Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has issued a strong response to recent threats from the United States, saying, "Iran will not surrender," after US President Donald Trump demanded, "unconditional surrender." His comments, aired on state television on Wednesday (18 June), come amid rising tensions following deadly airstrikes between Iran and Israel.“Intelligent people who know Iran, the Iranian nation, and its history will never speak to this nation in threatening language because the Iranian nation will not surrender,” Khamenei said in a message read aloud on national TV.This was his first public statement since Israel carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and killed several senior Iranian commanders on 12 June.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-speech-donald-trump-1750240765362">'US strike will have serious consequences': Khamenei says 'Iran will not surrender' in first address after Israel's strike - Here what he said</a><h2>Khamenei warns of ‘irreparable damage’ if US intervenes</h2>The Iranian leader issued a clear warning to the United States, stating that any military action would have serious consequences.“The Americans should know that any US military intervention will undoubtedly be accompanied by irreparable damage,” he warned.Khamenei’s statement appeared to be in direct response to comments made by US President Donald Trump a day earlier.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-tankers-moving-closer-warships-deployed-is-us-military-ready-to-enter-israel-iran-war-here-s-what-the-weapon-movement-suggest-1750184582699">'Tankers moving closer, warships deployed': Is US military ready to enter Israel-Iran war? Here's what the weapon movement suggest</a><h2>Trump demands ‘unconditional surrender’ from Iran</h2>On Tuesday (17 June), President Trump demanded that Iran surrender without conditions. He also revealed that the US intelligence community knows Khamenei’s exact location.“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there. We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter,” Trump wrote.His comments have heightened fears that the US could become directly involved in the conflict between Iran and Israel, something Tehran has repeatedly cautioned against.<h2>Israel-Iran war enters day six</h2>The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has now entered its sixth day, with both sides exchanging continuous air strikes. The hostilities began on Friday when Israel launched attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, claiming Tehran was secretly working on a nuclear weapon, an allegation Iran firmly denies.So far, at least 224 people have been killed in Iran and 24 in Israel, according to official figures.

This was his first public statement since Israel carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and killed several senior Iranian commanders and scientists on 12 June.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has issued a strong response to recent threats from the United States, saying, "Iran will not surrender," after US President Donald Trump demanded, "unconditional surrender." His comments, aired on state television on Wednesday (18 June), come amid rising tensions following deadly airstrikes between Iran and Israel. “Intelligent people who know Iran, the Iranian nation, and its history will never speak to this nation in threatening language because the Iranian nation will not surrender,” Khamenei said in a message read aloud on national TV. This was his first public statement since Israel carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and killed several senior Iranian commanders on 12 June. Also read: 'US strike will have serious consequences': Khamenei says 'Iran will not surrender' in first address after Israel's strike - Here what he said Khamenei warns of ‘irreparable damage’ if US intervenes The Iranian leader issued a clear warning to the United States, stating that any military action would have serious consequences. “The Americans should know that any US military intervention will undoubtedly be accompanied by irreparable damage,” he warned. Khamenei’s statement appeared to be in direct response to comments made by US President Donald Trump a day earlier. Also read: 'Tankers moving closer, warships deployed': Is US military ready to enter Israel-Iran war? Here's what the weapon movement suggest Trump demands ‘unconditional surrender’ from Iran On Tuesday (17 June), President Trump demanded that Iran surrender without conditions. He also revealed that the US intelligence community knows Khamenei’s exact location. “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there. We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter,” Trump wrote. His comments have heightened fears that the US could become directly involved in the conflict between Iran and Israel, something Tehran has repeatedly cautioned against. Israel-Iran war enters day six The ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel has now entered its sixth day, with both sides exchanging continuous air strikes. The hostilities began on Friday when Israel launched attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, claiming Tehran was secretly working on a nuclear weapon, an allegation Iran firmly denies. So far, at least 224 people have been killed in Iran and 24 in Israel, according to official figures.

This was his first public statement since Israel carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and killed several senior Iranian commanders and scientists on 12 June.

Israel-Iran war: Khamenei's four-word reply to Trump's 'UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER' warning - What did Iran's Supreme Leader say?

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (June 18) warned Israel that it would be punished for making a "huge mistake".In a televised address, the Iranian leader vowed that Israel will be punished amid heightened tensions as the Israel-Iran war escalates.However, Khamenei did not mention the nature of the "mistake" he was talking about, he definitely signalled a strong response from Iran as Israel continues to launch strikes.<h2>'Era of hit and run over'</h2>Khamenei further stressed that the era of hit-and-run is over and "the Zionist regime" will be punished for the crime they committed.“The Zionist regime must know that the era of hit-and-run is over,” Khamenei said. “They will be punished for the crime they have committed.”This comes just hours after his televised address, in which he warned the US against military intervention and asserted that Iran would not surrender to "imposed peace or war".&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-speech-donald-trump-1750240765362">Also read: 'US strike will have serious consequences': Khamenei says 'Iran will not surrender' in first address after Israel's strike - Here's what he said</a><h2>'Iran will never surrender'</h2>The Iranian leader slammed the "threatening and ridiculous statements" made by US President Donald Trump, and warned that any US military intervention will undoubtedly cause "irreparable damage."He said that "wise people who know Iran, its people, and its history never speak to this nation in the language of threats, because Iranians are not those who surrender".He then praised the "steadfast, courageous, and timely behaviour" of the Iranian nation' as Israel continued to attack the Iranian region.“The Iranian nation will stand firm against an imposed war, just as it will stand firm against an imposed peace, and this nation will not surrender to anyone in the face of imposition,” Tasnim news agency quotes him as saying.&nbsp;

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (June 18) warned Israel that it would be punished for making a huge mistake. 

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (June 18) warned Israel that it would be punished for making a "huge mistake". In a televised address, the Iranian leader vowed that Israel will be punished amid heightened tensions as the Israel-Iran war escalates. However, Khamenei did not mention the nature of the "mistake" he was talking about, he definitely signalled a strong response from Iran as Israel continues to launch strikes. 'Era of hit and run over' Khamenei further stressed that the era of hit-and-run is over and "the Zionist regime" will be punished for the crime they committed. “The Zionist regime must know that the era of hit-and-run is over,” Khamenei said. “They will be punished for the crime they have committed.” This comes just hours after his televised address, in which he warned the US against military intervention and asserted that Iran would not surrender to "imposed peace or war". Also read: 'US strike will have serious consequences': Khamenei says 'Iran will not surrender' in first address after Israel's strike - Here's what he said 'Iran will never surrender' The Iranian leader slammed the "threatening and ridiculous statements" made by US President Donald Trump, and warned that any US military intervention will undoubtedly cause "irreparable damage." He said that "wise people who know Iran, its people, and its history never speak to this nation in the language of threats, because Iranians are not those who surrender". He then praised the "steadfast, courageous, and timely behaviour" of the Iranian nation' as Israel continued to attack the Iranian region. “The Iranian nation will stand firm against an imposed war, just as it will stand firm against an imposed peace, and this nation will not surrender to anyone in the face of imposition,” Tasnim news agency quotes him as saying.

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday (June 18) warned Israel that it would be punished for making a "huge mistake".

'Israel will be PUNISHED for making huge mistake': Khamenei warns Israel, says 'era of hit-and-run is over'

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave multiple threats to Iran, including the assassination of its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In his recent interview with ABC News, Netanyahu said that if Israel were to kill Khamenei, the ongoing war could end.&nbsp;Just a day later, Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, issued a more direct warning, saying Khamenei could meet the same fate as former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein.&nbsp;Since then, the question around who can succeed Khamenei for the role of Iran's next Ayatollah has picked a pace.&nbsp;Here are some top contenders who can lead the Islamic Republic after Khamenei.&nbsp;Mojtaba Khamenei&nbsp;After Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei can take the position. Mojataba was first in the spotlight after the assassination of Iranian President Ismail Haniyeh. &nbsp;&nbsp;In any situation where Khamenei would not be able to take the lead, Mojatab is the topmost contender for the highest role in the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;Mojtaba was born in &nbsp;1969 and has strong ties with both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Iran’s clerical establishment. He served in the final phase of the Iran-Iraq war and is now a mid-ranking cleric.&nbsp;Alireza Arafi&nbsp;Another key contender is Alireza Arafi, a trusted aide of Khamenei. &nbsp;He holds multiple key positions in the Islamic Republic - including deputy chairman of the Assembly of Experts, member of the Guardian Council, and Friday prayer leader in Qom.&nbsp;Ali Asghar Hejazi&nbsp;Hejazi is responsible for overseeing political security affairs at the Supreme Leader’s office. He is well-known for his behind-the-scenes influence.&nbsp;Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei&nbsp;Mohseni Ejei is third in line, having spent decades in the judiciary and intelligence circles of Iran. He previously served as Iran’s intelligence minister under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and has held various senior legal posts, including attorney general and judiciary spokesperson.&nbsp;Others in line&nbsp;In addition, some other contenders for the role are: Mohammad Golpayegani, the long-serving chief of Khamenei’s office; former foreign ministers Ali Akbar Velayati and Kamal Kharazi, and former parliament speaker Ali Larijani.&nbsp;

If not Ali Khamenei, then who? Top contenders who can replace Iran Supreme Leader

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave multiple threats to Iran, including the assassination of its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In his recent interview with ABC News, Netanyahu said that if Israel were to kill Khamenei, the ongoing war could end. Just a day later, Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, issued a more direct warning, saying Khamenei could meet the same fate as former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. Since then, the question around who can succeed Khamenei for the role of Iran's next Ayatollah has picked a pace. Here are some top contenders who can lead the Islamic Republic after Khamenei. Mojtaba Khamenei After Ali Khamenei, his son Mojtaba Khamenei can take the position. Mojataba was first in the spotlight after the assassination of Iranian President Ismail Haniyeh. In any situation where Khamenei would not be able to take the lead, Mojatab is the topmost contender for the highest role in the Islamic Republic. Mojtaba was born in 1969 and has strong ties with both the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and Iran’s clerical establishment. He served in the final phase of the Iran-Iraq war and is now a mid-ranking cleric. Alireza Arafi Another key contender is Alireza Arafi, a trusted aide of Khamenei. He holds multiple key positions in the Islamic Republic - including deputy chairman of the Assembly of Experts, member of the Guardian Council, and Friday prayer leader in Qom. Ali Asghar Hejazi Hejazi is responsible for overseeing political security affairs at the Supreme Leader’s office. He is well-known for his behind-the-scenes influence. Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejei Mohseni Ejei is third in line, having spent decades in the judiciary and intelligence circles of Iran. He previously served as Iran’s intelligence minister under President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and has held various senior legal posts, including attorney general and judiciary spokesperson. Others in line In addition, some other contenders for the role are: Mohammad Golpayegani, the long-serving chief of Khamenei’s office; former foreign ministers Ali Akbar Velayati and Kamal Kharazi, and former parliament speaker Ali Larijani.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave multiple threats to Iran, including the assassination of its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In his recent interview with ABC News, Netanyahu said that if Israel were to kill Khamenei, the ongoing war could end.

If not Ali Khamenei then who? Top contenders who can replace Iran's Supreme Leader

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Wednesday (June 18) addressed the nation via a televised address, first after Israel's strike on Iran's nuclear facilities on Friday.Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said, “The Zionist regime has committed a serious mistake and must prepare to face the consequences. Iran will neither forgive the breach of its airspace nor forget the blood of its martyrs.”"They should know that Iran will not surrender and any US strike will have serious, irreparable consequences," he said.He said that "wise people who know Iran, its people, and its history never speak to this nation in the language of threats, because Iranians are not those who surrender".“The Iranian nation will stand firm against an imposed war, just as it will stand firm against an imposed peace, and this nation will not surrender to anyone in the face of imposition,” Tasnim news agency quotes him as saying.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-not-going-to-kill-khamenei-at-least-for-now-trump-warns-us-knows-where-iran-s-supreme-leader-is-hiding-but-rules-out-strike-1750178340493">'Not going to kill Khamenei, for now': Trump warns US knows where Iran’s Supreme Leader is hiding</a>Khamenei's statement comes after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) demanded a 'UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER' and claimed that the United States knows the exact location of Khamenei but will not kill him, at least for now.“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter,” Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.Multiple media reports circulating online claimed that Trump had recently turned down an Israeli proposal to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.When asked about these reports, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told ABC News on Monday that taking out Khamenei would not make the situation worse, but would end the conflict.“It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict,” he said, hinting that Israel has not ruled out taking out Iran's Supreme Leader.<h2>Israel-Iran war enters day six</h2>The latest round of hostilities between Israel and Iran entered its sixth day on Wednesday, as both countries continued exchanging heavy air strikes.The conflict began when Israel struck Iranian nuclear sites on Friday. Israel claimed Iran is secretly developing a nuclear weapon, something which Tehran has consistently denied.At least 224 people have been killed in Iran and 24 people killed in Israel since the conflict started.

Khamenei's statement comes after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) demanded a 'UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER' and claimed that the United States knows the exact location of Khamenei but will not kill him, at least for now.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Wednesday (June 18) addressed the nation via a televised address, first after Israel's strike on Iran's nuclear facilities on Friday. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei said, “The Zionist regime has committed a serious mistake and must prepare to face the consequences. Iran will neither forgive the breach of its airspace nor forget the blood of its martyrs.” "They should know that Iran will not surrender and any US strike will have serious, irreparable consequences," he said. He said that "wise people who know Iran, its people, and its history never speak to this nation in the language of threats, because Iranians are not those who surrender". “The Iranian nation will stand firm against an imposed war, just as it will stand firm against an imposed peace, and this nation will not surrender to anyone in the face of imposition,” Tasnim news agency quotes him as saying. Also read: 'Not going to kill Khamenei, for now': Trump warns US knows where Iran’s Supreme Leader is hiding Khamenei's statement comes after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) demanded a 'UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER' and claimed that the United States knows the exact location of Khamenei but will not kill him, at least for now. “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter,” Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. Multiple media reports circulating online claimed that Trump had recently turned down an Israeli proposal to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei. When asked about these reports, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told ABC News on Monday that taking out Khamenei would not make the situation worse, but would end the conflict. “It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict,” he said, hinting that Israel has not ruled out taking out Iran's Supreme Leader. Israel-Iran war enters day six The latest round of hostilities between Israel and Iran entered its sixth day on Wednesday, as both countries continued exchanging heavy air strikes. The conflict began when Israel struck Iranian nuclear sites on Friday. Israel claimed Iran is secretly developing a nuclear weapon, something which Tehran has consistently denied. At least 224 people have been killed in Iran and 24 people killed in Israel since the conflict started.

Khamenei's statement comes after US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) demanded a 'UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER' and claimed that the United States knows the exact location of Khamenei but will not kill him, at least for now.

'US strike will have serious consequences': Khamenei says 'Iran will not surrender' in first address after Israel's strike - Here's what he said

Israel-Iran War: The Middle East is in chaos after Israel and Iran landed into a massive war since Friday (June 13). It all started when Israel launched a barrage of missiles at Iran on Friday and killed its top officials. It's the fifth day into the war, and the dramatic exchange of aerial strikes is still ongoing between the two nations.&nbsp;Amid this chaos, one question has passed everyone's mind - how long can these countries keep up with this war?&nbsp;An unnamed US official has told The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) that Israel is already running low on defensive “Arrow” missile interceptors, and it's just the fifth day into the war. The situation has raised concerns that Israel may not last longer in the ongoing conflict with the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;Since the war was launched by Israel to remove the “existential threat” of the Iranian nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities, Tehran has launched 370 missiles and hundreds of drones at Israel. So far, around two dozen people have been killed and over 500 have been wounded in Israel. Donald Trump-led America is well aware of the shortage of Arrow and is working to support Israel with weapons, the reports said.&nbsp;But the American stocks are also limited.&nbsp;The US newspaper said that having dispatched many to Israel, “there is now concern about the US burning through interceptors as well."&nbsp;Meanwhile, a report was published in The Washington Post saying that Israel can maintain its air defence for only 10-12 days at the current rate of Iranian attacks. After this, the cited source said, Israel would need the US to enter the war against Iran.&nbsp;Moreover, Israel “will need to select what they want to intercept” later this week, the source told the American newspaper.&nbsp;“The system is already overwhelmed," they added.&nbsp;How is Israel handling the situation?&nbsp;&nbsp;Now, as Israeli media claimed, the Netanyahu-led regime deliberately lets some missiles fall, knowing that they will end up in open areas. But when it faces a large barrage of missiles from the Islamic Republic, Israel has been unable to shoot down all missiles that were headed towards populated areas.&nbsp;In the recent conflict, Iran has focused on dense population centres, meaning the few missiles that are not intercepted are more likely to cause harm.&nbsp;

Israel running low on missile interceptors? Can last only 10-12 days in war with Iran. Here is what is ahead for Netanyahu

Israel-Iran War: The Middle East is in chaos after Israel and Iran landed into a massive war since Friday (June 13). It all started when Israel launched a barrage of missiles at Iran on Friday and killed its top officials. It's the fifth day into the war, and the dramatic exchange of aerial strikes is still ongoing between the two nations. Amid this chaos, one question has passed everyone's mind - how long can these countries keep up with this war? An unnamed US official has told The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) that Israel is already running low on defensive “Arrow” missile interceptors, and it's just the fifth day into the war. The situation has raised concerns that Israel may not last longer in the ongoing conflict with the Islamic Republic. Since the war was launched by Israel to remove the “existential threat” of the Iranian nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities, Tehran has launched 370 missiles and hundreds of drones at Israel. So far, around two dozen people have been killed and over 500 have been wounded in Israel. Donald Trump-led America is well aware of the shortage of Arrow and is working to support Israel with weapons, the reports said. But the American stocks are also limited. The US newspaper said that having dispatched many to Israel, “there is now concern about the US burning through interceptors as well." Meanwhile, a report was published in The Washington Post saying that Israel can maintain its air defence for only 10-12 days at the current rate of Iranian attacks. After this, the cited source said, Israel would need the US to enter the war against Iran. Moreover, Israel “will need to select what they want to intercept” later this week, the source told the American newspaper. “The system is already overwhelmed," they added. How is Israel handling the situation? Now, as Israeli media claimed, the Netanyahu-led regime deliberately lets some missiles fall, knowing that they will end up in open areas. But when it faces a large barrage of missiles from the Islamic Republic, Israel has been unable to shoot down all missiles that were headed towards populated areas. In the recent conflict, Iran has focused on dense population centres, meaning the few missiles that are not intercepted are more likely to cause harm.

Amid the ongoing war with Iran, reports said that Israel is running low on missiles and weapons and can last only 10-12 days into the conflict. Sources have said that Netanyahu would need the US to jump in against Khamenei.&nbsp;

Israel running low on missile interceptors? Can last only '10-12 days' in war with Iran. Here's what's ahead for Netanyahu

The Israel-Iran war has seen some of the most high-profile assassinations in recent years, including top aides of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, commanders of the regular army and parallel military force IRGC, as well as several nuclear scientists. But in the blood-stained history of modern Iran, such assassinations and targeted killings are nothing new. Those killed include presidents and prime ministers, as well as military chiefs. The murders were carried out by the Iran regime, Iran's foreign enemies like Israel, or by groups opposed to the Islamic Republic. Here is a look at major assassinations in Iran since it achieved nationhood.<h2>Political assassinations linked to the Pahlavi Dynasty (1925–1979)</h2>Prime Minister Abdolhossein Hazhir was shot dead in Tehran on 4 November 1948 by a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam, a radical Islamist group. The pro-West politician was killed for backing the monarchy and alleged foreign influence.&nbsp; Another Prime Minister Haj Ali Razmara was assassinated on 7 March 1951 outside the Baharestan Mosque in Tehran.&nbsp;The assassin was a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam. The PM was killed for his secular policies and for holding talks with the British on nationalisation of Iran's oil. Prime Minister Amir-Abbas Hoveida,&nbsp;who had already faced an assassination attempt, was executed on 7 April 1979. Hoveida was a long-serving prime minister under the Shah regime, having been in the post from 1965 to 1977. After the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Hoveida was executed at the end of a summary trial by the Islamic Revolutionary Court. He was one of the many Pahlavi-era elites eliminated by the Islamic Republic regime. &nbsp;Shahriar Shafiq, a nephew of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and Naval officer, was shot dead in Paris on 7 December 1979. Later, an Iranian official claimed responsibility. This was an instance of how the Islamic Republic regime targeted loyalists of the Shah regime abroad. Shapour Bakhtiar, the last prime minister under the Shah, who was opposed to the Islamic Revolution, was also killed abroad. While living in exile, Baktiar was stabbed to death in Paris by Iranian intelligence operatives posing as businessmen, on 6 August 1991.<h2>Killings of key figures associated with Islamic Republic: The 1981 mayhem</h2>The killings of top leaders associated with the 1979 Islamic Revolution started as early as 1981. That year saw assassinations of at least four major figures, including a prime minister, a president and a chief justice. Notably, &nbsp;the same year saw an assassination attempt on Ali Khamenei, then a presidential candidate, but he survived. &nbsp;Mohammad Beheshti, the Chief Justice under the Islamic Republic, was killed in a bombing on 28 June 1981 at the Islamic Republic Party headquarters in Tehran. The People’s Mujahedin of Iran or MEK was behind the attack that also killed 70 other high-ranking officials. Beheshti was a key figure in establishing the judiciary of the Islamic Republic.<h2>A single bombing that wiped out the political leaders of Iran</h2>One of the most high-profile attacks that caused multiple assassinations was a bombing of the presidential office in Tehran on 30 August 1981. The blast killed President Mohammad Ali Rajai,&nbsp;Prime Minister Mohammad Javad Bahonar and Colonel Vahid Dastjardi, the head of the national police. The MEK was responsible for the attack that targeted the regime’s leadership. Bahonar, a cleric, was a key ideologue of the Islamic Republic, while Dastjardi was a senior security official, making him among the first military-related targets of the Islamic Republic. Ali Sayad Shirazi, Chief Commander of the Army was shot dead on 10 April 1999 outside his home in Tehran by an MEK operative. Shirazi was a key military figure during the Iran-Iraq War, serving as the deputy chief of the General Staff when he was killed.<h2>Iranian regime's ‘chain murders’ targeting intellectuals and secularists</h2>The Islamic Republic regime targeted many dissidents and intellectuals opposed to the regime in the 1980s and 90s. Most prominent among these was the ‘chain murders’ of 1998. These were targeted killings of secular activists orchestrated by Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence. &nbsp;Among the victims was Dariush Forouhar, Minister of Labor under Pahlavi era, &nbsp;killed on 22 November 1998 along with his wife. The couple was stabbed to death at their home in Tehran.<h2> The military chiefs taken out from 2020 to 2024</h2>The killings of military leaders of Iran were among the top priorities of its enemies, particularly Israel and the US. The most prominent among these is Qasem Soleimani, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. On 3 January 2020, he was assassinated in a US drone strike near Baghdad International Airport in Iraq. Soleimani was not just another military official: he was an awe-inspiring leader of Iran who played a major role in regional operations that included training and arming anti-Israel militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Soleimani was targeted by the US administration of Donald Trump during his first term in office, with reported help from Israel.&nbsp; &nbsp;On 1 April, 2024, Israel conducted an air strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, killing Mohammad Reza Zahedi, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. Zahedi was a senior commander overseeing IRGC operations in Syria and Lebanon, and the highest-ranking IRGC officer killed since Soleimani.<h2> Wiped out: Top leaders and military officials killed in the June 2025 Israeli strikes on Iran</h2>Numerous senior officials, both political and military chiefs, were killed during the first days of Israel's military offensive against Iran. They were killed between June 13, when the operation started, and June 15. Among the political figures, the most prominent to have been killed was Ali Shamkhani, senior Adviser to Supreme Leader. Shamkhani was a former IRGC Navy commander who served as national security chief in 2013–2023. He was also a top nuclear negotiator of Iran. Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran during the ongoing Operation Rising Lion. Bagheri was the highest-ranking military official under Supreme Leader Khamenei, and had coordinated operations of Iran’s regular armed forces and the IRGC. The same Israeli attack also killed Hossein Salami, the IRGC Commander-in-Chief. Salami was a &nbsp;major general leading the IRGC since 2019. Gholamali Rashid, Commander of Khatam-al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, was another military leader killed in the Israeli offensive in Tehran. The major general used to coordinate joint military operations between the IRGC and the regular army. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, IRGC Aerospace Force Commander who oversaw Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programmes, was also killed in the Israeli airstrike. &nbsp;He was among the architects of Iranian attacks on Israel in 2024, in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Mohammad Kazemi, IRGC Intelligence Chief was killed in the Israeli airstrike in Tehran on June 15, along with Hassan Mohaqiq, IRGC Intelligence Deputy Chief.&nbsp;Mohsen Bagheri, IRGC Intelligence Officer,&nbsp; was also killed in the same airstrike.&nbsp;Gholamreza Mehrabi, Deputy Intelligence Chief of Armed Forces , Mehdi Rabbani, Deputy Commander of Operations for Armed Forces, Davood Sheikhian, Air Defense Commander, and Khosro Hassani, Deputy Intelligence Chief of IRGC Aerospace Unit were all killed in Israeli air strikes on 13 June.&nbsp; Those killed by Israel this month were key figures of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's inner circle. There is talk in the international media that Khamenei himself might soon become a target of assassination. That, if it happens, would be the most high-profile assassination in the blood-stained history of modern-day Iran.

Story of modern Iran is pockmarked by assassinations of political and military leaders, intellectuals, activists and dissidents inside the country and abroad. 

The Israel-Iran war has seen some of the most high-profile assassinations in recent years, including top aides of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, commanders of the regular army and parallel military force IRGC, as well as several nuclear scientists. But in the blood-stained history of modern Iran, such assassinations and targeted killings are nothing new. Those killed include presidents and prime ministers, as well as military chiefs. The murders were carried out by the Iran regime, Iran's foreign enemies like Israel, or by groups opposed to the Islamic Republic. Here is a look at major assassinations in Iran since it achieved nationhood. Political assassinations linked to the Pahlavi Dynasty (1925–1979) Prime Minister Abdolhossein Hazhir was shot dead in Tehran on 4 November 1948 by a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam, a radical Islamist group. The pro-West politician was killed for backing the monarchy and alleged foreign influence. Another Prime Minister Haj Ali Razmara was assassinated on 7 March 1951 outside the Baharestan Mosque in Tehran. The assassin was a member of the Fada’iyan-e Islam. The PM was killed for his secular policies and for holding talks with the British on nationalisation of Iran's oil. Prime Minister Amir-Abbas Hoveida, who had already faced an assassination attempt, was executed on 7 April 1979. Hoveida was a long-serving prime minister under the Shah regime, having been in the post from 1965 to 1977. After the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Hoveida was executed at the end of a summary trial by the Islamic Revolutionary Court. He was one of the many Pahlavi-era elites eliminated by the Islamic Republic regime. Shahriar Shafiq, a nephew of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and Naval officer, was shot dead in Paris on 7 December 1979. Later, an Iranian official claimed responsibility. This was an instance of how the Islamic Republic regime targeted loyalists of the Shah regime abroad. Shapour Bakhtiar, the last prime minister under the Shah, who was opposed to the Islamic Revolution, was also killed abroad. While living in exile, Baktiar was stabbed to death in Paris by Iranian intelligence operatives posing as businessmen, on 6 August 1991. Killings of key figures associated with Islamic Republic: The 1981 mayhem The killings of top leaders associated with the 1979 Islamic Revolution started as early as 1981. That year saw assassinations of at least four major figures, including a prime minister, a president and a chief justice. Notably, the same year saw an assassination attempt on Ali Khamenei, then a presidential candidate, but he survived. Mohammad Beheshti, the Chief Justice under the Islamic Republic, was killed in a bombing on 28 June 1981 at the Islamic Republic Party headquarters in Tehran. The People’s Mujahedin of Iran or MEK was behind the attack that also killed 70 other high-ranking officials. Beheshti was a key figure in establishing the judiciary of the Islamic Republic. A single bombing that wiped out the political leaders of Iran One of the most high-profile attacks that caused multiple assassinations was a bombing of the presidential office in Tehran on 30 August 1981. The blast killed President Mohammad Ali Rajai, Prime Minister Mohammad Javad Bahonar and Colonel Vahid Dastjardi, the head of the national police. The MEK was responsible for the attack that targeted the regime’s leadership. Bahonar, a cleric, was a key ideologue of the Islamic Republic, while Dastjardi was a senior security official, making him among the first military-related targets of the Islamic Republic. Ali Sayad Shirazi, Chief Commander of the Army was shot dead on 10 April 1999 outside his home in Tehran by an MEK operative. Shirazi was a key military figure during the Iran-Iraq War, serving as the deputy chief of the General Staff when he was killed. Iranian regime's ‘chain murders’ targeting intellectuals and secularists The Islamic Republic regime targeted many dissidents and intellectuals opposed to the regime in the 1980s and 90s. Most prominent among these was the ‘chain murders’ of 1998. These were targeted killings of secular activists orchestrated by Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence. Among the victims was Dariush Forouhar, Minister of Labor under Pahlavi era, killed on 22 November 1998 along with his wife. The couple was stabbed to death at their home in Tehran. The military chiefs taken out from 2020 to 2024 The killings of military leaders of Iran were among the top priorities of its enemies, particularly Israel and the US. The most prominent among these is Qasem Soleimani, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. On 3 January 2020, he was assassinated in a US drone strike near Baghdad International Airport in Iraq. Soleimani was not just another military official: he was an awe-inspiring leader of Iran who played a major role in regional operations that included training and arming anti-Israel militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. Soleimani was targeted by the US administration of Donald Trump during his first term in office, with reported help from Israel. On 1 April, 2024, Israel conducted an air strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria, killing Mohammad Reza Zahedi, the commander of IRGC's Quds Force. Zahedi was a senior commander overseeing IRGC operations in Syria and Lebanon, and the highest-ranking IRGC officer killed since Soleimani. Wiped out: Top leaders and military officials killed in the June 2025 Israeli strikes on Iran Numerous senior officials, both political and military chiefs, were killed during the first days of Israel's military offensive against Iran. They were killed between June 13, when the operation started, and June 15. Among the political figures, the most prominent to have been killed was Ali Shamkhani, senior Adviser to Supreme Leader. Shamkhani was a former IRGC Navy commander who served as national security chief in 2013–2023. He was also a top nuclear negotiator of Iran. Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Tehran during the ongoing Operation Rising Lion. Bagheri was the highest-ranking military official under Supreme Leader Khamenei, and had coordinated operations of Iran’s regular armed forces and the IRGC. The same Israeli attack also killed Hossein Salami, the IRGC Commander-in-Chief. Salami was a major general leading the IRGC since 2019. Gholamali Rashid, Commander of Khatam-al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, was another military leader killed in the Israeli offensive in Tehran. The major general used to coordinate joint military operations between the IRGC and the regular army. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, IRGC Aerospace Force Commander who oversaw Iran’s ballistic missile and drone programmes, was also killed in the Israeli airstrike. He was among the architects of Iranian attacks on Israel in 2024, in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza. Mohammad Kazemi, IRGC Intelligence Chief was killed in the Israeli airstrike in Tehran on June 15, along with Hassan Mohaqiq, IRGC Intelligence Deputy Chief. Mohsen Bagheri, IRGC Intelligence Officer, was also killed in the same airstrike. Gholamreza Mehrabi, Deputy Intelligence Chief of Armed Forces , Mehdi Rabbani, Deputy Commander of Operations for Armed Forces, Davood Sheikhian, Air Defense Commander, and Khosro Hassani, Deputy Intelligence Chief of IRGC Aerospace Unit were all killed in Israeli air strikes on 13 June. Those killed by Israel this month were key figures of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's inner circle. There is talk in the international media that Khamenei himself might soon become a target of assassination. That, if it happens, would be the most high-profile assassination in the blood-stained history of modern-day Iran.

Modern Iran's history is pockmarked by assassinations of political and military leaders, intellectuals, activists and dissidents inside the country and abroad.&nbsp;

Assassination Nation: From PMs and presidents to military chiefs, modern Iran's story is marked by murders of its top leaders

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing tensions with Iran, the Israeli military claimed that on Wednesday (June 18), it launched an extensive airstrike on Iran's military infrastructure using 50 fighter jets. The IDF also said that the Iranian centrifuge production site in Tehran was also targeted in the overnight strike. The strikes came as one of the most significant attacks in the ongoing war between the Israeli Republic and Netanyahu's regime.&nbsp;Taking to the social media platform X, the IDF said it had attacked a "centrifuge production site and several weapons production sites of the Iranian regime last night."&nbsp;The Israeli Army said, "More than 50 Air Force fighter jets, under precise intelligence guidance from the Intelligence Branch, have completed a series of attacks on military targets in the Tehran area in recent hours."The IDF said that the site in Tehran attacked was responsible for expanding the scope and rate of Iran's uranium enrichment to develop nuclear weapons.&nbsp;Moreover, Israel also claimed of attacked several weapons production sites of the Islamic Republic.The Israeli Army said that among the attacked plants, "a site for the production of raw materials and components for assembling the surface-to-surface missiles that the Iranian regime has launched and continues to launch towards the State of Israel," was also included.&nbsp;Israel said the attack was aimed at the IDF's effort to damage the Iranian regime's nuclear weapons program. &nbsp;&nbsp;Why is it a big deal?&nbsp;Centrifuges are essential to uranium enrichment. It is a process to refine uranium for civilian energy use - and for nuclear weapons production.&nbsp;Centrifuges are very delicate machines and are used to spin uranium hexafluoride gas at extremely high speeds. Hence, even a minor disruption like a power cut can collapse the entire process.&nbsp;How bad is the situation for Iran?&nbsp;&nbsp;This came after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that there is a strong possibility that all the 15,000 centrifuges (roughly), operating at Iran's biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz, were badly damaged or destroyed in the ongoing war, either by Israeli strikes or a power cut.&nbsp;Previously, Israel targeted the Isfahan uranium conversion facility, which turns raw mined uranium into uranium hexafluoride (UF6), a feed gas for centrifuges.&nbsp;&nbsp;IAEA chief Rafael Grossi elaborated on the damage to four buildings at Isfahan - “The central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant and the UF4 [uranium tetrafluoride] to EU [enriched uranium] metal processing facility, which was under construction.”&nbsp;In addition, an unnamed Israeli official told the news agency Reuters that the Fordo plant, built into a mountain near the holy central city of Qom, has not been attacked yet, but it might happen.&nbsp;This was days after Israel’s ambassador in Washington, Yechiel Leiter, told Fox News that this entire war between Israel and Iran will have to be "completed with the elimination of Fordo."&nbsp;He said there was no point in this entire war if Israel left an infrastructure like &nbsp;Fordo in place.&nbsp;

Israel strikes Iran centrifuge production and weapons manufacturing sites - why it is a big blow to Khamenei nuke desire | WION Explains 

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing tensions with Iran, the Israeli military claimed that on Wednesday (June 18), it launched an extensive airstrike on Iran's military infrastructure using 50 fighter jets. The IDF also said that the Iranian centrifuge production site in Tehran was also targeted in the overnight strike. The strikes came as one of the most significant attacks in the ongoing war between the Israeli Republic and Netanyahu's regime. Taking to the social media platform X, the IDF said it had attacked a "centrifuge production site and several weapons production sites of the Iranian regime last night." The Israeli Army said, "More than 50 Air Force fighter jets, under precise intelligence guidance from the Intelligence Branch, have completed a series of attacks on military targets in the Tehran area in recent hours." The IDF said that the site in Tehran attacked was responsible for expanding the scope and rate of Iran's uranium enrichment to develop nuclear weapons. Moreover, Israel also claimed of attacked several weapons production sites of the Islamic Republic. The Israeli Army said that among the attacked plants, "a site for the production of raw materials and components for assembling the surface-to-surface missiles that the Iranian regime has launched and continues to launch towards the State of Israel," was also included. Israel said the attack was aimed at the IDF's effort to damage the Iranian regime's nuclear weapons program. Why is it a big deal? Centrifuges are essential to uranium enrichment. It is a process to refine uranium for civilian energy use - and for nuclear weapons production. Centrifuges are very delicate machines and are used to spin uranium hexafluoride gas at extremely high speeds. Hence, even a minor disruption like a power cut can collapse the entire process. How bad is the situation for Iran? This came after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said that there is a strong possibility that all the 15,000 centrifuges (roughly), operating at Iran's biggest uranium enrichment plant at Natanz, were badly damaged or destroyed in the ongoing war, either by Israeli strikes or a power cut. Previously, Israel targeted the Isfahan uranium conversion facility, which turns raw mined uranium into uranium hexafluoride (UF6), a feed gas for centrifuges. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi elaborated on the damage to four buildings at Isfahan - “The central chemical laboratory, a uranium conversion plant, the Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant and the UF4 [uranium tetrafluoride] to EU [enriched uranium] metal processing facility, which was under construction.” In addition, an unnamed Israeli official told the news agency Reuters that the Fordo plant, built into a mountain near the holy central city of Qom, has not been attacked yet, but it might happen. This was days after Israel’s ambassador in Washington, Yechiel Leiter, told Fox News that this entire war between Israel and Iran will have to be "completed with the elimination of Fordo." He said there was no point in this entire war if Israel left an infrastructure like Fordo in place.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the IDF has claimed of struck Iran's centrifuge production and weapons manufacturing sites. The strike came as one of the most significant attacks in the ongoing war between the Israeli Republic and Netanyahu's regime.

Israel strikes Iran centrifuge production and weapons manufacturing sites - why it's a big blow to Khamenei's nuke desire | WION Explains

Israel-Iran War: Earlier this year, Donald Trump's national intelligence director, Tulsi Gabbard has denied the speculation that Iran was building a nuclear weapon. While testifying to Congress about Iran's nuclear program, Gabbard said the Islamic nation was not building any nuke weapons. She also clarified that the Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had not authorised the dormant program even though it had enriched uranium to higher levels.But the American president, amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, has said that he does not care what his intelligence agency said and claimed that Iran was "very close" to having a nuclear bomb.&nbsp;While on his flight to Washington after abruptly leaving the G7 Summit in France, the US president said, "I don't care what she [Gabbard] said." Contrary to his spy agency's clarification, Trump said Khamenei is near to having a nuke weapon soon.&nbsp;Trump's statement was closer to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu than his own intelligence adviser.Moreover, after Trump's statement, the US administration downplayed the inconsistency between the statements of its two officials, saying that enriching uranium can put Iran on track to having a nuclear weapon.Gabbard blamed the media for misconstruing her earlier testimony, asserting that "President Trump was saying the same thing that I said."&nbsp;"We are on the same page," she told CNN.&nbsp;What did Gabbard say?&nbsp;In her March testimony to lawmakers, Gabbard said the intelligence community "continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons program he suspended in 2003."&nbsp;She had also said that Iran's "enriched uranium stockpile is at its highest levels and is unprecedented for a state without nuclear weapons."&nbsp;Meanwhile, Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, who is the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said he had no idea of any latest information that would change the assessment of Iran's nuclear capabilities.&nbsp;"Director Gabbard stated publicly in March that the Iranians were not actively pursuing a bomb," Warner said.&nbsp;"I've seen nothing in recent intelligence that contradicts what Director Gabbard said," he added.&nbsp; &nbsp;

US administration not on same page over Iran nuke capabilities? Trump says he does not care what his spy agency says 


Israel-Iran War: Earlier this year, Donald Trump's national intelligence director, Tulsi Gabbard has denied the speculation that Iran was building a nuclear weapon. While testifying to Congress about Iran's nuclear program, Gabbard said the Islamic nation was not building any nuke weapons. She also clarified that the Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had not authorised the dormant program even though it had enriched uranium to higher levels. But the American president, amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, has said that he does not care what his intelligence agency said and claimed that Iran was "very close" to having a nuclear bomb. While on his flight to Washington after abruptly leaving the G7 Summit in France, the US president said, "I don't care what she [Gabbard] said." Contrary to his spy agency's clarification, Trump said Khamenei is near to having a nuke weapon soon. Trump's statement was closer to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu than his own intelligence adviser. Moreover, after Trump's statement, the US administration downplayed the inconsistency between the statements of its two officials, saying that enriching uranium can put Iran on track to having a nuclear weapon. Gabbard blamed the media for misconstruing her earlier testimony, asserting that "President Trump was saying the same thing that I said." "We are on the same page," she told CNN. What did Gabbard say? In her March testimony to lawmakers, Gabbard said the intelligence community "continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons program he suspended in 2003." She had also said that Iran's "enriched uranium stockpile is at its highest levels and is unprecedented for a state without nuclear weapons." Meanwhile, Senator Mark Warner of Virginia, who is the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, said he had no idea of any latest information that would change the assessment of Iran's nuclear capabilities. "Director Gabbard stated publicly in March that the Iranians were not actively pursuing a bomb," Warner said. "I've seen nothing in recent intelligence that contradicts what Director Gabbard said," he added.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Trump administration was seen contradicting its own stance on Iran's nuclear capabilities. Earlier, Trump's spy agency chief, Tulsi Gabbard, had said Iran was not preparing any nuke weapons, but now Trump said he doesn't care what she said. &nbsp;

US administration not on same page over Iran's nuke capabilities? Trump says he 'doesn't care' what his spy agency says

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei released a threatening message for Israel - but this time, in Hebrew. Taking to the social media platform X, Khamenei wrote a third threatening message of the day against Israel, saying, "We must act with force against the terrorist Zionist entity."&nbsp;"We will not be merciful toward the Zionists,” he added.&nbsp;Earlier, Khamenei had issued two threatening messages for Israel - one in English and the other in Persian.&nbsp;Apparently, Khamenei has three different X accounts for three different languages - English, Persian and Hebrew, and he posts on these accounts based on the people he is aiming at while sharing a message.&nbsp;The threat came amid reports that the US is likely to join Israel in the airstrikes on Iran targeting nuclear sites.After his hint that the US could get "involved" in the ongoing Israel-Iran war, several American agencies are reporting that President Donald Trump is now considering joining Israel's strikes on Iran. Multiple reports have claimed that the Republican will soon likely join the strikes against the nuclear facilities of the Islamic Republic

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">יש לפעול בעוצמה נגד הישות הציונית הטרוריסטית. לא ננהג בסלחנות כלפי הציונים.&mdash; Khamenei.ir Hebrew (@Khamenei_Heb) <a href="https://twitter.com/Khamenei_Heb/status/1935137873939796024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This came after the American president held a one-hour-and-20-minute meeting with his national security team in the White House Situation Room on Tuesday (June 17).&nbsp;Trump wants 'real end' to Iran's nuke desires&nbsp;Meanwhile, a senior White House reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs, posted on the social media platform X, saying that Trump told her that he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran.&nbsp;"I didn't say I was looking for a ceasefire," the American president said on AF1. Trump said he wants a "real end" to the conflict by making Iran give up "entirely" on its nuclear aims.&nbsp;Moreover, Trump also hinted that Israel is not planning to slow down its strikes on Iran any time soon. Rather, he predicted that in the coming two days, people will "find out" what's going to happen.&nbsp;Is Iran prepared against US?&nbsp;Meanwhile, a New York Times report said that Iran is prepared with missiles and military equipment to strike US bases if America joins Israel in the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Khamenei issues 3rd threatening message of the day to Israel - this time in Hebrew. Here is what he says

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei released a threatening message for Israel - but this time, in Hebrew. Taking to the social media platform X, Khamenei wrote a third threatening message of the day against Israel, saying, "We must act with force against the terrorist Zionist entity." "We will not be merciful toward the Zionists,” he added. Earlier, Khamenei had issued two threatening messages for Israel - one in English and the other in Persian. Apparently, Khamenei has three different X accounts for three different languages - English, Persian and Hebrew, and he posts on these accounts based on the people he is aiming at while sharing a message. The threat came amid reports that the US is likely to join Israel in the airstrikes on Iran targeting nuclear sites. After his hint that the US could get "involved" in the ongoing Israel-Iran war, several American agencies are reporting that President Donald Trump is now considering joining Israel's strikes on Iran. Multiple reports have claimed that the Republican will soon likely join the strikes against the nuclear facilities of the Islamic Republic

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei released a threatening message for Israel - but this time, in Hebrew. Khamenei said, "We must act with force against the terrorist Zionist entity."

Iran's Khamenei issues 3rd threatening message of the day to Israel - this time in Hebrew. Here's what he says

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is truly one of the most remarkable aircraft ever built. This massive bomber has been serving the United States Air Force since 1961 and continues to be one of their most important weapons even today. What makes this aircraft so special that it has remained in service for more than six decades?<h2>A Giant in the Sky</h2> The B-52 is an enormous aircraft that commands respect wherever it flies. With a wingspan of 185 feet, this bomber is so wide that it cannot take off or land normally on runways when there are crosswinds. Boeing engineers had to design special landing gear that could turn and align with the runway, allowing the aircraft to land safely even in challenging conditions.&nbsp;The aircraft stretches 159 feet in length and stands 40 feet tall – roughly the height of a four-story building. When empty, it weighs about 83,250 kg, but when fully loaded for a mission, it can weigh up to 219,600 kg. To put this in perspective, that's heavier than 150 cars combined!<h2>Eight Engines of Power</h2> What keeps this massive aircraft in the air? Eight powerful Pratt &amp; Whitney turbofan engines, each capable of producing up to 17,000 pounds of thrust. These engines allow the B-52 to cruise at speeds of up to 650 mph and reach altitudes of 50,000 feet, high enough to fly above most commercial aircraft.&nbsp;The bomber can carry an incredible 141,670 litres of fuel, which gives it an impressive range of 8,800 miles. This means a B-52 can fly from New Delhi to London and back without refuelling, making it perfect for long-range missions anywhere in the world.<h2>A Weapons Platform Like No Other</h2> The B-52's most impressive feature is its ability to carry up to 31,500 kg of weapons – that's equivalent to the weight of about 20 cars! The aircraft can carry everything from traditional bombs to smart weapons, missiles, and mines. Recent upgrades have made it even more versatile by allowing it to carry GPS-guided "smart" weapons in its internal weapons bay for the first time.The bomber's internal weapons bay has been upgraded with special rotary launchers that can carry and launch eight Joint Direct Attack Munitions at once. These launchers can be moved from one aircraft to another, giving the Air Force flexibility in its operations. Future upgrades will add the ability to carry even more advanced missiles and decoy systems.<h2>Built to Last Generations</h2> Perhaps the most amazing fact about the B-52 is its incredible longevity. Boeing built 744 of these aircraft, with the last one delivered in October 1962 – over 60 years ago! Today, only the H model remains in service, but engineering studies suggest these aircraft could continue flying beyond 2040. This means some B-52s might serve for nearly 80 years – longer than most people live!<h2>Adapting to Modern Warfare</h2> Originally designed during the Cold War as a high-altitude nuclear bomber, the B-52 has continuously evolved to meet changing military needs. The aircraft originally had a gunner positioned in the tail with defensive machine guns, but after the Gulf War in the early 1990s, these defensive systems were removed as they were no longer needed.&nbsp;Today's B-52 is operated by a crew of five: an aircraft commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator, and electronic warfare officer. Each crew member plays a crucial role in ensuring the aircraft can complete its missions safely and effectively.<h2>A Strategic Asset</h2> The B-52 remains a critical part of America's defense strategy because of its unique combination of capabilities. Its high mission-ready rate means it's almost always available when needed. Its large payload capacity allows it to carry massive amounts of weapons. Its long range means it can strike targets anywhere in the world. Its ability to stay in the air for extended periods makes it perfect for long missions.&nbsp;The aircraft serves with the Air Force Global Strike Command and continues to be one of the most combat-capable bombers in the US military inventory. Whether carrying nuclear weapons for deterrence or conventional weapons for precision strikes, the B-52 provides America with immediate global strike capability.<h2>B-52 in Current Conflicts: The Iran-Israel War of 2025</h2> The B-52 has once again found itself at the center of global military discussions during the ongoing Iran-Israel War that began on June 13, 2025, when Israel launched "Operation Rising Lion" against Iranian nuclear and military facilities. As the conflict enters its fifth day with both sides exchanging deadly missile attacks, President Donald Trump has issued warnings to Iran and is reportedly considering whether to provide direct military support to Israel.&nbsp;One key challenge in this conflict is Iran's Fordow nuclear enrichment facility, which is buried 60 to 90 meters underground in a mountain, making it extremely difficult for conventional Israeli weapons to destroy completely. While the B-52 has been tested with bunker-buster capabilities, only the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber is currently configured to carry the GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) – the 13,600 kg "bunker-buster" bomb that could potentially neutralise Fordow.<h2>High-Powered Warhead Composition and Payload</h2> This advanced warhead carries a powerful explosive payload totalling 2,423 kilograms. It includes 2,082 kg of AFX-757, a modern military explosive known for its high energy and thermal stability. AFX stands for "Advanced Fire-resistant Explosive," designed to withstand extreme conditions without accidental detonation. Alongside it is 341 kg of PBXN-114, a type of plastic-bonded explosive (PBX) that combines high performance with improved safety. PBXNs are explosives mixed with polymers to reduce sensitivity to shock and heat. Together, these compounds make the warhead highly effective and stable under combat conditions.&nbsp;The GBU-57/B MOP represents the most powerful non-nuclear bunker-penetrating weapon in the world. This precision-guided bomb weighs approximately 13,600 kg (30,000 pounds), measures 6.2 meters in length with a diameter of 80 cm, and contains about 2,400 kg of explosive warhead. The weapon can penetrate up to 61 meters (200 feet) of reinforced concrete or soil before detonating, and multiple bombs can be dropped successively to drill even deeper with each blast. It uses GPS and inertial navigation systems for precision targeting and features a sophisticated "smart fuze" that can adjust detonation timing based on the target's depth and configuration.&nbsp;The bomb works by using its massive weight and speed gained from high-altitude drops to penetrate through layers of rock and concrete, with advanced fuzing systems that detect when it has reached the optimal depth before exploding.&nbsp;However, while the B-52 has been used in testing of the MOP, currently only the B-2 Spirit is operationally configured to deliver this weapon in combat.<h2>The Flying Legend Lives On</h2> The strategic implications are significant – any use of American bunker-buster bombs would require U.S. aircraft and could jeopardise Trump’s stated desire for diplomatic talks with Iran about its nuclear program. Military experts note that destroying facilities like Fordow represents a unique American capability, as Israel lacks the heavy bunker-busting munitions needed for such deeply buried targets. This situation highlights how the B-52, while incredibly versatile, operates alongside other specialised aircraft like the B-2 Spirit in America’s strategic bombing capability, each platform optimised for specific mission requirements in an increasingly complex global security environment.&nbsp;The B-52 Stratofortress stands as a testament to exceptional engineering and design. Few aircraft have served as long or as effectively as this flying giant. As military technology continues to advance, the B-52 adapts and evolves, proving that sometimes the best designs are truly timeless. For military aviation enthusiasts and general readers alike, the B-52 represents the incredible achievement of human engineering – a machine that has quite literally stood the test of time and continues to soar through the skies as America's trusted guardian.&nbsp;

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is truly one of the most remarkable aircraft ever built. This massive bomber has been serving the United States Air Force since 1961. What makes this aircraft so special that it has remained in service for more than six decades?

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is truly one of the most remarkable aircraft ever built. This massive bomber has been serving the United States Air Force since 1961 and continues to be one of their most important weapons even today. What makes this aircraft so special that it has remained in service for more than six decades? A Giant in the Sky The B-52 is an enormous aircraft that commands respect wherever it flies. With a wingspan of 185 feet, this bomber is so wide that it cannot take off or land normally on runways when there are crosswinds. Boeing engineers had to design special landing gear that could turn and align with the runway, allowing the aircraft to land safely even in challenging conditions. The aircraft stretches 159 feet in length and stands 40 feet tall – roughly the height of a four-story building. When empty, it weighs about 83,250 kg, but when fully loaded for a mission, it can weigh up to 219,600 kg. To put this in perspective, that's heavier than 150 cars combined! Eight Engines of Power What keeps this massive aircraft in the air? Eight powerful Pratt & Whitney turbofan engines, each capable of producing up to 17,000 pounds of thrust. These engines allow the B-52 to cruise at speeds of up to 650 mph and reach altitudes of 50,000 feet, high enough to fly above most commercial aircraft. The bomber can carry an incredible 141,670 litres of fuel, which gives it an impressive range of 8,800 miles. This means a B-52 can fly from New Delhi to London and back without refuelling, making it perfect for long-range missions anywhere in the world. A Weapons Platform Like No Other The B-52's most impressive feature is its ability to carry up to 31,500 kg of weapons – that's equivalent to the weight of about 20 cars! The aircraft can carry everything from traditional bombs to smart weapons, missiles, and mines. Recent upgrades have made it even more versatile by allowing it to carry GPS-guided "smart" weapons in its internal weapons bay for the first time. The bomber's internal weapons bay has been upgraded with special rotary launchers that can carry and launch eight Joint Direct Attack Munitions at once. These launchers can be moved from one aircraft to another, giving the Air Force flexibility in its operations. Future upgrades will add the ability to carry even more advanced missiles and decoy systems. Built to Last Generations Perhaps the most amazing fact about the B-52 is its incredible longevity. Boeing built 744 of these aircraft, with the last one delivered in October 1962 – over 60 years ago! Today, only the H model remains in service, but engineering studies suggest these aircraft could continue flying beyond 2040. This means some B-52s might serve for nearly 80 years – longer than most people live! Adapting to Modern Warfare Originally designed during the Cold War as a high-altitude nuclear bomber, the B-52 has continuously evolved to meet changing military needs. The aircraft originally had a gunner positioned in the tail with defensive machine guns, but after the Gulf War in the early 1990s, these defensive systems were removed as they were no longer needed. Today's B-52 is operated by a crew of five: an aircraft commander, pilot, radar navigator, navigator, and electronic warfare officer. Each crew member plays a crucial role in ensuring the aircraft can complete its missions safely and effectively. A Strategic Asset The B-52 remains a critical part of America's defense strategy because of its unique combination of capabilities. Its high mission-ready rate means it's almost always available when needed. Its large payload capacity allows it to carry massive amounts of weapons. Its long range means it can strike targets anywhere in the world. Its ability to stay in the air for extended periods makes it perfect for long missions. The aircraft serves with the Air Force Global Strike Command and continues to be one of the most combat-capable bombers in the US military inventory. Whether carrying nuclear weapons for deterrence or conventional weapons for precision strikes, the B-52 provides America with immediate global strike capability. B-52 in Current Conflicts: The Iran-Israel War of 2025 The B-52 has once again found itself at the center of global military discussions during the ongoing Iran-Israel War that began on June 13, 2025, when Israel launched "Operation Rising Lion" against Iranian nuclear and military facilities. As the conflict enters its fifth day with both sides exchanging deadly missile attacks, President Donald Trump has issued warnings to Iran and is reportedly considering whether to provide direct military support to Israel. One key challenge in this conflict is Iran's Fordow nuclear enrichment facility, which is buried 60 to 90 meters underground in a mountain, making it extremely difficult for conventional Israeli weapons to destroy completely. While the B-52 has been tested with bunker-buster capabilities, only the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber is currently configured to carry the GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) – the 13,600 kg "bunker-buster" bomb that could potentially neutralise Fordow. High-Powered Warhead Composition and Payload This advanced warhead carries a powerful explosive payload totalling 2,423 kilograms. It includes 2,082 kg of AFX-757, a modern military explosive known for its high energy and thermal stability. AFX stands for "Advanced Fire-resistant Explosive," designed to withstand extreme conditions without accidental detonation. Alongside it is 341 kg of PBXN-114, a type of plastic-bonded explosive (PBX) that combines high performance with improved safety. PBXNs are explosives mixed with polymers to reduce sensitivity to shock and heat. Together, these compounds make the warhead highly effective and stable under combat conditions. The GBU-57/B MOP represents the most powerful non-nuclear bunker-penetrating weapon in the world. This precision-guided bomb weighs approximately 13,600 kg (30,000 pounds), measures 6.2 meters in length with a diameter of 80 cm, and contains about 2,400 kg of explosive warhead. The weapon can penetrate up to 61 meters (200 feet) of reinforced concrete or soil before detonating, and multiple bombs can be dropped successively to drill even deeper with each blast. It uses GPS and inertial navigation systems for precision targeting and features a sophisticated "smart fuze" that can adjust detonation timing based on the target's depth and configuration. The bomb works by using its massive weight and speed gained from high-altitude drops to penetrate through layers of rock and concrete, with advanced fuzing systems that detect when it has reached the optimal depth before exploding. However, while the B-52 has been used in testing of the MOP, currently only the B-2 Spirit is operationally configured to deliver this weapon in combat. The Flying Legend Lives On The strategic implications are significant – any use of American bunker-buster bombs would require U.S. aircraft and could jeopardise Trump’s stated desire for diplomatic talks with Iran about its nuclear program. Military experts note that destroying facilities like Fordow represents a unique American capability, as Israel lacks the heavy bunker-busting munitions needed for such deeply buried targets. This situation highlights how the B-52, while incredibly versatile, operates alongside other specialised aircraft like the B-2 Spirit in America’s strategic bombing capability, each platform optimised for specific mission requirements in an increasingly complex global security environment. The B-52 Stratofortress stands as a testament to exceptional engineering and design. Few aircraft have served as long or as effectively as this flying giant. As military technology continues to advance, the B-52 adapts and evolves, proving that sometimes the best designs are truly timeless. For military aviation enthusiasts and general readers alike, the B-52 represents the incredible achievement of human engineering – a machine that has quite literally stood the test of time and continues to soar through the skies as America's trusted guardian.

The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress is truly one of the most remarkable aircraft ever built. This massive bomber has been serving the United States Air Force since 1961. What makes this aircraft so special that it has remained in service for more than six decades?

B-52 Bomber: America's strategic ace in the Iran-Israel nuclear standoff

Israel-Iran War: After his hint that the US could get "involved" in the ongoing Israel-Iran war, several American agencies are reporting that President Donald Trump is now considering joining Israel's strikes on Iran. Multiple reports have claimed that the Republican will soon likely join the strikes against the nuclear facilities of the Islamic Republic. This came after the American president held a one-hour-and-20-minute meeting with his national security team in the White House Situation Room on Tuesday (June 17).&nbsp;An unnamed senior intelligence official and a Department of Defence official informed CBS News that Trump is considering joining Israel in its war against Iran.&nbsp;News agency Axios reported that the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defence force are under the impression that Trump will join them in the coming days to bomb Israel, targeting its underground enrichment facility.&nbsp;Why did Trump leave the G7 Summit?&nbsp;The speculation around the US joining the Israel-Iran war was fueled by the American president himself when he abruptly departed from Canada in the middle of the G7 Summit.&nbsp;Later on, he posted a short message on his social media - "evacuate Tehran." This created a panic.&nbsp;Moreover, French President Emmanuel Macron, when asked about Trump's sudden departure, said that the US president was headed to work on a ceasefire between the two war-torn nations. However, this claim was strictly rejected by Trump, who called Macron "wrong" and accused him of grabbing public attention.&nbsp;'Much bigger than that'&nbsp;After leaving the G7 Summit in Canada abruptly amid the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said that he did not leave to work on the ceasefire.&nbsp;"Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.&nbsp;"He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!" he added. US 'could get involved’&nbsp;Earlier, during an interview with ABC News, the US president said, "We're not involved in it. It's possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved."&nbsp;Although the US president denied commenting on the reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had urged the US to join the war.&nbsp;Trump wants 'real end' to Iran's nuke desires&nbsp;Meanwhile, a senior White House reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs, posted on the social media platform X, saying that Trump told her that he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran.&nbsp;"I didn't say I was looking for a ceasefire," the American president said on AF1. Trump said he wants a "real end" to the conflict by making Iran give up "entirely" on its nuclear aims.&nbsp;Moreover, Trump also hinted that Israel is not planning to slow down its strikes on Iran any time soon. Rather, he predicted that in the coming two days, people will "find out" what's going to happen.&nbsp;Is Iran prepared against US?&nbsp;Meanwhile, a New York Times report said that Iran is prepared with missiles and military equipment to strike US bases if America joins Israel in the ongoing conflict.&nbsp;

US to join Israel in its war against Iran as Trump wants Ali Khamenei to give up entirely: American media

Israel-Iran War: After his hint that the US could get "involved" in the ongoing Israel-Iran war, several American agencies are reporting that President Donald Trump is now considering joining Israel's strikes on Iran. Multiple reports have claimed that the Republican will soon likely join the strikes against the nuclear facilities of the Islamic Republic. This came after the American president held a one-hour-and-20-minute meeting with his national security team in the White House Situation Room on Tuesday (June 17). An unnamed senior intelligence official and a Department of Defence official informed CBS News that Trump is considering joining Israel in its war against Iran. News agency Axios reported that the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defence force are under the impression that Trump will join them in the coming days to bomb Israel, targeting its underground enrichment facility. Why did Trump leave the G7 Summit? The speculation around the US joining the Israel-Iran war was fueled by the American president himself when he abruptly departed from Canada in the middle of the G7 Summit. Later on, he posted a short message on his social media - "evacuate Tehran." This created a panic. Moreover, French President Emmanuel Macron, when asked about Trump's sudden departure, said that the US president was headed to work on a ceasefire between the two war-torn nations. However, this claim was strictly rejected by Trump, who called Macron "wrong" and accused him of grabbing public attention. 'Much bigger than that' After leaving the G7 Summit in Canada abruptly amid the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said that he did not leave to work on the ceasefire. "Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. "He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!" he added. US 'could get involved’ Earlier, during an interview with ABC News, the US president said, "We're not involved in it. It's possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved." Although the US president denied commenting on the reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had urged the US to join the war. Trump wants 'real end' to Iran's nuke desires Meanwhile, a senior White House reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs, posted on the social media platform X, saying that Trump told her that he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran. "I didn't say I was looking for a ceasefire," the American president said on AF1. Trump said he wants a "real end" to the conflict by making Iran give up "entirely" on its nuclear aims. Moreover, Trump also hinted that Israel is not planning to slow down its strikes on Iran any time soon. Rather, he predicted that in the coming two days, people will "find out" what's going to happen. Is Iran prepared against US? Meanwhile, a New York Times report said that Iran is prepared with missiles and military equipment to strike US bases if America joins Israel in the ongoing conflict.

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, reports came that Donald Trump will join Israel in its airstrikes against the Islamic Republic targeting its nuclear facilities.&nbsp;

US to join Israel in its war against Iran as Trump wants Ali Khamenei to give up 'entirely': American media

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet the Pakistani Chief of Army Staff and Field Marshal, Asim Munir, amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war. The American president is expected to hold a private lunch meeting with the Pakistani official, the White House said. Munir's meeting with the strongest ally of Israel came just after Iran said Islamabad had assured it would use nuclear weapons against Israel if Netanyahu tries to nuke Iran. Although Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar termed the statement by Iran "fabricated."&nbsp;As per the official schedule of the American president released by the White House, Trump would meet the Pakistani official at 1:00 PM (Washington time) on Wednesday (June 18). This was after the US denied invitation to Munir for the &nbsp;US Army's 250th anniversary celebrations on June 14.&nbsp;Moreover, Munir is also scheduled to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on his US trip, the Pakistani media has reported.&nbsp;The verbal support&nbsp;Talking at a press conference amid the war with Israel, Iranian commander Mohsen Rezaei said Pakistan, which shares the border with Iran, has pledged to stand by Iran and called for unity in the Muslim world. &nbsp;Meanwhile, on June 14, speaking in the national assembly, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif called on Muslim nations to launch a united initiative against Israel. &nbsp;&nbsp;Pakistan shuts border with Iran amid strikes&nbsp;All this verbal support by Pakistan came amid the fact that the Shehbaz Sharif-led country closed its border with Iran after Israel intensified its aerial attack on Tehran.&nbsp;"Border facilities in all five districts - Chaghi, Washuk, Panjgur, Kech and Gwadar &nbsp;- have been suspended," Qadir Bakhsh Pirkani, a senior official in Balochistan province, which borders Iran, told AFP.&nbsp;The complex ties of Pakistan and Iran Pakistan is the only Muslim-majority nation in the world that possesses nuclear weapons. The country has said that it "stands in solidarity with the Government and the people of Iran" against strikes by Israel.&nbsp;Khawaja Asif has warned that the world "should be wary and apprehensive about Israel's nuclear prowess."&nbsp;Although media reports have claimed that Pakistan may support Iran with nuclear weapons, Islamabad has said that it is showing only "moral" and "diplomatic solidarity" with the Khamenei-led nation.&nbsp;The relationship of the two Islamic nations - Pakistan and Iran - has long been complex and diplomatic.&nbsp;Pakistan is often wary of US-led sanctions on Tehran and also stays mindful of its ties with Riyadh since Saudi Arabia and Iran share a proxy conflict. &nbsp;

Trump to meet Asim Munir amid Israel-Iran war. What is happening?

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet the Pakistani Chief of Army Staff and Field Marshal, Asim Munir, amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war. The American president is expected to hold a private lunch meeting with the Pakistani official, the White House said. Munir's meeting with the strongest ally of Israel came just after Iran said Islamabad had assured it would use nuclear weapons against Israel if Netanyahu tries to nuke Iran. Although Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar termed the statement by Iran "fabricated." As per the official schedule of the American president released by the White House, Trump would meet the Pakistani official at 1:00 PM (Washington time) on Wednesday (June 18). This was after the US denied invitation to Munir for the US Army's 250th anniversary celebrations on June 14. Moreover, Munir is also scheduled to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on his US trip, the Pakistani media has reported. The verbal support Talking at a press conference amid the war with Israel, Iranian commander Mohsen Rezaei said Pakistan, which shares the border with Iran, has pledged to stand by Iran and called for unity in the Muslim world. Meanwhile, on June 14, speaking in the national assembly, Pakistan’s defence minister Khawaja Asif called on Muslim nations to launch a united initiative against Israel. Pakistan shuts border with Iran amid strikes All this verbal support by Pakistan came amid the fact that the Shehbaz Sharif-led country closed its border with Iran after Israel intensified its aerial attack on Tehran. "Border facilities in all five districts - Chaghi, Washuk, Panjgur, Kech and Gwadar - have been suspended," Qadir Bakhsh Pirkani, a senior official in Balochistan province, which borders Iran, told AFP. The complex ties of Pakistan and Iran Pakistan is the only Muslim-majority nation in the world that possesses nuclear weapons. The country has said that it "stands in solidarity with the Government and the people of Iran" against strikes by Israel. Khawaja Asif has warned that the world "should be wary and apprehensive about Israel's nuclear prowess." Although media reports have claimed that Pakistan may support Iran with nuclear weapons, Islamabad has said that it is showing only "moral" and "diplomatic solidarity" with the Khamenei-led nation. The relationship of the two Islamic nations - Pakistan and Iran - has long been complex and diplomatic. Pakistan is often wary of US-led sanctions on Tehran and also stays mindful of its ties with Riyadh since Saudi Arabia and Iran share a proxy conflict.

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet the Pakistani Chief of Army Staff and Field Marshal, Asim Munir, amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war. The American president is expected to hold a private lunch meeting with the Pakistani official, the White House said.

Trump to meet Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir amid Israel-Iran war. What's happening?

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (Jun 17) warned that any military actions used in an attempt to force a regime change in Iran would result in “chaos”. This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;Macron made the remarks while talking to reporters at the Group of Seven summit in Canada shortly after Trump said he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now.&nbsp;The US president has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day.&nbsp;Macron said that Trump had a critical role in restarting diplomacy with Tehran, adding that he believed the US president favours a ceasefire between Iran and Israel.&nbsp;“I believe we need the United States of America to bring everyone back around the table,” Macron told reporters at the G7 summit.&nbsp;Trump, who returned from the G7 summit a day earlier, held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the White House said. The meeting came amid reports that the US leader is considering whether to join Israel’s military operations against Tehran.&nbsp;AFP reported, citing a White House official, that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details.&nbsp;Following the meeting, administration officials told NBC News that Trump is considering various options, including a US strike.&nbsp;“We are waiting for the decision of the president,” a senior Israeli official told CNN.&nbsp;According to US officials, Trump was keeping all options on the table. Although he had insisted that Washington had no involvement in Israel’s military campaign so far.&nbsp;Trump earlier declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran.&nbsp;Some media reports also suggested that Trump had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.

This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday (Jun 17) warned that any military actions used in an attempt to force a regime change in Iran would result in “chaos”. This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Macron made the remarks while talking to reporters at the Group of Seven summit in Canada shortly after Trump said he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now. The US president has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day. Macron said that Trump had a critical role in restarting diplomacy with Tehran, adding that he believed the US president favours a ceasefire between Iran and Israel. “I believe we need the United States of America to bring everyone back around the table,” Macron told reporters at the G7 summit. Trump, who returned from the G7 summit a day earlier, held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the White House said. The meeting came amid reports that the US leader is considering whether to join Israel’s military operations against Tehran. AFP reported, citing a White House official, that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details. Following the meeting, administration officials told NBC News that Trump is considering various options, including a US strike. “We are waiting for the decision of the president,” a senior Israeli official told CNN. According to US officials, Trump was keeping all options on the table. Although he had insisted that Washington had no involvement in Israel’s military campaign so far. Trump earlier declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran. Some media reports also suggested that Trump had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.

This comes after US President Donald Trump made threats against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

‘It would be chaos’: Macron warns against forcing regime change in Iran amid Trump’s threats

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday (Jun 17) that the ongoing conflict with Iran could bring “a different Middle East”. He added that the military confrontation could facilitate the Abraham Accords normalisation agreements between Israel and Arab states.&nbsp;In an interview aired on Channel 14 in Hebrew, Netanyahu was asked whether regime change in Tehran is a goal of his military campaign. He responded by saying that he “sees this through a historical lens…Cyrus freed the Jews, and today the Jewish state might free the Persians. Not in the sense that we’re doing it for them…In the end, they have to rise up themselves, but we are creating the conditions. And that’s why it could be consequential.”&nbsp;He also claimed that “80 per cent” of Iranians “hate” their government, without citing his source for the figure. He called Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei a “modern Hitler”, adding that Israel plans to destroy “additional regime facilities” in the operation.&nbsp;Netanyahu added that he believes the conflict will mark a turning point in the region. He said, “We’re going to see a different Middle East, a reality we haven’t seen until now.”&nbsp;He stated he is expecting that the Arab world will further open up to Israel as a result of conflict with Iran, which could ultimately facilitate an expansion of the Abraham Accords, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;“The Arab world has opened up to us,” the Israeli prime minister said. “And the threat we face now is Iran. It’s either us or them.”&nbsp;<h2>Khamenei says, ‘The battle begins’</h2>&nbsp;For the first time since assassination threats from US President Donald Trump, Khamenei posted on X, “The battle begins.”&nbsp;Earlier, Trump warned Iran’s Supreme Leader that he knows his exact location but will not target him, at least for now. Trump has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day. &nbsp;

Netanyahu said that he believes the conflict will mark a turning point in the region. He said, “We’re going to see a different Middle East, a reality we haven’t seen until now.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday (Jun 17) that the ongoing conflict with Iran could bring “a different Middle East”. He added that the military confrontation could facilitate the Abraham Accords normalisation agreements between Israel and Arab states. In an interview aired on Channel 14 in Hebrew, Netanyahu was asked whether regime change in Tehran is a goal of his military campaign. He responded by saying that he “sees this through a historical lens…Cyrus freed the Jews, and today the Jewish state might free the Persians. Not in the sense that we’re doing it for them…In the end, they have to rise up themselves, but we are creating the conditions. And that’s why it could be consequential.” He also claimed that “80 per cent” of Iranians “hate” their government, without citing his source for the figure. He called Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei a “modern Hitler”, adding that Israel plans to destroy “additional regime facilities” in the operation. Netanyahu added that he believes the conflict will mark a turning point in the region. He said, “We’re going to see a different Middle East, a reality we haven’t seen until now.” He stated he is expecting that the Arab world will further open up to Israel as a result of conflict with Iran, which could ultimately facilitate an expansion of the Abraham Accords, reported the Times of Israel. “The Arab world has opened up to us,” the Israeli prime minister said. “And the threat we face now is Iran. It’s either us or them.” Khamenei says, ‘The battle begins’ For the first time since assassination threats from US President Donald Trump, Khamenei posted on X, “The battle begins.” Earlier, Trump warned Iran’s Supreme Leader that he knows his exact location but will not target him, at least for now. Trump has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day.

Netanyahu said that he believes the conflict will mark a turning point in the region. He said, “We’re going to see a different Middle East, a reality we haven’t seen until now.”

‘It’s either us or them’: Netanyahu says Israel-Iran conflict will bring ‘a different Middle East’

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Jun 17) held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the White House said. This comes amid reports that the US leader is considering whether to join Israel’s military operations against Tehran.&nbsp;AFP reported, citing a White House official, that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details.&nbsp;Following the meeting, administration officials told NBC News that Trump is considering various options, including a US strike.&nbsp;“We are waiting for the decision of the president,” a senior Israeli official told CNN.&nbsp;The development comes after Trump said that he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now. Trump has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day.&nbsp;According to US officials, Trump was keeping all options on the table. Although he had insisted that Washington had no involvement in Israel’s military campaign so far.&nbsp;Trump earlier declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran.&nbsp;Trump’s comments come after media reports suggesting that he had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the United States State Department said that Washington is setting up a round-the-clock task force to help Americans in the Middle East amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;“The Department of State has established the Middle East Task Force to help coordinate support for us, citizens, our US diplomatic missions and personnel and diplomatic engagement,” State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters during a press briefing on Tuesday.&nbsp;“The task force is operating 24 hours a day over the past week to help keep us citizens informed. We have issued more than 30 security alerts to countries in the region and updated travel advisories for Iraq and Israel,” she said.

A White House official said that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (Jun 17) held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, the White House said. This comes amid reports that the US leader is considering whether to join Israel’s military operations against Tehran. AFP reported, citing a White House official, that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details. Following the meeting, administration officials told NBC News that Trump is considering various options, including a US strike. “We are waiting for the decision of the president,” a senior Israeli official told CNN. The development comes after Trump said that he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now. Trump has also demanded Tehran’s “unconditional” surrender, as Israel and Iran exchange military actions for a fifth day. According to US officials, Trump was keeping all options on the table. Although he had insisted that Washington had no involvement in Israel’s military campaign so far. Trump earlier declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran. Trump’s comments come after media reports suggesting that he had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei. Meanwhile, the United States State Department said that Washington is setting up a round-the-clock task force to help Americans in the Middle East amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. “The Department of State has established the Middle East Task Force to help coordinate support for us, citizens, our US diplomatic missions and personnel and diplomatic engagement,” State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters during a press briefing on Tuesday. “The task force is operating 24 hours a day over the past week to help keep us citizens informed. We have issued more than 30 security alerts to countries in the region and updated travel advisories for Iraq and Israel,” she said.

A White House official said that the meeting in the White House Situation Room lasted around one hour and 20 minutes. The official did not add further details.

Trump considering strike on Iran? US President holds national security meeting as tensions rise in Mideast

The United States State Department on Tuesday (Jun 17) said that Washington is setting up a round-the-clock task force to help Americans in the Middle East amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;This comes after US President Donald Trump returned from the Group of Seven summit a day early. He held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the Israel-Iran conflict, a White House official said, reported AFP.&nbsp;“The Department of State has established the Middle East Task Force to help coordinate support for us, citizens, our US diplomatic missions and personnel and diplomatic engagement,” State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters during a press briefing on Tuesday.&nbsp;“The task force is operating 24 hours a day over the past week to help keep us citizens informed. We have issued more than 30 security alerts to countries in the region and updated travel advisories for Iraq and Israel,” she said.&nbsp;Trump earlier said that he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now.&nbsp;“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.&nbsp;He warned, however, that US patience is wearing thin. “But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”&nbsp;Trump’s remarks came shortly after he declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran.&nbsp;Trump’s post comes after media reports suggesting that he had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.

This comes after US President Donald Trump returned from the Group of Seven summit a day early.

The United States State Department on Tuesday (Jun 17) said that Washington is setting up a round-the-clock task force to help Americans in the Middle East amid the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. This comes after US President Donald Trump returned from the Group of Seven summit a day early. He held a National Security Council meeting to discuss the Israel-Iran conflict, a White House official said, reported AFP. “The Department of State has established the Middle East Task Force to help coordinate support for us, citizens, our US diplomatic missions and personnel and diplomatic engagement,” State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters during a press briefing on Tuesday. “The task force is operating 24 hours a day over the past week to help keep us citizens informed. We have issued more than 30 security alerts to countries in the region and updated travel advisories for Iraq and Israel,” she said. Trump earlier said that he knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, but will not target him, at least for now. “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. He warned, however, that US patience is wearing thin. “But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump’s remarks came shortly after he declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, suggesting that the US may get directly involved in the ongoing conflict between the two foes, Israel and Iran. Trump’s post comes after media reports suggesting that he had recently turned down a proposal by Israel to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.

This comes after US President Donald Trump returned from the Group of Seven summit a day early.

‘To keep citizens informed’: US creates Middle East Task Force amid Israel-Iran conflict

US President Donald Trump has reiterated his pledge several times during his presidency as well as campaign trail, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.His obsession with this statement is quite evident as the White House released a statement on when Trump said it in the past years.Notably, the US president said this no less than a dozen times while being in office this year.<h2>Here's the timeline of when he said it while being in office</h2>(6/17/25): “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple — you don’t have to go to too deep into it. They just can’t have a nuclear weapon.”6/16/25): “I want to see no nuclear weapon in Iran and we’re well on our way to making sure that happens.”(6/14/25): “You can’t have peace if Iran has a nuclear weapon.”(6/11/25): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. Very simple. They can’t have a nuclear weapon. We’re not going to allow that.”(5/16/25): “You have to view them as people and I don’t want it to be a violent thing, but they’re not going to have a nuclear weapon.”(5/15/25): “I want them to succeed. I want them to end up being a great country, frankly, but they can’t have a nuclear weapon.”(5/14/25): “I want to make a deal with Iran, I want to do something if it’s possible, but for that to happen, it must stop sponsoring terror, halt its bloody proxy wars, and permanently and verifiably cease its pursuit of nuclear weapons.”(5/13/25): “Iran can have a much brighter future — but we’ll never allow America and its allies to be threatened with terrorism or a nuclear attack. The choice is theirs to make. We really want them to be a successful country … but they cannot have a nuclear weapon.”(5/6/25): “We want it to be a great country. Let it be a tremendously successful, rich country … but they can’t have a nuclear weapon.”(5/4/25): “I want Iran to be really successful, really great, really fantastic — the only thing they can’t have is a nuclear weapon. If they want to be successful, that’s OK. I want them to be so successful and, you know, the Iranian people are incredible — I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon because the world will be destroyed.”(4/17/25): “Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon.”(4/14/25): “Iran has to get rid of the concept of a nuclear weapon. They cannot have a nuclear weapon.”(4/11/25): “I want Iran to be a wonderful, great, happy country — but they can’t have a nuclear weapon.”(2/10/25): “You cannot allow [Iran] to have a nuclear weapon.”(2/4/25): “It’s very simple: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, during campaign trails, Trump said this no less than 40 times, showing his great obsession or we can call a pledge to restrain Iran from having a nuclear weapon.&nbsp;(11/3/24): “Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon. Nuclear weapons are the greatest single threat to our country, but to the entire world.” (10/29/24): “I would have been very good to Iran. They — I had to have one thing, no nuclear weapons. You can’t have nuclear weapon. Nuclear weapons are the greatest danger to our country going forward, to the world going forward.”(10/28/24): “And all I wanted was Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon … That’s all I wanted. Very simple. You can’t have a nuclear weapon.”(10/23/24): “We don’t want Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”(10/16/24): “I didn’t want much. I wanted Iran to be very successful. I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon.”(10/14/24): “You can’t let them have a nuclear weapon.”(10/10/24): “I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple.”(10/7/24): “I only wanted one thing. You can’t have a nuclear weapon. You cannot let them have a nuclear weapon.”(10/7/24): “No, they can’t have nukes. No, they can’t have nukes.”(10/1/24): "They can’t have a nuclear weapon — and now they’re very close to having one and it’s very dangerous for the world, very dangerous for the world … The biggest problem today, in my opinion, the biggest risk is the nuclear weapons.”(9/30/24): “All I want them to do is not have a nuclear weapon. They can’t have a nuclear weapon.”(9/26/24): “The only thing is [Iran] cannot have nuclear weapons.”(9/19/24): “I wanted one thing from Iran — no nuclear weapon. I didn’t want much — no nuclear weapon. And now they’re very close to getting it, and you can’t let that happen.”(9/17/24): “All we want is we don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon. Very simple. That’s all we want. We don’t want you to have a nuclear weapon.”(8/27/24): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. We just can’t let them have a nuclear weapon. I’ll say this. If they do have a nuclear weapon, Israel is gone. It’ll be gone.”(8/23/24): “I don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon.”(8/23/24): “I just wanted to have a deal with Iran, very simple deal — can’t have a nuclear weapon. That’s it.”(8/15/24): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. They can’t have a nuclear weapon. And we were all set to make sure that they don’t have a nuclear weapon. Because once they do, it’s a whole different world, it’s a whole different negotiation.”(8/8/24): “Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon — it’s very simple.”(8/5/24): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple. They can’t have a nuclear weapon. You cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon.”(7/10/24): “Iran should not have a nuclear weapon … Iran should never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon.”(6/20/24): “The main thing is Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon. That was my main thing. The deal was a simple deal. Iran can’t have a nuclear. You know, it can’t have a missile, it can’t have a nuclear missile. It cannot have that nuclear capability.”(5/15/24): “We have a very hostile country that wants nuclear weapons. You can’t let that happen.” (6/15/24) “Iran should not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. They would never have had even close to a nuclear weapon. They are very close to getting a nuclear weapon. You cannot let that happen.”(5/1/24): “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon — very simple. They cannot have a nuclear weapon.”(4/30/24): “You can’t let Iran have nuclear weapons.”(3/25/24): “Iran wanted to make a deal, and what the deal — 90% of the deal that I want to make is no nuclear weapon. That’s 90% — almost 100%. It might be 100%. That’s all I want. No nuclear weapon for Iran”(2/23/24): “I want everybody to be happy. They just can’t have a nuclear weapon.”(1/20/24): “I just didn’t want Iran to have a nuclear weapon. I said, ‘You know, we’re going to make a great deal. Everybody’s going to be happy. You’re going to be rich as hell again. Everything’s going to be great, but you cannot have a nuclear weapon.’”(1/5/24): “They cannot have a nuclear weapon. That was the only thing — the one thing I said, ‘You cannot have.’”(1/5/24): “I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon.”(12/30/23): “They will have, within a short period of time, nuclear weapons — and that is never something that can be allowed to happen.”“No nuclear weapons. You can’t have nuclear weapons. (11/9/23): Nuclear weapons are the single greatest threat to this world.”(10/29/23): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. That’s all. They can’t have nuclear weapons. It’s too destructive, too powerful. They can’t have it.”(10/16/23): “Don’t let Iran have nuclear weapons. That’s my only thing I have to tell you today. Don’t let them have it.”(7/15/23): “No nuclear weapons. You can’t give [Iran] nuclear weapons.”(6/24/23): “You cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. You cannot let it happen because bad things will happen if that happens.”(1/6/20): “IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!”(6/22/19): “Iran cannot have Nuclear Weapons!”(1/24/15): “We can’t let Iran get a nuclear weapon. We can’t do it. Can’t do it. We cannot let that happen.”(11/4/11): “We can’t allow Iran to go nuclear.”&nbsp;

His obsession with this statement is quite evident as the White House released a statement on when Trump said it in the past years.

US President Donald Trump has reiterated his pledge several times during his presidency as well as campaign trail, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. His obsession with this statement is quite evident as the White House released a statement on when Trump said it in the past years. Notably, the US president said this no less than a dozen times while being in office this year. Here's the timeline of when he said it while being in office (6/17/25): “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple — you don’t have to go to too deep into it. They just can’t have a nuclear weapon.” 6/16/25): “I want to see no nuclear weapon in Iran and we’re well on our way to making sure that happens.” (6/14/25): “You can’t have peace if Iran has a nuclear weapon.” (6/11/25): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. Very simple. They can’t have a nuclear weapon. We’re not going to allow that.” (5/16/25): “You have to view them as people and I don’t want it to be a violent thing, but they’re not going to have a nuclear weapon.” (5/15/25): “I want them to succeed. I want them to end up being a great country, frankly, but they can’t have a nuclear weapon.” (5/14/25): “I want to make a deal with Iran, I want to do something if it’s possible, but for that to happen, it must stop sponsoring terror, halt its bloody proxy wars, and permanently and verifiably cease its pursuit of nuclear weapons.” (5/13/25): “Iran can have a much brighter future — but we’ll never allow America and its allies to be threatened with terrorism or a nuclear attack. The choice is theirs to make. We really want them to be a successful country … but they cannot have a nuclear weapon.” (5/6/25): “We want it to be a great country. Let it be a tremendously successful, rich country … but they can’t have a nuclear weapon.” (5/4/25): “I want Iran to be really successful, really great, really fantastic — the only thing they can’t have is a nuclear weapon. If they want to be successful, that’s OK. I want them to be so successful and, you know, the Iranian people are incredible — I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon because the world will be destroyed.” (4/17/25): “Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon.” (4/14/25): “Iran has to get rid of the concept of a nuclear weapon. They cannot have a nuclear weapon.” (4/11/25): “I want Iran to be a wonderful, great, happy country — but they can’t have a nuclear weapon.” (2/10/25): “You cannot allow [Iran] to have a nuclear weapon.” (2/4/25): “It’s very simple: Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.” Meanwhile, during campaign trails, Trump said this no less than 40 times, showing his great obsession or we can call a pledge to restrain Iran from having a nuclear weapon. (11/3/24): “Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon. Nuclear weapons are the greatest single threat to our country, but to the entire world.” (10/29/24): “I would have been very good to Iran. They — I had to have one thing, no nuclear weapons. You can’t have nuclear weapon. Nuclear weapons are the greatest danger to our country going forward, to the world going forward.” (10/28/24): “And all I wanted was Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon … That’s all I wanted. Very simple. You can’t have a nuclear weapon.” (10/23/24): “We don’t want Iran to have a nuclear weapon.” (10/16/24): “I didn’t want much. I wanted Iran to be very successful. I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon.” (10/14/24): “You can’t let them have a nuclear weapon.” (10/10/24): “I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple.” (10/7/24): “I only wanted one thing. You can’t have a nuclear weapon. You cannot let them have a nuclear weapon.” (10/7/24): “No, they can’t have nukes. No, they can’t have nukes.” (10/1/24): "They can’t have a nuclear weapon — and now they’re very close to having one and it’s very dangerous for the world, very dangerous for the world … The biggest problem today, in my opinion, the biggest risk is the nuclear weapons.” (9/30/24): “All I want them to do is not have a nuclear weapon. They can’t have a nuclear weapon.” (9/26/24): “The only thing is [Iran] cannot have nuclear weapons.” (9/19/24): “I wanted one thing from Iran — no nuclear weapon. I didn’t want much — no nuclear weapon. And now they’re very close to getting it, and you can’t let that happen.” (9/17/24): “All we want is we don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon. Very simple. That’s all we want. We don’t want you to have a nuclear weapon.” (8/27/24): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. We just can’t let them have a nuclear weapon. I’ll say this. If they do have a nuclear weapon, Israel is gone. It’ll be gone.” (8/23/24): “I don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon.” (8/23/24): “I just wanted to have a deal with Iran, very simple deal — can’t have a nuclear weapon. That’s it.” (8/15/24): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. They can’t have a nuclear weapon. And we were all set to make sure that they don’t have a nuclear weapon. Because once they do, it’s a whole different world, it’s a whole different negotiation.” (8/8/24): “Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon — it’s very simple.” (8/5/24): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple. They can’t have a nuclear weapon. You cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon.” (7/10/24): “Iran should not have a nuclear weapon … Iran should never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon.” (6/20/24): “The main thing is Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon. That was my main thing. The deal was a simple deal. Iran can’t have a nuclear. You know, it can’t have a missile, it can’t have a nuclear missile. It cannot have that nuclear capability.” (5/15/24): “We have a very hostile country that wants nuclear weapons. You can’t let that happen.” (6/15/24) “Iran should not be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. They would never have had even close to a nuclear weapon. They are very close to getting a nuclear weapon. You cannot let that happen.” (5/1/24): “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon — very simple. They cannot have a nuclear weapon.” (4/30/24): “You can’t let Iran have nuclear weapons.” (3/25/24): “Iran wanted to make a deal, and what the deal — 90% of the deal that I want to make is no nuclear weapon. That’s 90% — almost 100%. It might be 100%. That’s all I want. No nuclear weapon for Iran” (2/23/24): “I want everybody to be happy. They just can’t have a nuclear weapon.” (1/20/24): “I just didn’t want Iran to have a nuclear weapon. I said, ‘You know, we’re going to make a great deal. Everybody’s going to be happy. You’re going to be rich as hell again. Everything’s going to be great, but you cannot have a nuclear weapon.’” (1/5/24): “They cannot have a nuclear weapon. That was the only thing — the one thing I said, ‘You cannot have.’” (1/5/24): “I just don’t want them to have a nuclear weapon.” (12/30/23): “They will have, within a short period of time, nuclear weapons — and that is never something that can be allowed to happen.” “No nuclear weapons. You can’t have nuclear weapons. (11/9/23): Nuclear weapons are the single greatest threat to this world.” (10/29/23): “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. That’s all. They can’t have nuclear weapons. It’s too destructive, too powerful. They can’t have it.” (10/16/23): “Don’t let Iran have nuclear weapons. That’s my only thing I have to tell you today. Don’t let them have it.” (7/15/23): “No nuclear weapons. You can’t give [Iran] nuclear weapons.” (6/24/23): “You cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon. You cannot let it happen because bad things will happen if that happens.” (1/6/20): “IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!” (6/22/19): “Iran cannot have Nuclear Weapons!” (1/24/15): “We can’t let Iran get a nuclear weapon. We can’t do it. Can’t do it. We cannot let that happen.” (11/4/11): “We can’t allow Iran to go nuclear.”

His obsession with this statement is quite evident as the White House released a statement on when Trump said it in the past years.

'15 times this year, over 40...': How many times Trump said 'Iran cannot have nuclear weapons'? A TIMELINE

US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (June 17) took to social media, to clarify some of the concerns rising on social media on the Israel-Iran war.Admitting that he is biased towards US President Donald Trump, Vance reiterated that Trump has been "amazingly consistent" for over 10 years, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon."Over the last few months, he encouraged his foreign policy team to reach a deal with the Iranians to accomplish this goal. The president has made clear that Iran cannot have uranium enrichment," the US vice president said.Vance stressed that Trump has repeatedly said that this would happen one of two ways--the easy way or the "other" way.While addressing another concern, the US vice president said, "I've seen a lot of confusion over the issue of civilian nuclear power and uranium enrichment. These are distinct issues."He continued Iran could have civilian nuclear power without enrichment, but Iran rejected that, adding that Iran enriched uranium far above the level necessary for any civilian purpose."They've been found in violation of their non-proliferation obligations by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which is hardly a rightwing organization," he said."It's one thing to want civilian nuclear energy. It's another thing to demand sophisticated enrichment capacity. And it's still another to cling to enrichment while simultaneously violating basic non-proliferation obligations and enriching right to the point of weapons-grade uranium," Vance added.He said that there is no single good argument for why Iran needed to enrich uranium well above the threshold for civilian use."I've yet to see a single good argument for why Iran was justified in violating its non-proliferation obligations. I've yet to see a single good pushback against the IAEA's findings."He praised the US president for showing remarkable restraint in keeping the military's focus on protecting our troops and protecting our citizens."He may decide he needs to take further action to end Iranian enrichment. That decision ultimately belongs to the president. And of course, people are right to be worried about foreign entanglement after the last 25 years of idiotic foreign policy," Vance said.The US vice president further assured that Trump is only interested in using the American military to "accomplish the American people's goals. Whatever he does, that is his focus."

Vance reiterated that Trump has been "amazingly consistent" for over 10 years, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.

US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (June 17) took to social media, to clarify some of the concerns rising on social media on the Israel-Iran war. Admitting that he is biased towards US President Donald Trump, Vance reiterated that Trump has been "amazingly consistent" for over 10 years, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. "Over the last few months, he encouraged his foreign policy team to reach a deal with the Iranians to accomplish this goal. The president has made clear that Iran cannot have uranium enrichment," the US vice president said. Vance stressed that Trump has repeatedly said that this would happen one of two ways--the easy way or the "other" way. While addressing another concern, the US vice president said, "I've seen a lot of confusion over the issue of civilian nuclear power and uranium enrichment. These are distinct issues." He continued Iran could have civilian nuclear power without enrichment, but Iran rejected that, adding that Iran enriched uranium far above the level necessary for any civilian purpose. "They've been found in violation of their non-proliferation obligations by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which is hardly a rightwing organization," he said. "It's one thing to want civilian nuclear energy. It's another thing to demand sophisticated enrichment capacity. And it's still another to cling to enrichment while simultaneously violating basic non-proliferation obligations and enriching right to the point of weapons-grade uranium," Vance added. He said that there is no single good argument for why Iran needed to enrich uranium well above the threshold for civilian use. "I've yet to see a single good argument for why Iran was justified in violating its non-proliferation obligations. I've yet to see a single good pushback against the IAEA's findings." He praised the US president for showing remarkable restraint in keeping the military's focus on protecting our troops and protecting our citizens. "He may decide he needs to take further action to end Iranian enrichment. That decision ultimately belongs to the president. And of course, people are right to be worried about foreign entanglement after the last 25 years of idiotic foreign policy," Vance said. The US vice president further assured that Trump is only interested in using the American military to "accomplish the American people's goals. Whatever he does, that is his focus."

Vance reiterated that Trump has been "amazingly consistent" for over 10 years, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.

'25 years of IDIOTIC FOREIGN POLICY': US Vice President JD Vance warns Trump might decide on 'further action' to end Iranian enrichment

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) claimed that the United States knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei but will not target him, at least for now.“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now,” Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.He warned, however, that US patience is wearing thin. “But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter!”<h2>Comments follow warning of US air control over Iran</h2>Trump’s comments came shortly after he declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, hinting that the US might become more directly involved in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.Trump’s post follows media reports that he had recently turned down an Israeli proposal to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei.When asked about the report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to confirm it. Speaking to Fox News, he said, “There’s so many false reports of conversations that never happened, and I’m not going to get into that.”However, he added, “I think that we do what we need to do, we’ll do what we need to do. And I think the United States knows what is good for the United States.”<h2>Netanyahu says targeting Khamenei would end conflict</h2>A day later, Netanyahu told ABC News that taking out Khamenei would not make the situation worse, but would end the conflict.“It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict,” he said, dismissing fears that such a move could provoke a wider war in the region.

Trump’s comments came shortly after he declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, hinting that the US might become more directly involved in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) claimed that the United States knows the exact location of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei but will not target him, at least for now. “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now,” Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. He warned, however, that US patience is wearing thin. “But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Comments follow warning of US air control over Iran Trump’s comments came shortly after he declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, hinting that the US might become more directly involved in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. Trump’s post follows media reports that he had recently turned down an Israeli proposal to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei. When asked about the report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to confirm it. Speaking to Fox News, he said, “There’s so many false reports of conversations that never happened, and I’m not going to get into that.” However, he added, “I think that we do what we need to do, we’ll do what we need to do. And I think the United States knows what is good for the United States.” Netanyahu says targeting Khamenei would end conflict A day later, Netanyahu told ABC News that taking out Khamenei would not make the situation worse, but would end the conflict. “It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict,” he said, dismissing fears that such a move could provoke a wider war in the region.

Trump’s comments came shortly after he declared that the US had achieved “complete and total control” of Iranian airspace, hinting that the US might become more directly involved in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran.

'Not going to kill Khamenei, for now': Trump warns US knows where Iran’s Supreme Leader is hiding

Israel's Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter said that there will be surprises in the Israel-Iran war, that will make the beeper operation seem simple than the ongoing attacks against Iran.The envoy was referring to Israel's pager and walkie-talkies attack against Hezbollah members in Lebanon and Syria."We've pulled off a number of surprises," Leiter said during a Tuesday appearance on the TV network Merit Street. "When the dust settles, you're going to see some surprises on Thursday night and Friday that will make the beeper operation almost seem simple," he added.However, he later clarified on X, that he was referring to Israel's actions in the past week and not future actions.Last year, Israel detonated pagers used by members of the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group, that killed at least 12 people and wounded nearly 3,000 people.The next day, at least 25 people were killed and more than 600 were injured in a walkie-talkies blast.Further, Leiter blamed European leaders for making the same mistakes the world made in refusing to confront Adolf Hitler in the 1930s.“This is the war to end wars,” he said referring to Israel’s bombing of Iran. “This is the war to engender peace in the Middle East.”He also stressed that US President Donald Trump is not putting pressure on Israel to stop the fighting.In a video on X, Leiter explained that Israel was "not in the business of regime change.""Today we continue to peel back the surface-to-surface missile systems that are spread throughout Iran. We've reached the point where between a third and a half have been demolished," he said."We hit today the broadcast center in the middle of Tehran after we informed the people living in the vicinity to leave. Hundreds of thousands of Tehranis have escaped Tehran to be out of the line of danger. And we took out the broadcast system. This is very important because this serves the mullahs and their information campaign, the propaganda campaign throughout," he added.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The envoy was referring to Israel's pager and walkie-talkies attack against Hezbollah members in Lebanon and Syria.

Israel's Ambassador to the US Yechiel Leiter said that there will be surprises in the Israel-Iran war, that will make the beeper operation seem simple than the ongoing attacks against Iran. The envoy was referring to Israel's pager and walkie-talkies attack against Hezbollah members in Lebanon and Syria. "We've pulled off a number of surprises," Leiter said during a Tuesday appearance on the TV network Merit Street. "When the dust settles, you're going to see some surprises on Thursday night and Friday that will make the beeper operation almost seem simple," he added. However, he later clarified on X, that he was referring to Israel's actions in the past week and not future actions. Last year, Israel detonated pagers used by members of the Iran-backed Hezbollah terror group, that killed at least 12 people and wounded nearly 3,000 people. The next day, at least 25 people were killed and more than 600 were injured in a walkie-talkies blast. Further, Leiter blamed European leaders for making the same mistakes the world made in refusing to confront Adolf Hitler in the 1930s. “This is the war to end wars,” he said referring to Israel’s bombing of Iran. “This is the war to engender peace in the Middle East.” He also stressed that US President Donald Trump is not putting pressure on Israel to stop the fighting. In a video on X, Leiter explained that Israel was "not in the business of regime change." "Today we continue to peel back the surface-to-surface missile systems that are spread throughout Iran. We've reached the point where between a third and a half have been demolished," he said. "We hit today the broadcast center in the middle of Tehran after we informed the people living in the vicinity to leave. Hundreds of thousands of Tehranis have escaped Tehran to be out of the line of danger. And we took out the broadcast system. This is very important because this serves the mullahs and their information campaign, the propaganda campaign throughout," he added.

The envoy was referring to Israel's pager and walkie-talkies attack against Hezbollah members in Lebanon and Syria.

More SURPRISES in Israel-Iran war? US envoy warns 'Hezbollah beeper operation' will seem simple compared to ongoing attack

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) claimed that America now has “complete and total control” of the skies over Iran, marking the strongest sign yet that Washington may become directly involved in the growing conflict between Israel and Iran.Taking to his platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, “We now have complete and total control of the skies over Iran. Iran had good sky trackers and other defensive equipment, and plenty of it, but it doesn’t compare to American-made, conceived, and manufactured ‘stuff.’ Nobody does it better than the good ol’ USA.”This is the first public statement suggesting the US has taken active military steps beyond previous support for Israel’s defence.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-israel-lie-just-to-attack-iran-us-didn-t-think-tehran-was-actively-pursuing-a-nuclear-weapon-and-was-years-away-from-getting-one-report-1750175840990">Did Israel lie just to attack Iran? US didn't think Tehran was 'actively pursuing a nuclear weapon' and was years&nbsp;away from getting one:&nbsp;Report</a><h2>Trump demands Iran provide up nuclear ambitions</h2>Earlier, Trump also said he was not interested in a temporary pause in the conflict. “I’m not looking for a ceasefire, we’re looking at better than a ceasefire,” he stated.He emphasised the need for a full resolution, saying he wanted a “real end” to the nuclear issue with Iran. According to Trump, that means Iran must “give up entirely” on developing nuclear weapons.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-israel-warns-khamenei-will-end-up-like-saddam-hussein-who-was-he-and-what-happened-to-him-1750167956095">'Remember his fate': Israel warns Khamenei will end up like Saddam Hussein - Who was he and what happened to him?</a><h2>President hints at sending US envoys to Tehran</h2>The US president was speaking to reporters during his overnight departure from Canada, where he attended the G7 summit on Monday.Asked if Israel would reduce its military operations against Iran, Trump suggested otherwise. “You’re going to find out over the next two days. You’re going to find out. Nobody’s slowed up so far,” he said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-will-tel-aviv-lose-the-air-war-or-tehran-run-out-of-missiles-first-1750159544037">Israel-Iran war: Will Tel Aviv lose the air war, or Tehran run out&nbsp;of&nbsp;missiles first?</a>Trump added that he “may” send either US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff or Vice President JD Vance to open discussions with Iranian leaders. “It depends what happens when I get back,” he said.When asked whether American involvement would destroy Iran’s nuclear programme, Trump replied that he hoped it would be “wiped out long before that.”Trump shifts stance on US involvementEarlier, Trump had downplayed direct involvement in the Israel-Iran war. Speaking to ABC News, he had said, “We’re not involved in it. It’s possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved.”

Trump also said he was not interested in a temporary pause in the conflict. “I’m not looking for a ceasefire, we’re looking at better than a ceasefire,” he stated.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (17 June) claimed that America now has “complete and total control” of the skies over Iran, marking the strongest sign yet that Washington may become directly involved in the growing conflict between Israel and Iran. Taking to his platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote, “We now have complete and total control of the skies over Iran. Iran had good sky trackers and other defensive equipment, and plenty of it, but it doesn’t compare to American-made, conceived, and manufactured ‘stuff.’ Nobody does it better than the good ol’ USA.” This is the first public statement suggesting the US has taken active military steps beyond previous support for Israel’s defence. Also read: Did Israel lie just to attack Iran? US didn't think Tehran was 'actively pursuing a nuclear weapon' and was years away from getting one: Report Trump demands Iran provide up nuclear ambitions Earlier, Trump also said he was not interested in a temporary pause in the conflict. “I’m not looking for a ceasefire, we’re looking at better than a ceasefire,” he stated. He emphasised the need for a full resolution, saying he wanted a “real end” to the nuclear issue with Iran. According to Trump, that means Iran must “give up entirely” on developing nuclear weapons. Also read: 'Remember his fate': Israel warns Khamenei will end up like Saddam Hussein - Who was he and what happened to him? President hints at sending US envoys to Tehran The US president was speaking to reporters during his overnight departure from Canada, where he attended the G7 summit on Monday. Asked if Israel would reduce its military operations against Iran, Trump suggested otherwise. “You’re going to find out over the next two days. You’re going to find out. Nobody’s slowed up so far,” he said. Also read: Israel-Iran war: Will Tel Aviv lose the air war, or Tehran run out of missiles first? Trump added that he “may” send either US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff or Vice President JD Vance to open discussions with Iranian leaders. “It depends what happens when I get back,” he said. When asked whether American involvement would destroy Iran’s nuclear programme, Trump replied that he hoped it would be “wiped out long before that.” Trump shifts stance on US involvement Earlier, Trump had downplayed direct involvement in the Israel-Iran war. Speaking to ABC News, he had said, “We’re not involved in it. It’s possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved.”

Trump also said he was not interested in a temporary pause in the conflict. “I’m not looking for a ceasefire, we’re looking at better than a ceasefire,” he stated.

US entering Israel-Iran war? Trump claims 'complete US control' over Iran’s airspace

As Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iran last week, it claimed that Iran was nearing the point of building a nuclear weapon. Israeli officials claimed the attacks were needed to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear threat.However, US intelligence paints a different picture. According to a CNN report, Iran was not actively pursuing a nuclear weapon. As per the report, Iran is still up to three years away from having the ability to produce and deliver a nuclear weapon.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-israel-warns-khamenei-will-end-up-like-saddam-hussein-who-was-he-and-what-happened-to-him-1750167956095">'Remember his fate': Israel warns Khamenei will end up like Saddam Hussein - Who was he and what happened to him?</a>One senior American official told CNN that Iran is “about as close as you can get before building (a nuclear weapon). If Iran wanted one, they have all the things they need.”<h2>Israeli attacks may have only caused minor delays</h2>Despite Israeli strikes damaging key parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, such as the Natanz facility, US officials say the attacks have only set back Iran’s nuclear programme by a few months. Iran’s second major enrichment site at Fordow, which is well protected underground, has not been hit. Israel does not have the means to strike Fordow effectively without US military support, including specialised bombs and B-2 bombers.<h2>Trump reluctant to join Israel’s mission</h2>President Donald Trump has made it clear he does not wish for the US to get involved in Israel’s military efforts against Iran.Speaking to ABC News, Trump said, “We’re not involved in it. It’s possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved.” At the G7 Summit in Canada, he urged both countries to hold talks “before it’s too late.”<h2>US military moves amid rising tensions</h2>The US Central Command, which oversees operations in the Middle East, has taken a more urgent view of Iran’s nuclear ambitions than civilian agencies. Ahead of Israel’s recent strikes, it believed Iran could produce a usable nuclear weapon sooner if it chose to.In response to rising tensions, the US is moving forces into the region to protect American troops and assist Israel if required. A US official said the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is heading to the Middle East “without delay.” Other naval defences are also expected to move into the eastern Mediterranean in the coming days.Two US Navy ships have already intercepted missiles aimed at Israel over the weekend, according to American officials.<h2>US and Israel disagree on nuclear intelligence</h2>Although Israel and the US closely share intelligence, they often differ on how to interpret Iran’s nuclear intentions. Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, said in March that Iran was not building a nuclear weapon and that Supreme Leader Khamenei had not restarted the programme he paused in 2003.When asked about her statement, Trump replied on Air Force One, “very close,” in reference to Iran’s nuclear status. Pressed further, he added, “I don’t care what she said. I think they were very close to having it.”Gabbard later insisted there was no disagreement, saying, “President Trump was saying the same thing that I said in my annual threat assessment back in March.”<h2>Netanyahu defends Israel’s intelligence</h2>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Fox News that Israel had shared its findings with the US, claiming they were clear that Iran was secretly working to weaponise uranium. “They were marching very quickly,” he said.Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency said that Iran had collected enough uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels for potentially nine nuclear bombs. It called this “a matter of serious concern.”However, experts say Iran still faces a bigger hurdle, developing a working delivery system for such a weapon, which could take far longer than building the device itself.

Despite Israeli strikes damaging key parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, such as the Natanz facility, US officials say the attacks have only set back Iran’s nuclear programme by a few months.

As Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Iran last week, it claimed that Iran was nearing the point of building a nuclear weapon. Israeli officials claimed the attacks were needed to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear threat. However, US intelligence paints a different picture. According to a CNN report, Iran was not actively pursuing a nuclear weapon. As per the report, Iran is still up to three years away from having the ability to produce and deliver a nuclear weapon. Also read: 'Remember his fate': Israel warns Khamenei will end up like Saddam Hussein - Who was he and what happened to him? One senior American official told CNN that Iran is “about as close as you can get before building (a nuclear weapon). If Iran wanted one, they have all the things they need.” Israeli attacks may have only caused minor delays Despite Israeli strikes damaging key parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, such as the Natanz facility, US officials say the attacks have only set back Iran’s nuclear programme by a few months. Iran’s second major enrichment site at Fordow, which is well protected underground, has not been hit. Israel does not have the means to strike Fordow effectively without US military support, including specialised bombs and B-2 bombers. Trump reluctant to join Israel’s mission President Donald Trump has made it clear he does not wish for the US to get involved in Israel’s military efforts against Iran. Speaking to ABC News, Trump said, “We’re not involved in it. It’s possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved.” At the G7 Summit in Canada, he urged both countries to hold talks “before it’s too late.” US military moves amid rising tensions The US Central Command, which oversees operations in the Middle East, has taken a more urgent view of Iran’s nuclear ambitions than civilian agencies. Ahead of Israel’s recent strikes, it believed Iran could produce a usable nuclear weapon sooner if it chose to. In response to rising tensions, the US is moving forces into the region to protect American troops and assist Israel if required. A US official said the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is heading to the Middle East “without delay.” Other naval defences are also expected to move into the eastern Mediterranean in the coming days. Two US Navy ships have already intercepted missiles aimed at Israel over the weekend, according to American officials. US and Israel disagree on nuclear intelligence Although Israel and the US closely share intelligence, they often differ on how to interpret Iran’s nuclear intentions. Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, said in March that Iran was not building a nuclear weapon and that Supreme Leader Khamenei had not restarted the programme he paused in 2003. When asked about her statement, Trump replied on Air Force One, “very close,” in reference to Iran’s nuclear status. Pressed further, he added, “I don’t care what she said. I think they were very close to having it.” Gabbard later insisted there was no disagreement, saying, “President Trump was saying the same thing that I said in my annual threat assessment back in March.” Netanyahu defends Israel’s intelligence Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Fox News that Israel had shared its findings with the US, claiming they were clear that Iran was secretly working to weaponise uranium. “They were marching very quickly,” he said. Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency said that Iran had collected enough uranium enriched to near weapons-grade levels for potentially nine nuclear bombs. It called this “a matter of serious concern.” However, experts say Iran still faces a bigger hurdle, developing a working delivery system for such a weapon, which could take far longer than building the device itself.

Despite Israeli strikes damaging key parts of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, such as the Natanz facility, US officials say the attacks have only set back Iran’s nuclear programme by a few months.

Did Israel lie just to attack Iran? US didn't think Tehran was 'actively pursuing a nuclear weapon' and was years away from getting one: Report

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz has issued a strong warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, comparing his actions to those of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. The comments were made during a high-level assessment with the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) leadership.“I warn the Iranian dictator against continuing to commit war crimes and launching missiles at Israeli civilians,” Katz said in a statement. “He would do well to remember the fate of the dictator in the country neighbouring Iran who chose this same path against the State of Israel,” he added, referring to Saddam Hussein, who was captured in 2003 and executed three years later.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-will-tel-aviv-lose-the-air-war-or-tehran-run-out-of-missiles-first-1750159544037">Israel-Iran war: Will Tel Aviv lose the air war, or Tehran run out&nbsp;of&nbsp;missiles first?</a>Katz also confirmed that Israel had struck the headquarters of Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB in Tehran the day before. He warned that more sites linked to Iran’s civil regime may be targeted in upcoming operations.“We will continue today as well to act against regime and military targets in Tehran, just as we did yesterday against the propaganda and incitement broadcasting authority,” he said.<h2>Netanyahu says hitting Khamenei could ‘end the conflict’</h2>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also addressed the possibility of targeting Khamenei directly. Speaking to ABC News, he said that such an action would not escalate tensions but rather bring the ongoing conflict to an end.“It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict,” Netanyahu said, referring to earlier reports that US President Donald Trump had avoided such action fearing it would provoke further violence.Netanyahu claimed that Iran’s leadership has been behind decades of instability across the Middle East. “We’ve had half a century of conflict spread by this regime that terrorises everyone in the Middle East… What Israel is doing is preventing this, bringing an end to this aggression,” he stated.He continued, “We can only do so by standing up to the forces of evil.”<h2>Who was Saddam Hussein?</h2>Saddam Hussein was the fifth president of Iraq, ruling from 1979 until he was overthrown in 2003 during the US-led invasion. A controversial and often brutal leader, he maintained power through repression and conflict, including war with Iran and the invasion of Kuwait.<h2>What happened to him?</h2>Saddam Hussein was captured by American forces on 13 December 2003 while hiding in an underground bunker near his hometown of Tikrit. He was tried by the Iraqi Special Tribunal and found guilty of crimes against humanity for the killing of 148 Shi’ites in Dujail in 1982.He was sentenced to death and executed by hanging on 30 December 2006.

Katz also confirmed that Israel had struck the headquarters of Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB in Tehran the day before. He warned that more sites linked to Iran’s civil regime may be targeted in upcoming operations.

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz has issued a strong warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, comparing his actions to those of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. The comments were made during a high-level assessment with the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) leadership. “I warn the Iranian dictator against continuing to commit war crimes and launching missiles at Israeli civilians,” Katz said in a statement. “He would do well to remember the fate of the dictator in the country neighbouring Iran who chose this same path against the State of Israel,” he added, referring to Saddam Hussein, who was captured in 2003 and executed three years later. Also read | Israel-Iran war: Will Tel Aviv lose the air war, or Tehran run out of missiles first? Katz also confirmed that Israel had struck the headquarters of Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB in Tehran the day before. He warned that more sites linked to Iran’s civil regime may be targeted in upcoming operations. “We will continue today as well to act against regime and military targets in Tehran, just as we did yesterday against the propaganda and incitement broadcasting authority,” he said. Netanyahu says hitting Khamenei could ‘end the conflict’ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also addressed the possibility of targeting Khamenei directly. Speaking to ABC News, he said that such an action would not escalate tensions but rather bring the ongoing conflict to an end. “It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict,” Netanyahu said, referring to earlier reports that US President Donald Trump had avoided such action fearing it would provoke further violence. Netanyahu claimed that Iran’s leadership has been behind decades of instability across the Middle East. “We’ve had half a century of conflict spread by this regime that terrorises everyone in the Middle East… What Israel is doing is preventing this, bringing an end to this aggression,” he stated. He continued, “We can only do so by standing up to the forces of evil.” Who was Saddam Hussein? Saddam Hussein was the fifth president of Iraq, ruling from 1979 until he was overthrown in 2003 during the US-led invasion. A controversial and often brutal leader, he maintained power through repression and conflict, including war with Iran and the invasion of Kuwait. What happened to him? Saddam Hussein was captured by American forces on 13 December 2003 while hiding in an underground bunker near his hometown of Tikrit. He was tried by the Iraqi Special Tribunal and found guilty of crimes against humanity for the killing of 148 Shi’ites in Dujail in 1982. He was sentenced to death and executed by hanging on 30 December 2006.

Katz also confirmed that Israel had struck the headquarters of Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB in Tehran the day before. He warned that more sites linked to Iran’s civil regime may be targeted in upcoming operations.

'Remember his fate': Israel warns Khamenei will end up like Saddam Hussein - Who was he and what happened to him?

As Israel intensifies its attacks to destroy Iran's nuclear facilities, it cannot easily attack the Fordow nuclear facility. Built into the side of a mountain, the facility is Tehran's second nuclear enrichment site after Natanz.The secretive and heavily guarded complex is built close to the holy city of Qom. There have been speculations about its true nature and size since it was first made public in 2009.<h2>All about Fordow nuclear facility</h2>The main halls of the facility are an estimated 80 to 90 metres beneath the ground, to make it safe from any aerial bomb known to be possessed by Israel. It further makes it nearly impossible to destroy the site.The construction of the facility began around 2006 and it became operational in 2009, the same year Iran publicly acknowledged its existence.The site is reportedly protected by Iranian and Russian surface-to-air missile systems. But, those air defenses have likely been already struck in the Israeli attacks.<h2>Can bunker-buster bombs help in this?</h2>If Israel wants to destroy the Fordow nuclear facility, the US has to intervene and help in attacking the site.The US has to provide "bunker-buster bombs" to Israel, which are believed to significantly damage the Fordow nuclear fuel enrichment plant.The bunker buster is a wide term, used to describe bombs that are designed to penetrate deep below the surface before exploding.The bomb has to be dropped from an American aircraft, which could have wide-ranging ramifications.In this particular case, it refers to the latest GBU-57 A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator bomb in the American arsenal.Roughly, it is the 30000-pound precision-guided bomb, and is guided to attack deeply buried and hardened bunkers and tunnels, according to the US Air Force.Moreover, the bomb is believed to be able to penetrate about 200 feet below the surface before exploding and these bombs can be dropped one after another, which can effectively drill deeper and deeper with successive blasts.Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that they are attacking Iran to eliminate its missile and nuclear program, calling it an "existential threat to Israel.""This entire operation ... really has to be completed with the elimination of Fordo,” Yechiel Leiter, Israel's ambassador to the US told Fox News.

The construction of the facility began around 2006 and it became operational in 2009, the same year Iran publicly acknowledged its existence.

As Israel intensifies its attacks to destroy Iran's nuclear facilities, it cannot easily attack the Fordow nuclear facility. Built into the side of a mountain, the facility is Tehran's second nuclear enrichment site after Natanz. The secretive and heavily guarded complex is built close to the holy city of Qom. There have been speculations about its true nature and size since it was first made public in 2009. All about Fordow nuclear facility The main halls of the facility are an estimated 80 to 90 metres beneath the ground, to make it safe from any aerial bomb known to be possessed by Israel. It further makes it nearly impossible to destroy the site. The construction of the facility began around 2006 and it became operational in 2009, the same year Iran publicly acknowledged its existence. The site is reportedly protected by Iranian and Russian surface-to-air missile systems. But, those air defenses have likely been already struck in the Israeli attacks. Can bunker-buster bombs help in this? If Israel wants to destroy the Fordow nuclear facility, the US has to intervene and help in attacking the site. The US has to provide "bunker-buster bombs" to Israel, which are believed to significantly damage the Fordow nuclear fuel enrichment plant. The bunker buster is a wide term, used to describe bombs that are designed to penetrate deep below the surface before exploding. The bomb has to be dropped from an American aircraft, which could have wide-ranging ramifications. In this particular case, it refers to the latest GBU-57 A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator bomb in the American arsenal. Roughly, it is the 30000-pound precision-guided bomb, and is guided to attack deeply buried and hardened bunkers and tunnels, according to the US Air Force. Moreover, the bomb is believed to be able to penetrate about 200 feet below the surface before exploding and these bombs can be dropped one after another, which can effectively drill deeper and deeper with successive blasts. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that they are attacking Iran to eliminate its missile and nuclear program, calling it an "existential threat to Israel." "This entire operation ... really has to be completed with the elimination of Fordo,” Yechiel Leiter, Israel's ambassador to the US told Fox News.

The construction of the facility began around 2006 and it became operational in 2009, the same year Iran publicly acknowledged its existence.

Hidden inside mountain, protected by Russian missiles: What's inside Iran's Fordow nuclear facility? Here's how it can be destroyed

Amid the escalating Israel-Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (June 17) warned Tehran that the "gloves are off" if it touches US troops in the Middle East.The US president said that America will come down so hard on them if they do anything to the US people."We'll come down so hard if they do anything to our people. The gloves are off. I think they know not to touch our troops," he told reporters as he flew back to Washington from the G7 summit.He further said that he's considering sending US Vice President JD Vance and envoy Steve Witkoff to meet with the Iranians but it "depends on what happens when I get back.”Trump further pointed out that he is "not too much in the mood to negotiate" with Iran.He also said that he wanted something "better than a ceasefire" when it comes to the Israel-Iran conflict.Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he's seeking a "real end" to the conflict with Israel and Iran, saying that it's better than a ceasefire.When asked what is better than a ceasefire, Trump said, "an end, a real end, not a ceasefire. An end. Or giving entirely. That’s OK, too.”Trump stressed he wanted a “complete give-up” by Iran.He further hinted that the next 48 hours will reveal more about whether Israel plans to slow down or accelerate its attacks on Iran.On the fifth day of the Israel-Iran war, explosions were heard in Tehran, according to Iranian state media.Reportedly, Israel was attacking western areas of Iran's capital.Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz also warned Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei that he could share the same fate as former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.Hussein was executed by hanging after he was convicted of crimes against humanity by the Iraqi High Tribunal.Katz said Khamenei should "remember what happened to [the] dictator in the neighbouring country of Iran who took this path against Israel".

The US president said that America will come down so hard on them if they do anything to the US people.

Amid the escalating Israel-Iran war, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (June 17) warned Tehran that the "gloves are off" if it touches US troops in the Middle East. The US president said that America will come down so hard on them if they do anything to the US people. "We'll come down so hard if they do anything to our people. The gloves are off. I think they know not to touch our troops," he told reporters as he flew back to Washington from the G7 summit. He further said that he's considering sending US Vice President JD Vance and envoy Steve Witkoff to meet with the Iranians but it "depends on what happens when I get back.” Trump further pointed out that he is "not too much in the mood to negotiate" with Iran. He also said that he wanted something "better than a ceasefire" when it comes to the Israel-Iran conflict. Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he's seeking a "real end" to the conflict with Israel and Iran, saying that it's better than a ceasefire. When asked what is better than a ceasefire, Trump said, "an end, a real end, not a ceasefire. An end. Or giving entirely. That’s OK, too.” Trump stressed he wanted a “complete give-up” by Iran. He further hinted that the next 48 hours will reveal more about whether Israel plans to slow down or accelerate its attacks on Iran. On the fifth day of the Israel-Iran war, explosions were heard in Tehran, according to Iranian state media. Reportedly, Israel was attacking western areas of Iran's capital. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz also warned Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei that he could share the same fate as former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. Hussein was executed by hanging after he was convicted of crimes against humanity by the Iraqi High Tribunal. Katz said Khamenei should "remember what happened to [the] dictator in the neighbouring country of Iran who took this path against Israel".

The US president said that America will come down so hard on them if they do anything to the US people.

'Will come down so hard, it'd be gloves off': Trump's BIG WARNING to Iran if it hits US troops amid war with Israel

One of Iran’s main state-owned financial institutions, Sepah Bank, suffered a serious cyberattack on Tuesday, according to local reports. The Fars news agency said the bank’s online systems were disrupted due to the attack but added that services were expected to be restored within hours.“A cyberattack targeted the infrastructure of Sepah Bank, causing disruptions to the institution’s online services,” the agency reported.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-iran-issues-evacuation-warning-for-israeli-tv-channels-after-tel-aviv-bombs-state-television-1750100357948">'In response to hostile attack': Iran issues EVACUATION WARNING for Israeli TV channels after Tel Aviv bombs state television</a><h2>Mobile phone ban for Iranian officials</h2>In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces.Channel 12, an Israeli outlet, said the directive was likely prompted by concerns that Israel is using phone tracking to locate and assassinate targets within Iran, including nuclear scientists.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-iran-test-israel-s-limits-israel-deploys-barak-magen-air-defence-system-for-the-first-time-1750077787485">Did Iran test Israel’s limits? Israel deploys Barak Magen air&nbsp;defence&nbsp;system for the first time</a><h2>Mobile phones being used to track assassination targets</h2>According to the IRGC-linked Fars News Agency, Israel has used mobile tracking to identify and kill high-profile figures in Iran. The outlet claimed, “Israel uses mobile tracking to assassinate individuals in Iran. It previously killed Ismail Haniyeh the same way in Tehran.”The report warned that even switching off mobile phones does not always prevent tracking. It urged officials to use secure, anti-tracking devices instead.Following the revelations, a lawmaker in Tehran called for military and government officials to collect all mobile devices used by themselves and their associates to limit exposure.<h2>Israeli ambassador hints at more ‘surprises’</h2>Amid the escalating conflict, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, hinted that more covert operations may follow.“There’s still a lot of things we can do,” Leiter told Merit TV. “We’ve pulled off a number of surprises — when the dust settles — you’re going to see some surprises on Thursday night and Friday, that will make the beeper operation almost seem simple,” he added.In a previous operation in September, Israel had reportedly detonated thousands of Hezbollah walkie-talkies and communication devices, injuring many fighters through a complex intelligence effort.

In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces.

One of Iran’s main state-owned financial institutions, Sepah Bank, suffered a serious cyberattack on Tuesday, according to local reports. The Fars news agency said the bank’s online systems were disrupted due to the attack but added that services were expected to be restored within hours. “A cyberattack targeted the infrastructure of Sepah Bank, causing disruptions to the institution’s online services,” the agency reported. Also read | 'In response to hostile attack': Iran issues EVACUATION WARNING for Israeli TV channels after Tel Aviv bombs state television Mobile phone ban for Iranian officials In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces. Channel 12, an Israeli outlet, said the directive was likely prompted by concerns that Israel is using phone tracking to locate and assassinate targets within Iran, including nuclear scientists. Also read: Did Iran test Israel’s limits? Israel deploys Barak Magen air defence system for the first time Mobile phones being used to track assassination targets According to the IRGC-linked Fars News Agency, Israel has used mobile tracking to identify and kill high-profile figures in Iran. The outlet claimed, “Israel uses mobile tracking to assassinate individuals in Iran. It previously killed Ismail Haniyeh the same way in Tehran.” The report warned that even switching off mobile phones does not always prevent tracking. It urged officials to use secure, anti-tracking devices instead. Following the revelations, a lawmaker in Tehran called for military and government officials to collect all mobile devices used by themselves and their associates to limit exposure. Israeli ambassador hints at more ‘surprises’ Amid the escalating conflict, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, hinted that more covert operations may follow. “There’s still a lot of things we can do,” Leiter told Merit TV. “We’ve pulled off a number of surprises — when the dust settles — you’re going to see some surprises on Thursday night and Friday, that will make the beeper operation almost seem simple,” he added. In a previous operation in September, Israel had reportedly detonated thousands of Hezbollah walkie-talkies and communication devices, injuring many fighters through a complex intelligence effort.

In an unusual move, Iran’s Cyber Authority has reportedly issued a directive barring government employees, officials, and security teams from using mobile phones connected to public networks. The move comes as fears grow over the use of phone tracking by Israeli forces.

Is Israel's tech-war threatening Iran? Here's why Tehran is banning officials from using mobile phones

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (June 17) denied claims about reaching out to Iran for "peace talks", calling it "fabricated and fake news".The US president said that if they want to talk, they know how to reach me.Trump further said that Iran should have taken the deal that was on the table, adding that it would have saved a lot of lives."I have not reached out to Iran for “Peace Talks” in any way, shape, or form. This is just more HIGHLY FABRICATED, FAKE NEWS! If they want to talk, they know how to reach me. They should have taken the deal that was on the table - Would have saved a lot of lives!!!," he said in a Truth Social post on Tuesday.Earlier today, Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he's seeking a "real end" to the conflict with Israel and Iran, saying that it's better than a ceasefire.When asked what is better than a ceasefire, Trump said, "an end, a real end, not a ceasefire. An end. Or giving entirely. That’s OK, too.”He further hinted that the next 48 hours will reveal more about whether Israel plans to slow down or accelerate its attacks on Iran.“You’re going to find out. Nobody’s slowed up so far,” Trump said.Notably, Israel’s foreign intelligence service, Mossad headquarters has been hit following Iranian strikes, Iranian state media reported.This comes as the war between the two countries escalates, leading to the death of more than 200 people in Iran and over a dozen Israelis.According to Press TV, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that they struck a centre of Mossad on Tuesday amid the ongoing war.Meanwhile, Israel claimed it had killed top Iranian commander Ali Shadmani in an overnight airstrike. &nbsp;IDF said on Tuesday (June 17) that the head of IRGC’s Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Ali Shadmani, has been assassinated in an attack on Tehran.&nbsp;

Trump further said that Iran should have taken the deal that was on the table, adding that it would have saved a lot of lives.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday (June 17) denied claims about reaching out to Iran for "peace talks", calling it "fabricated and fake news". The US president said that if they want to talk, they know how to reach me. Trump further said that Iran should have taken the deal that was on the table, adding that it would have saved a lot of lives. "I have not reached out to Iran for “Peace Talks” in any way, shape, or form. This is just more HIGHLY FABRICATED, FAKE NEWS! If they want to talk, they know how to reach me. They should have taken the deal that was on the table - Would have saved a lot of lives!!!," he said in a Truth Social post on Tuesday. Earlier today, Trump told reporters on Air Force One that he's seeking a "real end" to the conflict with Israel and Iran, saying that it's better than a ceasefire. When asked what is better than a ceasefire, Trump said, "an end, a real end, not a ceasefire. An end. Or giving entirely. That’s OK, too.” He further hinted that the next 48 hours will reveal more about whether Israel plans to slow down or accelerate its attacks on Iran. “You’re going to find out. Nobody’s slowed up so far,” Trump said. Notably, Israel’s foreign intelligence service, Mossad headquarters has been hit following Iranian strikes, Iranian state media reported. This comes as the war between the two countries escalates, leading to the death of more than 200 people in Iran and over a dozen Israelis. According to Press TV, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that they struck a centre of Mossad on Tuesday amid the ongoing war. Meanwhile, Israel claimed it had killed top Iranian commander Ali Shadmani in an overnight airstrike. IDF said on Tuesday (June 17) that the head of IRGC’s Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Ali Shadmani, has been assassinated in an attack on Tehran.

Trump further said that Iran should have taken the deal that was on the table, adding that it would have saved a lot of lives.

'HIGHLY FABRICATED AND FAKE': Trump denies claims about reaching out to Iran for 'peace talks' amid war with Israel

Who is Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei? In his increasingly rare appearances at Friday sermons, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei often kept a loaded gun by his side. The Islamic Republic's 86-year-old leader has good reasons to do so, particularly amid the current war with Israel, whose Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hasn't kept it a secret that he would like Khamenei dead. Often reported to be living in bunkers, Khamenei has survived bids on his life in the past. So, who really is Khamenei? How did he rise to power in Iran? And who all want him dead? Here is a profile:<h2>Ali Khamenei, Iran's second supreme leader</h2>Sayyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei&nbsp;has been the Supreme Leader of Iran since 1989, becoming only the second person to hold that post after the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ruhollah Musavi Khomeini.&nbsp;This means he has been in power for 36 years, making him one of the longest-serving heads of state in present-day world. Born on April 19, 1939, in Mashhad, Iran, Khamenei is a so-called ‘Grand Ayatollah’. Born into the family of a modest Islamic scholar,&nbsp; Khamenei studied Islamic theology in Qom under prominent scholars, including Ruhollah Khomeini, his mentor.<h2>A political life dotted with protests, arrests, exile</h2>As a young man, Khamenei was active in protests against the Shah dynasty's rule, way back in the 1960s. He was arrested several times, and lived in exile for three years during the Shah's regime.&nbsp; His humble background, which included studying the religion, has informed his commitment to Islamic governance and his fight against Western influence.<h2>Confidant and inheritor of Khomeini's power</h2>After the establishment of the Islamic Republic following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Khamenei became a close confidant of Khomeini. He rose through the ranks in the clergy-government nexus of Iran.&nbsp; Since the Revolution, Khomenei held important posts, such as the deputy defence minister in the provisional revolutionary government. He was also the Supervisor of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards or IRGC and oversaw the parallel military's early operations.<h2>Rise through the ranks: From president to Supreme Leader</h2>In 1980, Khomeini appointed him as Tehran’s Friday Prayers Imam, &nbsp;a key post in Iran with significant religious and political import. He was elected a parliamentarian in 1980, representing &nbsp;Tehran in the Majlis. A year later, he was elected the President of Iran after the assassination of then president Mohammad Ali Rajai, and went on to serve two terms till 1989. &nbsp;After the death of Khomeini in 1989, he was elected by the Assembly of Experts as the Supreme Leader of Iran.&nbsp;Thus, the son of a simple Islamic scholar became the ultimate authority over Iran’s political, military, social and religious life. Over the years, Khamanei served in several other important positions in Iran, including as the&nbsp; chairman of the Revolution’s Cultural Council, President of the Expediency Council, and Chairman of the Committee for Revision of the Constitution.<h2>Survivor of assassination attempts</h2>Much of the hagiography around Khamenei is about his survival of assassination attempts. While several of the attempts are either unreported or underplayed in Iran, two of them stand out.&nbsp;Perhaps the most prominent is the bid on his life in 1981.<h2>The Friday prayer bomb attack</h2>On 27 June 1981, Khamenei was at a Friday sermon at Abuzar Mosque in Tehran when a bomb exploded near him. &nbsp;The bomb, hidden in a tape recorder, severely injured Khamenei, leaving him permanently paralysed in his right arm. The blast also damaged his vocal cords and lungs. After months in the hospital, Khamenei came back to the limelight. The assassination attempt and survival made him almost a demigod for his supporters.<h2>Attack at Tehran University</h2>An almost similar attack took place on 15 March 1985 in Tehran University, again during Friday prayers. This time, it was a suicide bomber.&nbsp;Khamenei, who was president at the time, escaped unharmed, even as several people died in the blast.&nbsp; &nbsp;Khamenei continued in office, but this time, he began a crackdown on opposition groups. &nbsp;There have been other reported attempts on the life of Khamenei, including a drone attack in 2022.&nbsp;<h2>Who all wanted him dead?</h2>The opposition group Mojahedin-e Khalq or MEK was the 1981 attack perpetrators, according to Iran’s official narrative. For the 1985 attack, no group has been named officially, but the needle of suspicion still pointed to MEK. &nbsp;Over the past two decades, Israel has been among the main adversaries who wanted Khamenei dead. In the first hours of its attacks on Iran this month, Israel reportedly targeted Khamenei's residence or nearby areas.&nbsp; He is reportedly sheltering in a bunker. And Israel is closing in. Iran’s military leaders and Khamenei's top advisor Ali Shamkhani are among those killed in Israel’s initial wave of airstrikes on June 13. With several top names in his inner circle gone, Khamenei, one of the longest-serving leaders of West Asia, is looking more vulnerable than ever.&nbsp; But will he weather this storm too? Watch this space.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not kept it a secret that he would like Khamenei dead

Who is Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei? In his increasingly rare appearances at Friday sermons, Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei often kept a loaded gun by his side. The Islamic Republic's 86-year-old leader has good reasons to do so, particularly amid the current war with Israel, whose Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hasn't kept it a secret that he would like Khamenei dead. Often reported to be living in bunkers, Khamenei has survived bids on his life in the past. So, who really is Khamenei? How did he rise to power in Iran? And who all want him dead? Here is a profile: Ali Khamenei, Iran's second supreme leader Sayyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei has been the Supreme Leader of Iran since 1989, becoming only the second person to hold that post after the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ruhollah Musavi Khomeini. This means he has been in power for 36 years, making him one of the longest-serving heads of state in present-day world. Born on April 19, 1939, in Mashhad, Iran, Khamenei is a so-called ‘Grand Ayatollah’. Born into the family of a modest Islamic scholar, Khamenei studied Islamic theology in Qom under prominent scholars, including Ruhollah Khomeini, his mentor. A political life dotted with protests, arrests, exile As a young man, Khamenei was active in protests against the Shah dynasty's rule, way back in the 1960s. He was arrested several times, and lived in exile for three years during the Shah's regime. His humble background, which included studying the religion, has informed his commitment to Islamic governance and his fight against Western influence. Confidant and inheritor of Khomeini's power After the establishment of the Islamic Republic following the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Khamenei became a close confidant of Khomeini. He rose through the ranks in the clergy-government nexus of Iran. Since the Revolution, Khomenei held important posts, such as the deputy defence minister in the provisional revolutionary government. He was also the Supervisor of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards or IRGC and oversaw the parallel military's early operations. Rise through the ranks: From president to Supreme Leader In 1980, Khomeini appointed him as Tehran’s Friday Prayers Imam, a key post in Iran with significant religious and political import. He was elected a parliamentarian in 1980, representing Tehran in the Majlis. A year later, he was elected the President of Iran after the assassination of then president Mohammad Ali Rajai, and went on to serve two terms till 1989. After the death of Khomeini in 1989, he was elected by the Assembly of Experts as the Supreme Leader of Iran. Thus, the son of a simple Islamic scholar became the ultimate authority over Iran’s political, military, social and religious life. Over the years, Khamanei served in several other important positions in Iran, including as the chairman of the Revolution’s Cultural Council, President of the Expediency Council, and Chairman of the Committee for Revision of the Constitution. Survivor of assassination attempts Much of the hagiography around Khamenei is about his survival of assassination attempts. While several of the attempts are either unreported or underplayed in Iran, two of them stand out. Perhaps the most prominent is the bid on his life in 1981. The Friday prayer bomb attack On 27 June 1981, Khamenei was at a Friday sermon at Abuzar Mosque in Tehran when a bomb exploded near him. The bomb, hidden in a tape recorder, severely injured Khamenei, leaving him permanently paralysed in his right arm. The blast also damaged his vocal cords and lungs. After months in the hospital, Khamenei came back to the limelight. The assassination attempt and survival made him almost a demigod for his supporters. Attack at Tehran University An almost similar attack took place on 15 March 1985 in Tehran University, again during Friday prayers. This time, it was a suicide bomber. Khamenei, who was president at the time, escaped unharmed, even as several people died in the blast. Khamenei continued in office, but this time, he began a crackdown on opposition groups. There have been other reported attempts on the life of Khamenei, including a drone attack in 2022. Who all wanted him dead? The opposition group Mojahedin-e Khalq or MEK was the 1981 attack perpetrators, according to Iran’s official narrative. For the 1985 attack, no group has been named officially, but the needle of suspicion still pointed to MEK. Over the past two decades, Israel has been among the main adversaries who wanted Khamenei dead. In the first hours of its attacks on Iran this month, Israel reportedly targeted Khamenei's residence or nearby areas. He is reportedly sheltering in a bunker. And Israel is closing in. Iran’s military leaders and Khamenei's top advisor Ali Shamkhani are among those killed in Israel’s initial wave of airstrikes on June 13. With several top names in his inner circle gone, Khamenei, one of the longest-serving leaders of West Asia, is looking more vulnerable than ever. But will he weather this storm too? Watch this space.

&nbsp;Khamenei has been in power for 36 years, making him one of the oldest heads of state in the present world. No small feat, given who all wanted him dead &nbsp;

Israel wants to kill Ali Khamenei but he's survived assassination bids in the past. Who wanted Iran Supreme Leader dead? A profile

Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions after the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran. The senior White House reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs, &nbsp;posted on the social media platform X, saying that Trump commented during his midnight and abrupt departure from the G7 Summit in Canada.&nbsp;"I didn't say I was looking for a ceasefire," the American president said on AF1. Trump said he wants a "real end" to the conflict by making Iran give up "entirely" on its nuclear aims.&nbsp;Moreover, Trump also hinted that Israel is not planning to slow down its strikes on Iran any time soon. Rather, he predicted that in the coming two days, people will "find out" what's going to happen.&nbsp;"You're going to find out over the next two days. You're going to find out. Nobody's slowed up so far," Trump told the agency while heading for something “much bigger” than a ceasefire between the two war-torn countries.&nbsp;When he was asked about his comment, "evacuate Tehran," Trump told the journalist he just wants “people to be safe.”&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">BREAKING: Trump wants &quot;a real end&quot; to the nuclear problem with Iran and this morning will find him in the White House Situation Room, monitoring developments in Middle East, he told us during his midnight departure from Canada. &quot;I didn&#39;t say I was looking for a ceasefire,&quot; he…&mdash; Jennifer Jacobs (@JenniferJJacobs) <a href="https://twitter.com/JenniferJJacobs/status/1934866991602397382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;He said he needed to be present at the White House and not Canada. He said at the White House, he can be "well-versed" and not have to rely on phones to know what's happening.&nbsp;When he was asked about whether there was any possible threat to the US in the ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran, the American president said Tehran knows "not to touch our troops."&nbsp;He said during any threat, the US would "come down so hard if they do anything to our people."&nbsp;When asked if US involvement would destroy Iran's nuclear program, Trump said he hopes their program "is wiped out long before that."&nbsp;

Trump wants real end to Iran nuke desires; in an eerie warning says people will find out what going to happen

Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions after the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran. The senior White House reporter of CBS News, Jennifer Jacobs, posted on the social media platform X, saying that Trump commented during his midnight and abrupt departure from the G7 Summit in Canada. "I didn't say I was looking for a ceasefire," the American president said on AF1. Trump said he wants a "real end" to the conflict by making Iran give up "entirely" on its nuclear aims. Moreover, Trump also hinted that Israel is not planning to slow down its strikes on Iran any time soon. Rather, he predicted that in the coming two days, people will "find out" what's going to happen. "You're going to find out over the next two days. You're going to find out. Nobody's slowed up so far," Trump told the agency while heading for something “much bigger” than a ceasefire between the two war-torn countries. When he was asked about his comment, "evacuate Tehran," Trump told the journalist he just wants “people to be safe.”

Amid the escalating tensions after the Israel-Iran war, the US President Donald Trump said he wants "a real end" to the nuclear problem with Iran. The senior White House reporter of CBS News posted Trump's comment on the social media platform X.&nbsp;

Trump wants 'real end' to Iran's nuke desires; in an eerie warning says people will 'find out' what's going to happen

Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said "all those who have tried to change regimes" using military operations in history have made “strategic errors.”&nbsp;Talking to the media during the G7 Summit 2025 on Tuesday (June 17), Macron said, "I believe that people are sovereign. They change their leaders by themselves, and all those who have tried to change regimes through strikes or military operations in the past have made strategic errors."&nbsp;"That's what experience teaches us, and I don't think it's up to foreign powers to change current political regimes," he added.&nbsp;This came after the US President Donald Trump left the summit abruptly and posted on his social media - "evacuate Tehran."&nbsp;When asked about the reason for his early departure, Macron told the media that Trump was headed to work on a ceasefire deal between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;Although his claim was strictly rejected by the American president, who alleged his French counterpart said that in a "publicity" stunt.&nbsp;"Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.&nbsp;"He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!" he added.&nbsp;Earlier, after leaving the summit, Trump also posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, "evacuate Tehran." The comment made a chaotic situation as it came during Israel's reported strike in Tehran.&nbsp;“Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his social media.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Macron calls Israel-Iran war strategic error? Says foreign powers can not change current political regimes 


Israel-Iran War: Amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said "all those who have tried to change regimes" using military operations in history have made “strategic errors.” Talking to the media during the G7 Summit 2025 on Tuesday (June 17), Macron said, "I believe that people are sovereign. They change their leaders by themselves, and all those who have tried to change regimes through strikes or military operations in the past have made strategic errors." "That's what experience teaches us, and I don't think it's up to foreign powers to change current political regimes," he added. This came after the US President Donald Trump left the summit abruptly and posted on his social media - "evacuate Tehran." When asked about the reason for his early departure, Macron told the media that Trump was headed to work on a ceasefire deal between Israel and Iran. Although his claim was strictly rejected by the American president, who alleged his French counterpart said that in a "publicity" stunt. "Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to D.C. to work on a “cease fire” between Israel and Iran. Wrong!" Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social. "He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a Cease Fire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay Tuned!" he added. Earlier, after leaving the summit, Trump also posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, "evacuate Tehran." The comment made a chaotic situation as it came during Israel's reported strike in Tehran. “Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his social media.

Amid the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, French President Emmanuel Macron said "all those who have tried to change regimes" using military operations in history have made “strategic errors.”

Macron calls Israel-Iran war strategic error? Says foreign powers can't change current political regimes

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of the Islamic Republic unveiled a new loitering munition, the Shahed-107, on Monday (June 16). As per the Iranian news agency Mehr, Shahed-107 has been used for suicide operations against hostile targets.&nbsp;Images of the drone show it is equipped with a piston engine that allows the aircraft to fly at a range of over 1,500 kilometres. The Iranian publication said the suicide drone can cause significant harm to the "Zionist regime’s air defence capabilities."&nbsp;Other than this, not much official specification has been revealed by the Iranian authorities regarding the drone.This came after some visuals circulated on social media showing an Iranian drone attacking Israel. It was speculated that the drone was quite similar to Shahed-107. The drone was seen approaching the Arrow 3 air defence missile system of Israel.&nbsp;By analysing the pictures, it can be evaluated that the drone has an elongated fuselage. It is cylindrical with a pointed nose.&nbsp;It is to be noted that the drone - &nbsp;Shahed-107 - was already unveiled in the public information space, but it's only now that its images have been published.&nbsp;In January 2024, the American news agency Sky News reported that several such drones could have been transferred to Russia as part of an agreement between Russia and Iran.At that time, the available information said that the drone was &nbsp;2.5 meters long and had a wingspan of up to 3 meters. &nbsp;&nbsp;Judging by the photos currently available, the drone’s geometric parameters - wingspan and fuselage length - visually correspond to the characteristics given earlier.&nbsp;‘Israel has a right to defend itself’&nbsp;&nbsp;In the G7 Summit 2025, world leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, “We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran unveils new suicide drone Shahed-107. Here is all about aircraft capable of significant harm to Israel

Israel-Iran War: Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of the Islamic Republic unveiled a new loitering munition, the Shahed-107, on Monday (June 16). As per the Iranian news agency Mehr, Shahed-107 has been used for suicide operations against hostile targets. Images of the drone show it is equipped with a piston engine that allows the aircraft to fly at a range of over 1,500 kilometres. The Iranian publication said the suicide drone can cause significant harm to the "Zionist regime’s air defence capabilities." Other than this, not much official specification has been revealed by the Iranian authorities regarding the drone. This came after some visuals circulated on social media showing an Iranian drone attacking Israel. It was speculated that the drone was quite similar to Shahed-107. The drone was seen approaching the Arrow 3 air defence missile system of Israel. By analysing the pictures, it can be evaluated that the drone has an elongated fuselage. It is cylindrical with a pointed nose. It is to be noted that the drone - Shahed-107 - was already unveiled in the public information space, but it's only now that its images have been published. In January 2024, the American news agency Sky News reported that several such drones could have been transferred to Russia as part of an agreement between Russia and Iran. At that time, the available information said that the drone was 2.5 meters long and had a wingspan of up to 3 meters. Judging by the photos currently available, the drone’s geometric parameters - wingspan and fuselage length - visually correspond to the characteristics given earlier. ‘Israel has a right to defend itself’ In the G7 Summit 2025, world leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, “We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel.”

Amid the ongoing Israel-Iran war, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of the Islamic Republic unveiled a new loitering munition, the Shahed-107, on Monday (June 16). &nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran unveils new suicide drone Shahed-107. Here's all about aircraft capable of 'significant harm' to Israel

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