 was very different from what it has become now. Then, it was led by a monarch, or shah, who was a Swiss-educated aristocrat. Pahlavi wanted to modernise his country and make it a world power but with America's support. He even banned the women's veil and promoted modern art.But it didn't take much time for Shah to talk about Iran's "right" to produce nuclear fuel at home, something that can also be applied to nuclear weapons development.But as the US showed concern and objected, Pahlavi turned to other nations for nuclear assistance, including Germany and South Africa.<h2>US stopped delivering reactors</h2>In 1978, the Carter administration raised concerns and insisted that an Iranian contract to purchase eight American reactors be amended. It then restricted Iran from reprocessing without permission. Then, the US never delivered reactors.When the Islamic Revolution happened in 1979, it created hatred for America and support for the Shah. Iran’s new clerical rulers, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, initially showed little interest in continuing an expensive project associated with the Shah and Western powers.But later in the 1980s after an eight-year war with Iraq, Ayatollah Khameini reconsidered how much nuclear technology is needed and it turned to Pakistan. The Pakistani scientist and nuclear black marketeer Abdul Qadeer Khan sold Iran centrifuges to enrich uranium to bomb-grade levels of purity.<h2>The real reason</h2>Gary Samore, the top White House nuclear official in the Clinton and Obama administrations said that Iran acquiring centrifuges was the main reason its nuclear program escalated into a global issue.“Iran’s enrichment program is not the result of U.S. assistance,” Samore said. “The Iranians got their centrifuge technology from Pakistan, and they have developed their centrifuges based on that Pakistani technology — which itself was based on European designs.”But even after years, the issue remains unsolved between Iran and the US. Today, Trump announced that the US will be holding fresh talks with Iran next week, with a possible nuclear agreement on the table. This comes a day after Israel-Iran agreed to a ceasefire after a 12-day war.&nbsp;

The US did this under the tag of "peace", but decades later, the US warplanes attacked Iran's nuclear sites, including Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow as it sees it as a threat now.

The US bunker-buster bombs deployed through B-2 stealth bombers attacked three Iranian nuclear facilities last weekend amid the Israel-Iran war, but shockingly, the United States was the one that provided Tehran with the seeds of nuclear technology. It all goes back to the 1960s, the US shipped the Tehran Research Reactor to Iran, as part of the “Atoms for Peace” program. First, the US did this under the tag of "peace", but decades later, the US warplanes attacked Iran's nuclear sites, including Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow as it sees it as a threat now. Atoms of Peace Then US President Dwight D Eisenhower launched the "Atoms of Peace" programme, to share civilian technology with allies. At that time, Iran was ruled by Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The country was a model Cold War partner, secular and eager to modernise. The US introduced Iran with nuclear technology as it installed the Tehran Research Reactor, training Iranian scientists at elite institutions like MIT, and encouraging partnerships with European allies. For the US, it was nothing more than a strategy to extend influence, contain Soviet power and show the "benevolent" use of atomic energy. But, little did it know, that it created an entire ecosystem of nuclear capacity inside Iran. Robert Einhorn, a former US arms control negotiator and now a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, said, "We gave Iran its starter kit. We weren't terribly concerned about nuclear proliferation in those days, so we were pretty promiscuous about transferring nuclear technology." However, the reactor does not contribute to Iran's enrichment of uranium, the arduous process that is a key process in making nuclear bombs. Moreover, it runs on nuclear fuel which is far too weak to even power a bomb. Years later, it became an object of national pride for Iran and a potential source of military power. But Iran which got the reactor in 1967 was very different from what it has become now. Then, it was led by a monarch, or shah, who was a Swiss-educated aristocrat. Pahlavi wanted to modernise his country and make it a world power but with America's support. He even banned the women's veil and promoted modern art. But it didn't take much time for Shah to talk about Iran's "right" to produce nuclear fuel at home, something that can also be applied to nuclear weapons development. But as the US showed concern and objected, Pahlavi turned to other nations for nuclear assistance, including Germany and South Africa. US stopped delivering reactors In 1978, the Carter administration raised concerns and insisted that an Iranian contract to purchase eight American reactors be amended. It then restricted Iran from reprocessing without permission. Then, the US never delivered reactors. When the Islamic Revolution happened in 1979, it created hatred for America and support for the Shah. Iran’s new clerical rulers, led by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, initially showed little interest in continuing an expensive project associated with the Shah and Western powers. But later in the 1980s after an eight-year war with Iraq, Ayatollah Khameini reconsidered how much nuclear technology is needed and it turned to Pakistan. The Pakistani scientist and nuclear black marketeer Abdul Qadeer Khan sold Iran centrifuges to enrich uranium to bomb-grade levels of purity. The real reason Gary Samore, the top White House nuclear official in the Clinton and Obama administrations said that Iran acquiring centrifuges was the main reason its nuclear program escalated into a global issue. “Iran’s enrichment program is not the result of U.S. assistance,” Samore said. “The Iranians got their centrifuge technology from Pakistan, and they have developed their centrifuges based on that Pakistani technology — which itself was based on European designs.” But even after years, the issue remains unsolved between Iran and the US. Today, Trump announced that the US will be holding fresh talks with Iran next week, with a possible nuclear agreement on the table. This comes a day after Israel-Iran agreed to a ceasefire after a 12-day war.

The US did this under the tag of "peace", but decades later, the US warplanes attacked Iran's nuclear sites, including Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow as it sees it as a threat now.

US introduced Iran with nuclear technology in 1960s — Then attacked it with B-2 bombers 65 years later | WION EXPLAINS

Iran was ruled by King Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, the Shah from 1941 to 1979. Later on February 11, 1979, the Islamic Revolution swept the country, changing everything.

Iran was ruled by King Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, the Shah from 1941 to 1979. Later on February 11, 1979, the Islamic Revolution swept the country, changing everything. Then, the government was replaced with an Islamic republic.&nbsp;

Iran before 1979 Islamic Revolution: Here's how Iranian women lived before Pahlavi downfall - In photos

As tensions between Israel and Iran intensify with war entering the second week, American B-2 stealth bombers took off from the Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri towards a strategic base in Guam in the western Pacific, Israeli public television KAN broadcaster reported on Saturday.Four Boeing KC-46 Pegasus refueling planes were flying with the bombers, according to the reports.This comes as US President Donald Trump, who has taken a “two-week” deadline for himself to decide on whether he will join Israel in striking Iran, is expected to receive to the White House today afternoon. He is expected to get intelligence briefings with the National Security Council on Saturday and Sunday on the ongoing war.Two of those four planes have already performed refueling for the B2 aircraft over the Pacific Ocean. While the other two are about 75 kilometres behind them.Moreover, two additional refueling aircraft took off from north of San Francisco and are heading north, according to the report. Notably, their next refueling spot will be Hawaii.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-bunker-buster-bomb-israel-needs-this-30-000-pound-bomb-from-us-to-destroy-iran-s-fordow-nuclear-facility-1750173337183">Also read: What is 'bunker buster bomb'? Israel needs THIS 30,000 pound bomb from US to destroy Iran's Fordow nuclear facility</a>&nbsp;The B-2 can carry two 15-ton bunker-buster bombs, which are possessed by America only. According to experts, bunker buster bombs are needed to target Iran’s most heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site.Made by Northrop Grumman, the bomber, B-2 is worth about $2.1 billion each, which makes it the most expensive military aircraft ever built.As Israel continues to attack, with indirect help from the US, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any US participation in attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites would be “extremely dangerous for everyone.”He said Iran will not return to nuclear negotiations with the US as long as the war goes on. “We cannot negotiate with the US while our cities are being bombed,” he said.&nbsp;

The B-2 can carry two 15-ton bunker-buster bombs, which are possessed by America only. According to experts, bunker buster bombs are needed to target Iran’s most heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site.

As tensions between Israel and Iran intensify with war entering the second week, American B-2 stealth bombers took off from the Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri towards a strategic base in Guam in the western Pacific, Israeli public television KAN broadcaster reported on Saturday. Four Boeing KC-46 Pegasus refueling planes were flying with the bombers, according to the reports. This comes as US President Donald Trump, who has taken a “two-week” deadline for himself to decide on whether he will join Israel in striking Iran, is expected to receive to the White House today afternoon. He is expected to get intelligence briefings with the National Security Council on Saturday and Sunday on the ongoing war. Two of those four planes have already performed refueling for the B2 aircraft over the Pacific Ocean. While the other two are about 75 kilometres behind them. Moreover, two additional refueling aircraft took off from north of San Francisco and are heading north, according to the report. Notably, their next refueling spot will be Hawaii. Also read: What is 'bunker buster bomb'? Israel needs THIS 30,000 pound bomb from US to destroy Iran's Fordow nuclear facility The B-2 can carry two 15-ton bunker-buster bombs, which are possessed by America only. According to experts, bunker buster bombs are needed to target Iran’s most heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site. Made by Northrop Grumman, the bomber, B-2 is worth about $2.1 billion each, which makes it the most expensive military aircraft ever built. As Israel continues to attack, with indirect help from the US, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that any US participation in attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites would be “extremely dangerous for everyone.” He said Iran will not return to nuclear negotiations with the US as long as the war goes on. “We cannot negotiate with the US while our cities are being bombed,” he said.

The B-2 can carry two 15-ton bunker-buster bombs, which are possessed by America only. According to experts, bunker buster bombs are needed to target Iran’s most heavily fortified Fordow nuclear site.

American B-2 stealth bombers take off from US base amid Iran’s 'dangerous' warning to US - What’s next for Israel-Iran war?

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Sunday (June 15) confirmed that the Air Force bombed an Iranian refuelling plane at Mashhad Airport in northeast Iran, calling it the “most distant strike” since the beginning of the operation.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Israeli Air Force attacked the refuelling plane at the airport, located some 2,300 kilometres from Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The Air Force is working to achieve air superiority throughout Iran,” the military said.&nbsp;According to the visuals being shared on social media, a large fire could be seen at Mashhad Airport after the Israeli strike.&nbsp;<h2>Watch video HERE&nbsp;</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The runway of Mashhad Airport is being targeted by Israel. Important to note that Mashhad is a pilgrims city with no relevant military infrastructure. <a href="https://t.co/dAGTgxcgZY">pic.twitter.com/dAGTgxcgZY</a>&mdash; MedManOG (@MedManOG) <a href="https://twitter.com/MedManOG/status/1934268188188938695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Israeli strike on the airport marks its first-ever farthest strike. Notably, the IAF struck the headquarters of the Palestine Liberation Organisation in Tunisia, in 1985, which was over 2,000 kilometres from Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier today, IDF Chief of Staff Lt Gen Eyal Zamir said that the Israeli Air Force is attacking Iran’s “infrastructure and nuclear program in a precise and extensive manner, beyond what the enemy anticipated.”&nbsp;“The offensive operations we are conducting in Iran are transforming Israel’s strategic reality. We are removing an existential threat and reinforcing our security,” Zamir said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The IDF has completed paving the way to Iran and is now striking the regime’s infrastructure and nuclear program in a precise and extensive manner, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;On Sunday, Defence Ministry Director Amir Baram held a high-level security assessment with heads of Israel’s leading defence industries.&nbsp;&nbsp;He further called for an accelerated pace of weapons production in the wake of the Iranian missile threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;He lauded the role of Israeli technology in recent strikes and in foiling Iranian ballistic missile barrages, saying that such operations “would not have been possible without groundbreaking technology developed over the years.”&nbsp;Baram also stressed the need to boost industrial capacity and fast-track the development of next-generation defense systems.

The Israeli Air Force attacked the refuelling plane at the airport, located some 2,300 kilometres from Israel. 

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Sunday (June 15) confirmed that the Air Force bombed an Iranian refuelling plane at Mashhad Airport in northeast Iran, calling it the “most distant strike” since the beginning of the operation. The Israeli Air Force attacked the refuelling plane at the airport, located some 2,300 kilometres from Israel. “The Air Force is working to achieve air superiority throughout Iran,” the military said. According to the visuals being shared on social media, a large fire could be seen at Mashhad Airport after the Israeli strike. Watch video HERE

The Israeli Air Force attacked the refuelling plane at the airport, located some 2,300 kilometres from Israel.&nbsp;

'Most distant strike': Israeli Air Force bombs Iranian plane at Mashhad Airport in Iran - WATCH

The Israeli military on Sunday (June 15) said that it struck a nuclear facility in Iran’s Isfahan, Reuters reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;A military spokesperson shared this in a post on X, according to Reuters. According to the report, it did not provide a framework for the attack.&nbsp;&nbsp;An Israeli military official said that Israel still has a large list of targets it plans to hit in Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to a Reuters report, the official declined to say how long strikes against Iran would continue, adding the military had attacked around 80 targets in Tehran on Saturday evening.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-israel-prepared-and-attacked-170-targets-over-720-military-infrastructure-in-iran-in-less-than-three-days-watch-video-1749986372247">Also read: How Israel prepared and attacked 170 targets, over 720 military infrastructure in Iran in less than three days - WATCH video</a>&nbsp;Moreover, the targets included two “dual-use” Iranian fuel sites that supported military and nuclear operations, he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Earlier today, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Iran will pay a “very heavy price” for targeting Israel’s civilians, as he visited the site of the early-morning Iranian missile strike on a Bat Yam apartment building.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Iran will pay a very heavy price for the murder of civilians — women, children — that it carried out deliberately. We will achieve our objectives, and we will strike them with overwhelming force,” says Netanyahu according to a readout from the Prime Minister’s Office.&nbsp;He said that we are in an “existential battle, one that is now clear to every citizen of Israel. Think about what would happen if Iran had a nuclear weapon to drop on Israel’s cities.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, as the war escalates, Iran has asked Cyprus to convey “some messages” to Israelis, President Christodoulides said on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;He added that he expected to speak to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later in the day.&nbsp;Christodoulides also said he was not happy with what he said was a slow reaction by the European Union to the unfolding crisis in the Middle East.Cyprus, the closest EU member state in the region, had asked for an extraordinary meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, he said.

The official declined to say how long strikes against Iran would continue, adding the military had attacked around 80 targets in Tehran on Saturday evening. 

The Israeli military on Sunday (June 15) said that it struck a nuclear facility in Iran’s Isfahan, Reuters reported. A military spokesperson shared this in a post on X, according to Reuters. According to the report, it did not provide a framework for the attack. An Israeli military official said that Israel still has a large list of targets it plans to hit in Iran. According to a Reuters report, the official declined to say how long strikes against Iran would continue, adding the military had attacked around 80 targets in Tehran on Saturday evening. Also read: How Israel prepared and attacked 170 targets, over 720 military infrastructure in Iran in less than three days - WATCH video Moreover, the targets included two “dual-use” Iranian fuel sites that supported military and nuclear operations, he said. Earlier today, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Iran will pay a “very heavy price” for targeting Israel’s civilians, as he visited the site of the early-morning Iranian missile strike on a Bat Yam apartment building. “Iran will pay a very heavy price for the murder of civilians — women, children — that it carried out deliberately. We will achieve our objectives, and we will strike them with overwhelming force,” says Netanyahu according to a readout from the Prime Minister’s Office. He said that we are in an “existential battle, one that is now clear to every citizen of Israel. Think about what would happen if Iran had a nuclear weapon to drop on Israel’s cities.” Meanwhile, as the war escalates, Iran has asked Cyprus to convey “some messages” to Israelis, President Christodoulides said on Sunday. He added that he expected to speak to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later in the day. Christodoulides also said he was not happy with what he said was a slow reaction by the European Union to the unfolding crisis in the Middle East. Cyprus, the closest EU member state in the region, had asked for an extraordinary meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council, he said.

The official declined to say how long strikes against Iran would continue, adding the military had attacked around 80 targets in Tehran on Saturday evening.&nbsp;

'Large list of targets left in Iran': Israel attacks nuclear facility in Tehran's Isfahan

Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East between Iran and Israel, Israel Defence Force (IDF) Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin confirmed on Sunday (June 15) that the Israeli Air Force conducted an airstrike in Yemen overnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;The strike’s target in Yemen was Muhammad Al-Ghamari, the military chief of staff of the Houthi forces, the Israeli officials said. However, the results of the attack have not yet been disclosed, according to a report by Times of Israel.&nbsp;&nbsp;While addressing a press briefing, Defrin said, “Last night, while the strikes in Iran were ongoing, air force fighter jets flew over 2,000 kilometers from Israel and struck Sanaa in Yemen. We will update later on the results of the strike.”<h2>US and UN action against Al-Ghamari in 2021</h2>Earlier in May 2021, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took action against Muhammad Abd Al-Karim al-Ghamari, responsible for orchestrating attacks by Houthi forces impacting Yemeni civilians.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a press release, the OFAC at the time had said, “He has most recently taken charge of the large-scale Houthi offensive against Yemeni government-held territory in Marib province. Humanitarians have warned that the Marib offensive is contributing to a tipping point in Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, as it puts approximately one million already vulnerable internally displaced people (IDP) at risk, threatens to overwhelm an already stretched humanitarian response, and is triggering broader escalation.”&nbsp;In November 2021, the United Nations listed him for his involvement in and leadership of Houthi military campaigns that threatened Yemen's peace, security, and stability.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Al-Ghamari, as Houthi Military Chief of General Staff, plays the leading role in orchestrating the Houthis’ military efforts that are directly threatening the peace, security and stability of Yemen, as well as cross-border attacks against Saudi Arabia. He most recently took charge of the large-scale Houthi offensive against Yemeni government-held territory in Marib governorate. The Marib offensive is exacerbating Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, as it puts approximately one million vulnerable internally displaced people at risk of being displaced yet again, lead to the deaths of civilians, and is triggering broader escalation of the conflict,” the UN had said in the statement.&nbsp;Backed by Iran, the Houthis are also known as Ansar Allah. They are a Zaydi Shia rebel group from Yemen. They gained power during Yemen’s civil war and captured the capital, Sanaa, in 2014.&nbsp;

Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East between Iran and Israel, Israel Defence Force (IDF) Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin confirmed on Sunday (June 15) that the Israeli Air Force conducted an airstrike in Yemen overnight.

Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East between Iran and Israel, Israel Defence Force (IDF) Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin confirmed on Sunday (June 15) that the Israeli Air Force conducted an airstrike in Yemen overnight. The strike’s target in Yemen was Muhammad Al-Ghamari, the military chief of staff of the Houthi forces, the Israeli officials said. However, the results of the attack have not yet been disclosed, according to a report by Times of Israel. While addressing a press briefing, Defrin said, “Last night, while the strikes in Iran were ongoing, air force fighter jets flew over 2,000 kilometers from Israel and struck Sanaa in Yemen. We will update later on the results of the strike.” US and UN action against Al-Ghamari in 2021 Earlier in May 2021, the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) took action against Muhammad Abd Al-Karim al-Ghamari, responsible for orchestrating attacks by Houthi forces impacting Yemeni civilians. In a press release, the OFAC at the time had said, “He has most recently taken charge of the large-scale Houthi offensive against Yemeni government-held territory in Marib province. Humanitarians have warned that the Marib offensive is contributing to a tipping point in Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, as it puts approximately one million already vulnerable internally displaced people (IDP) at risk, threatens to overwhelm an already stretched humanitarian response, and is triggering broader escalation.” In November 2021, the United Nations listed him for his involvement in and leadership of Houthi military campaigns that threatened Yemen's peace, security, and stability. “Al-Ghamari, as Houthi Military Chief of General Staff, plays the leading role in orchestrating the Houthis’ military efforts that are directly threatening the peace, security and stability of Yemen, as well as cross-border attacks against Saudi Arabia. He most recently took charge of the large-scale Houthi offensive against Yemeni government-held territory in Marib governorate. The Marib offensive is exacerbating Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, as it puts approximately one million vulnerable internally displaced people at risk of being displaced yet again, lead to the deaths of civilians, and is triggering broader escalation of the conflict,” the UN had said in the statement. Backed by Iran, the Houthis are also known as Ansar Allah. They are a Zaydi Shia rebel group from Yemen. They gained power during Yemen’s civil war and captured the capital, Sanaa, in 2014.

Amid the escalating tensions in the Middle East between Iran and Israel, Israel Defence Force (IDF) Spokesperson Brigadier General Effie Defrin confirmed on Sunday (June 15) that the Israeli Air Force conducted an airstrike in Yemen overnight.

Israel confirms airstrike in Yemen targeting Houthi military chief

Founded in 1882 by Russian-Jewish immigrants, Rishon Lezion is one of the largest cities in Israel and lies on the Judaean Plain southeast of Tel Aviv–Yafo.

Founded in 1882 by Russian-Jewish immigrants, Rishon Lezion is one of the largest cities in Israel and lies on the Judaean Plain southeast of Tel Aviv–Yafo.

Israel's Rishon Lezion reels after Iran's retaliatory strikes; drone images reveal widespread destruction

Iran on Friday midnight launched a barrage of missiles toward Israel in retaliation to Operation Rising Lion. The continuous wave of missiles killed three people and injured over two dozen people.

Iran on Friday midnight launched a barrage of missiles toward Israel in retaliation to Operation Rising Lion. The continuous wave of missiles killed three people and injured over two dozen people.&nbsp;

Iran's attack on Israel in 5 pictures - How Tehran retaliated with barrage of missiles

Devastating scenes unfolded in Tel Aviv as residents grappled with the aftermath of Iran's retaliatory strikes, which pummeled the city on Friday (June 14). Residents described the scene as ‘horrific — shattered glass, and darkness everywhere’.&nbsp;Two residents of a Tel Aviv apartment building hit by Iran's strikes shared their firsthand accounts of the devastating aftermath.&nbsp;A resident said, “We came home. We saw glass everywhere. We saw the apartment completely fried. The whole building is starting to fall apart. There’s no electricity in the building. There’s still people stuck in their apartments, he was quoted saying to American media outlet CNN.&nbsp;The resident further said that he remains uncertain about the building's situation, while another resident, his cousin, said he will look for a family to stay with for the night along with their dog.<h2>‘Life will become bitter’: Iranian supreme leader's warning&nbsp;</h2>Following retaliatory strikes against Israel, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed severe consequences for Israel, saying that, “The Zionist regime will not escape safely from the heinous crime they’ve committed. Life will definitely become bitter for the Zionists. The Zionist regime has made a big mistake, a grave error, and committed a reckless act. By God’s grace, the consequences of this will bring that regime to ruin.”&nbsp;<h2>Israelis running to shelter</h2>Notably, loud explosions rocked Tel Aviv on Saturday morning (June 14) as Israel confirmed that multiple missiles had been launched from Iran towards its territory. Huge plumes of smoke were seen rising above the city skyline, but it remains unclear whether the smoke was caused by direct hits or from Israeli interceptions.&nbsp;“All of Israel is under fire,” said the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in a statement. The military added that its air defence systems were active and working to intercept incoming threats.&nbsp;People across Israel were urged to seek shelter. “Enter a protected space and remain there until further notice,” the IDF warned, citing ongoing risks.&nbsp;In another statement posted on X, IDF said, “We would rather not be tweeting the same thing many times in a day, but millions of Israelis keep running to shelter as Iran keeps shooting more ballistic missiles at Israel.”&nbsp;The Israeli Air Force (IAF) also confirmed the missile threat on X, “A short time ago, alerts were activated in several areas across the country following the detection of missiles launched from Iran toward Israeli territory. At this time, the Air Force is operating to intercept and strike wherever necessary to neutralise the threat.”&nbsp;The statement added that the defence system “is not hermetic,” and stressed the importance of following safety instructions issued by the Home Front Command.&nbsp;The escalation comes after Israel launched a major military operation in Iran. On Friday, Israeli jets carried out widespread airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. The strikes were part of what Israel called a “preemptive” campaign.&nbsp;According to Israeli officials, the strikes resulted in the deaths of top Iranian figures, including Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, Revolutionary Guards head Hossein Salami, and Supreme Leader adviser Ali Shamkhani.&nbsp;Iran confirmed the deaths and called the strikes a “declaration of war.” The Iranian government has urged the United Nations Security Council to take immediate action in response.

Speaking to CNN, one resident said, “We came home. We saw glass everywhere. We saw the apartment completely fried. The whole building is starting to fall apart. There’s no electricity in the building. There’s still people stuck in their apartments.”



Devastating scenes unfolded in Tel Aviv as residents grappled with the aftermath of Iran's retaliatory strikes, which pummeled the city on Friday (June 14). Residents described the scene as ‘horrific — shattered glass, and darkness everywhere’. Two residents of a Tel Aviv apartment building hit by Iran's strikes shared their firsthand accounts of the devastating aftermath. A resident said, “We came home. We saw glass everywhere. We saw the apartment completely fried. The whole building is starting to fall apart. There’s no electricity in the building. There’s still people stuck in their apartments, he was quoted saying to American media outlet CNN. The resident further said that he remains uncertain about the building's situation, while another resident, his cousin, said he will look for a family to stay with for the night along with their dog. ‘Life will become bitter’: Iranian supreme leader's warning Following retaliatory strikes against Israel, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed severe consequences for Israel, saying that, “The Zionist regime will not escape safely from the heinous crime they’ve committed. Life will definitely become bitter for the Zionists. The Zionist regime has made a big mistake, a grave error, and committed a reckless act. By God’s grace, the consequences of this will bring that regime to ruin.” Israelis running to shelter Notably, loud explosions rocked Tel Aviv on Saturday morning (June 14) as Israel confirmed that multiple missiles had been launched from Iran towards its territory. Huge plumes of smoke were seen rising above the city skyline, but it remains unclear whether the smoke was caused by direct hits or from Israeli interceptions. “All of Israel is under fire,” said the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in a statement. The military added that its air defence systems were active and working to intercept incoming threats. People across Israel were urged to seek shelter. “Enter a protected space and remain there until further notice,” the IDF warned, citing ongoing risks. In another statement posted on X, IDF said, “We would rather not be tweeting the same thing many times in a day, but millions of Israelis keep running to shelter as Iran keeps shooting more ballistic missiles at Israel.” The Israeli Air Force (IAF) also confirmed the missile threat on X, “A short time ago, alerts were activated in several areas across the country following the detection of missiles launched from Iran toward Israeli territory. At this time, the Air Force is operating to intercept and strike wherever necessary to neutralise the threat.” The statement added that the defence system “is not hermetic,” and stressed the importance of following safety instructions issued by the Home Front Command. The escalation comes after Israel launched a major military operation in Iran. On Friday, Israeli jets carried out widespread airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. The strikes were part of what Israel called a “preemptive” campaign. According to Israeli officials, the strikes resulted in the deaths of top Iranian figures, including Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, Revolutionary Guards head Hossein Salami, and Supreme Leader adviser Ali Shamkhani. Iran confirmed the deaths and called the strikes a “declaration of war.” The Iranian government has urged the United Nations Security Council to take immediate action in response.

A resident said, “At home, we saw glass everywhere. The apartment was completely fried. The whole building started to fall apart. There are still people stuck in their apartments.”

‘Glass everywhere, whole building started to fall apart’: Tel Aviv residents recall devastating aftermath of Iran's retaliatory strikes

US President Donald Trump on Friday (June 13) praised Israel's airstrikes on Iran’s&nbsp;nuclear sites, missile systems, and military leadership, calling the operation "excellent" and warning that "there’s more to come."&nbsp;&nbsp;In a telephonic conversation with ABC News’ Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, Trump said, "I think it's been excellent. We gave them a chance and they didn't take it. They got hit hard, very hard. They got hit about as hard as you're going to get hit. And there's more to come. A lot more."&nbsp;When asked whether the United States played a role in the attacks, he declined to answer directly, saying, “I don’t want to comment on that.”&nbsp;<h2>Trump warns of “much worse" consequences</h2>Trump has also called on Iran to come to the negotiating table over its nuclear programme, warning of “much worse” consequences if it fails to act.&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said, “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to ‘just do it’, but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250613/image-1749821626978.png"></figure>&nbsp;The POTUS also issued a threat about the strength of US and Israeli military power, saying, “The United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World, BY FAR, and that Israel has a lot of it, with much more to come, And they know how to use it.” He also claimed that ‘Iranian hardliners’ underestimated the response they would face.&nbsp;US president wrote in his post, “Certain Iranian hardliner’s spoke bravely, but they didn’t know what was about to happen. They are all DEAD now, and it will only get worse!” He added that there had already been “great death and destruction”, but stressed there was still time for diplomacy.&nbsp;Stating that Iran should ‘make a deal’ soon, Trump warned Tehran that if it does not want more death and destruction, it must finalise a deal with America soon.<h2>Iran accuses Israel of declaring war</h2>Iran, meanwhile, accused Israel of launching strikes on its military and nuclear facilities on Friday and called the attack a “declaration of war”. Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council, urging the international body to act quickly.&nbsp;The Iranian foreign ministry said Araghchi “called on the Security Council to immediately address this issue”, according to AFP.

US President Donald Trump on Friday praised Israel's airstrikes on Iran’s  nuclear sites, missile systems, and military leadership, calling the operation "excellent" and warning that there’s more to come.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (June 13) praised Israel's airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, missile systems, and military leadership, calling the operation "excellent" and warning that "there’s more to come." In a telephonic conversation with ABC News’ Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, Trump said, "I think it's been excellent. We gave them a chance and they didn't take it. They got hit hard, very hard. They got hit about as hard as you're going to get hit. And there's more to come. A lot more." When asked whether the United States played a role in the attacks, he declined to answer directly, saying, “I don’t want to comment on that.” Trump warns of “much worse" consequences Trump has also called on Iran to come to the negotiating table over its nuclear programme, warning of “much worse” consequences if it fails to act. In a post on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said, “I gave Iran chance after chance to make a deal. I told them, in the strongest of words, to ‘just do it’, but no matter how hard they tried, no matter how close they got, they just couldn’t get it done.” The POTUS also issued a threat about the strength of US and Israeli military power, saying, “The United States makes the best and most lethal military equipment anywhere in the World, BY FAR, and that Israel has a lot of it, with much more to come, And they know how to use it.” He also claimed that ‘Iranian hardliners’ underestimated the response they would face. US president wrote in his post, “Certain Iranian hardliner’s spoke bravely, but they didn’t know what was about to happen. They are all DEAD now, and it will only get worse!” He added that there had already been “great death and destruction”, but stressed there was still time for diplomacy. Stating that Iran should ‘make a deal’ soon, Trump warned Tehran that if it does not want more death and destruction, it must finalise a deal with America soon. Iran accuses Israel of declaring war Iran, meanwhile, accused Israel of launching strikes on its military and nuclear facilities on Friday and called the attack a “declaration of war”. Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council, urging the international body to act quickly. The Iranian foreign ministry said Araghchi “called on the Security Council to immediately address this issue”, according to AFP.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (June 13) praised Israel's airstrikes on Iran’s&nbsp;nuclear sites, missile systems, and military leadership, calling the operation "excellent" and warning that "there’s more to come."&nbsp;

'There’s more to come...': Trump praises Israel's 'excellent' airstrikes on Iran, issues warning

After Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iran on Friday (Jun 13), targeting nuclear sites, missile systems, and military leadership. A time-lapse video from Flightradar24, a real-time flight tracker map, captured the immediate fallout in the skies. The footage showed Iranian airspace emptying as civilian aircraft diverted their routes to avoid the conflict zone.&nbsp;The video highlights the sudden and dramatic shift in global aviation, with commercial flights rerouting in real-time, moving away from Iranian territory and seeking safer paths.&nbsp;&nbsp;This widespread diversion is expected to have implications for global aviation, potentially leading to delays in flight timings and higher fuel costs for airlines operating across the Middle East and Asia.&nbsp;Meanwhile, following the rising tensions between Israel and Iran, Air India issued a travel advisory and announced the diversion of flights. In a statement posted on X, Air India said, “Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace and in view of the safety of our passengers. We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen disruption and are making every effort to minimize it, including providing accommodation for passengers. Refunds on cancellation or complimentary rescheduling is also being offered to guests who opt for it. Alternative arrangements are being made to fly passengers to their destinations.”&nbsp;The affected flights include:AI130 – London Heathrow-Mumbai – Diverted to Vienna AI102 – New York-Delhi – Diverted to Sharjah AI116 – New York-Mumbai – Diverted to Jeddah AI2018 – London Heathrow-Delhi – Diverted to Mumbai AI129 – Mumbai-London Heathrow – Returning to Mumbai AI119 – Mumbai-New York – Returning to Mumbai AI103 – Delhi-Washington – Returning to Delhi AI106 – Newark-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna AI188 – Vancouver-Delhi – Diverting to Jeddah AI101 – Delhi-New York – Diverting to Frankfurt/Milan AI126 – Chicago-Delhi – Diverting to Jeddah AI132 – London Heathrow-Bengaluru – Diverted to Sharjah AI2016 – London Heathrow-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna AI104 – Washington-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna AI190 – Toronto-Delhi – Diverted to Frankfurt AI189 – Delhi-Toronto – Returning to Delhi&nbsp;The Delhi Airport authority also issued a passenger advisory and said in a statement, “Delhi Airport operations are running smoothly. However, due to evolving airspace conditions over Iran, Iraq and neighbouring region, some flight schedules have been impacted. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights. We strongly urge all passengers to rely only on official sources for accurate and up-to-date information.”&nbsp;West Asian airspace lies at the heart of one of the world’s busiest flight corridors, linking Asia with Europe. Its closure has hit airlines where it hurts — the balance sheet. According to industry data cited by Reuters, rerouting flights around Iran and Israel adds US $5,000 to $10,000 per flight in fuel and overflight charges.&nbsp;Fuel costs alone make up nearly 30 per cent of an airline’s total operating expenditure. Extended flight times also mean additional crew hours, passenger delays and overburdened airport schedules. Freight operators are feeling the shockwaves too. Cargo delays have rippled through hubs like Dubai, Doha, Istanbul and Delhi — critical links in Asia–Europe logistics.&nbsp;Insurance firms, in turn, have hiked aviation war-risk premiums for carriers flying near active conflict zones.&nbsp;A 2024 precedent offers insight: when Pakistani airspace remained closed for five months, Indian carriers reported losses totalling nearly US $600 million, according to Cirium data cited by Reuters.&nbsp;Iran, meanwhile, accused Israel of launching strikes on its military and nuclear facilities on Friday and called the attack a “declaration of war”.&nbsp;Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council, urging the international body to act quickly.&nbsp;The Iranian foreign ministry said Araghchi “called on the Security Council to immediately address this issue”, according to AFP.

Video shows air traffic being cleared over Iran following Israeli airstrikes

After Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iran on Friday (Jun 13), targeting nuclear sites, missile systems, and military leadership. A time-lapse video from Flightradar24, a real-time flight tracker map, captured the immediate fallout in the skies. The footage showed Iranian airspace emptying as civilian aircraft diverted their routes to avoid the conflict zone. The video highlights the sudden and dramatic shift in global aviation, with commercial flights rerouting in real-time, moving away from Iranian territory and seeking safer paths. This widespread diversion is expected to have implications for global aviation, potentially leading to delays in flight timings and higher fuel costs for airlines operating across the Middle East and Asia. Meanwhile, following the rising tensions between Israel and Iran, Air India issued a travel advisory and announced the diversion of flights. In a statement posted on X, Air India said, “Due to the emerging situation in Iran, the subsequent closure of its airspace and in view of the safety of our passengers. We regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen disruption and are making every effort to minimize it, including providing accommodation for passengers. Refunds on cancellation or complimentary rescheduling is also being offered to guests who opt for it. Alternative arrangements are being made to fly passengers to their destinations.” The affected flights include: AI130 – London Heathrow-Mumbai – Diverted to Vienna AI102 – New York-Delhi – Diverted to Sharjah AI116 – New York-Mumbai – Diverted to Jeddah AI2018 – London Heathrow-Delhi – Diverted to Mumbai AI129 – Mumbai-London Heathrow – Returning to Mumbai AI119 – Mumbai-New York – Returning to Mumbai AI103 – Delhi-Washington – Returning to Delhi AI106 – Newark-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna AI188 – Vancouver-Delhi – Diverting to Jeddah AI101 – Delhi-New York – Diverting to Frankfurt/Milan AI126 – Chicago-Delhi – Diverting to Jeddah AI132 – London Heathrow-Bengaluru – Diverted to Sharjah AI2016 – London Heathrow-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna AI104 – Washington-Delhi – Diverted to Vienna AI190 – Toronto-Delhi – Diverted to Frankfurt AI189 – Delhi-Toronto – Returning to Delhi The Delhi Airport authority also issued a passenger advisory and said in a statement, “Delhi Airport operations are running smoothly. However, due to evolving airspace conditions over Iran, Iraq and neighbouring region, some flight schedules have been impacted. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates regarding their flights. We strongly urge all passengers to rely only on official sources for accurate and up-to-date information.” West Asian airspace lies at the heart of one of the world’s busiest flight corridors, linking Asia with Europe. Its closure has hit airlines where it hurts — the balance sheet. According to industry data cited by Reuters, rerouting flights around Iran and Israel adds US $5,000 to $10,000 per flight in fuel and overflight charges. Fuel costs alone make up nearly 30 per cent of an airline’s total operating expenditure. Extended flight times also mean additional crew hours, passenger delays and overburdened airport schedules. Freight operators are feeling the shockwaves too. Cargo delays have rippled through hubs like Dubai, Doha, Istanbul and Delhi — critical links in Asia–Europe logistics. Insurance firms, in turn, have hiked aviation war-risk premiums for carriers flying near active conflict zones. A 2024 precedent offers insight: when Pakistani airspace remained closed for five months, Indian carriers reported losses totalling nearly US $600 million, according to Cirium data cited by Reuters. Iran, meanwhile, accused Israel of launching strikes on its military and nuclear facilities on Friday and called the attack a “declaration of war”. Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council, urging the international body to act quickly. The Iranian foreign ministry said Araghchi “called on the Security Council to immediately address this issue”, according to AFP.

After Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iran on Friday, a time-lapse video from Flightradar24 captured the immediate fallout in the skies. The footage showed Iranian airspace emptying as civilian aircraft diverted their routes to avoid the conflict zone.

How planes emptied Iranian airspace following Israeli strike | List of affected flights and more

Hours after Israel launched strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities under "Operation Rising Lion", the US senator stressed that the attack was intended to scuttle the Trump Administration negotiations with Iran.US Senator Chris Murphy said that the attacks risk a regional war that will likely be catastrophic for America."Israel's attack on Iran, clearly intended to scuttle the Trump Administration's negotiations with Iran, risks a regional war that will likely be catastrophic for America and is further evidence of how little respect world powers - including our own allies - have for President Trump," Murphy said in a post on X.He then said that Iran would not be this close to possessing a nuclear weapon if Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu had not forced America out of the nuclear agreement with Iran, stressing that it had brought Europe, Russia, and China together behind the US to successfully contain Iran’s nuclear ambitions."This is a disaster of Trump and Netanyahu's own making, and now the region risks spiraling toward a new, deadly conflict," the US senator said. &nbsp;He stressed that the war would likely be disastrous for the security of Israel and the US."A war between Israel and Iran may be good for Netanyahu’s domestic politics, but it will likely be disastrous for both the security of Israel, the United States, and the rest of the region," he added.Noting what US State Secretary Marco Rubio said on the attack, Murphy said that the US has no obligation to follow Israel into a war, which America did not even ask for.After decades of warnings against the nuclear program, Israel attacked Iran on Friday morning, launching Operation Rising Lion as it struck Tehran's nuclear sites, military facilities, missile bases, as well as senior leadership.As it launched strikes, Israel announced a domestic state of emergency as the country braces for possible retaliation from Iran.&nbsp;

US Senator Chris Murphy said that the attacks risk a regional war that will likely be catastrophic for America.

Hours after Israel launched strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities under "Operation Rising Lion", the US senator stressed that the attack was intended to scuttle the Trump Administration negotiations with Iran. US Senator Chris Murphy said that the attacks risk a regional war that will likely be catastrophic for America. "Israel's attack on Iran, clearly intended to scuttle the Trump Administration's negotiations with Iran, risks a regional war that will likely be catastrophic for America and is further evidence of how little respect world powers - including our own allies - have for President Trump," Murphy said in a post on X. He then said that Iran would not be this close to possessing a nuclear weapon if Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu had not forced America out of the nuclear agreement with Iran, stressing that it had brought Europe, Russia, and China together behind the US to successfully contain Iran’s nuclear ambitions. "This is a disaster of Trump and Netanyahu's own making, and now the region risks spiraling toward a new, deadly conflict," the US senator said. He stressed that the war would likely be disastrous for the security of Israel and the US. "A war between Israel and Iran may be good for Netanyahu’s domestic politics, but it will likely be disastrous for both the security of Israel, the United States, and the rest of the region," he added. Noting what US State Secretary Marco Rubio said on the attack, Murphy said that the US has no obligation to follow Israel into a war, which America did not even ask for. After decades of warnings against the nuclear program, Israel attacked Iran on Friday morning, launching Operation Rising Lion as it struck Tehran's nuclear sites, military facilities, missile bases, as well as senior leadership. As it launched strikes, Israel announced a domestic state of emergency as the country braces for possible retaliation from Iran.

US Senator Chris Murphy said that the attacks risk a regional war that will likely be catastrophic for America.

A CATASTROPHE for America? US senator claims Israel's attack on Iran intended to scuttle Trump admin's talks with Tehran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (June 12) placed a note in the Western Wall, a day before Israel attacked Iran's nuclear facilities as it launched Operation Rising Lion.Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu placed a note in the Western Wall yesterday with the verse, "A people that rises up as a lioness, and as a lion lifts himself up."The Israeli prime minister's office shared the photo of Netanyahu placing the note, with the verse written on it.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu placed a note in the Western Wall yesterday with the verse: &#39;A people that rises up as a lioness, and as a lion lifts himself up&#39;. Photos: Ziv Koren <a href="https://t.co/iRUIKEVKBg">pic.twitter.com/iRUIKEVKBg</a>&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1933383484745416947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What does it mean and why does it matter?</h2>The Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall or Kotel, is a Jewish religious site, located in the Old City of Jerusalem.The Wall holds religious significance for Jews as it is a place of prayer and remembrance. The place is popular as people place notes in the cracks of the wall as a tradition, believing that the divine presence resides there and prayers are carried directly to God.Moreover, it is the only remaining part of the Second Temple, a sacred building that was destroyed in 70 CE.Israel launched "Operation Rising Lion" on Friday (June 13), hitting Iran's nuclear facilities and also attacking senior military officials.IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin in a press conference said that over 200 Israeli Air Force aircraft were involved in the opening strikes on Iran early this morning.He says fighter jets dropped over 330 munitions on some 100 targets in the strikes.Defrin also confirms that Israel killed several top Iranian officials in the strikes, including Iran’s military commander Mohammad Bagheri, IRGC chief Hossein Salami, and the head of the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Gholam Ali Rashid.Meanwhile, Iranian supreme leader Khamenei has vowed ‘harsh punishment’ for Israel after Friday's attack killed several Iranian top commanders and scientists.Khamenei confirmed that "several commanders and scientists were martyred" in the attacks, saying their successors would "immediately continue their duties."

The Israeli prime minister's office shared the photo of Netanyahu placing the note, with the verse written on it.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (June 12) placed a note in the Western Wall, a day before Israel attacked Iran's nuclear facilities as it launched Operation Rising Lion. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu placed a note in the Western Wall yesterday with the verse, "A people that rises up as a lioness, and as a lion lifts himself up." The Israeli prime minister's office shared the photo of Netanyahu placing the note, with the verse written on it.

The Israeli prime minister's office shared the photo of Netanyahu placing the note, with the verse written on it.

'As a lion lifts himself up...': Netanyahu leaves note at Western Wall before launching Operation Rising Lion - Here's what it means

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