Since the start of the Israel-Iran war, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been making bold remarks against the US and President Donald Trump as America joined Israel in attacking Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, Isfahan and Natanz, with an aim to destroy Iran's capability of building nuclear weapons.In the first week of the war, Iranian Leader Khamenei issued a grave warning to the US on June 18, telling them that the country would suffer "irreparable damage" if it engaged in any military actions against Iran.<h2>'Irreparable damage'</h2>“The Americans should know that any U.S. military intervention will undoubtedly be accompanied by irreparable damage,” Khamenei said in a televised address.He added that the damage it will face will be "far greater" than any harm that Iran may encounter. He further said that the Iranian nation is not frightened by Trump's threats."The US President threatens us. With his absurd rhetoric, he demands that the Iranian people surrender to him. They should make threats against those who are afraid of being threatened," he said.<h2>Four-word reply to Trump's warning</h2>On the same day, Khamenei issued a strong response to the threats from the US. Trump demanded "unconditional surrender" from Iran, but Khamenei responded with four words - "Iran will not surrender".“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.After the US attacked Iran's nuclear sites, Khamenei vowed punishment for Israel, saying that the punishment would continue. "The Zionist enemy has made a big mistake, committed a big crime; it must be punished and it is being punished; it is being punished right now.”On Tuesday, Khamenei issued another remark against the US after its attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. He said, "We didn't harm anyone. And we will not accept any harassment from anyone under any circumstances.” Sharing an image of a burning US flag amid a war-like situation, “…we will not submit to anyone's harassment; This is the logic of the Iranian nation,” he added.<h2>'US will pay a heavy price'</h2>Today (Thursday), after the two countries agreed to a ceasefire after Trump's announcement, Khamenei again warned the US that an attack similar to what happened to Al-Udeid Air Base can be repeated in the future too.He said that Iran attacked and inflicted damage on the Al-Udeid Air Base, which is one of the key US bases in the region. Such an action "can be repeated in the future too, and America will definitely pay a heavy price, he said."The fact that the Islamic Republic has access to key US centers in the region and can take action whenever it deems necessary is a significant matter. Such an action can be repeated in the future too. Should any aggression occur, the enemy will definitely pay a heavy price," Khamenei said.<h2>'Heavy slap to US's face'</h2>The Iranian leader said that Iran delivered a "heavy slap to the US's face", adding that America gained no achievement from this war."The Islamic Republic delivered a heavy slap to the US’s face. It attacked and inflicted damage on the Al-Udeid Air Base, which is one of the key US bases in the region," Khamenei wrote on X after his televised message was released in minutes.Not just the US, Khamenei issued three threatening messages to Israel after it attacked Iran's nuclear facilities, and killed military officials as well as nuclear scientists.Moreover, before the Israel-Iran war started, Khamenei had been warning US President Trump as the two nations engaged in a conflict regarding the nuclear programme. When Trump threatened to bomb Iran, the Iranian leader warned that the US would face a "strong blow" if it followed through on its military threat.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In the first week of the war, Iranian Leader Khamenei issued a grave warning to the US on June 18, telling them that the country would suffer "irreparable damage" if it engaged in any military actions against Iran.

Since the start of the Israel-Iran war, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been making bold remarks against the US and President Donald Trump as America joined Israel in attacking Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow, Isfahan and Natanz, with an aim to destroy Iran's capability of building nuclear weapons. In the first week of the war, Iranian Leader Khamenei issued a grave warning to the US on June 18, telling them that the country would suffer "irreparable damage" if it engaged in any military actions against Iran. 'Irreparable damage' “The Americans should know that any U.S. military intervention will undoubtedly be accompanied by irreparable damage,” Khamenei said in a televised address. He added that the damage it will face will be "far greater" than any harm that Iran may encounter. He further said that the Iranian nation is not frightened by Trump's threats. "The US President threatens us. With his absurd rhetoric, he demands that the Iranian people surrender to him. They should make threats against those who are afraid of being threatened," he said. Four-word reply to Trump's warning On the same day, Khamenei issued a strong response to the threats from the US. Trump demanded "unconditional surrender" from Iran, but Khamenei responded with four words - "Iran will not surrender". “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. After the US attacked Iran's nuclear sites, Khamenei vowed punishment for Israel, saying that the punishment would continue. "The Zionist enemy has made a big mistake, committed a big crime; it must be punished and it is being punished; it is being punished right now.” On Tuesday, Khamenei issued another remark against the US after its attack on Iranian nuclear facilities. He said, "We didn't harm anyone. And we will not accept any harassment from anyone under any circumstances.” Sharing an image of a burning US flag amid a war-like situation, “…we will not submit to anyone's harassment; This is the logic of the Iranian nation,” he added. 'US will pay a heavy price' Today (Thursday), after the two countries agreed to a ceasefire after Trump's announcement, Khamenei again warned the US that an attack similar to what happened to Al-Udeid Air Base can be repeated in the future too. He said that Iran attacked and inflicted damage on the Al-Udeid Air Base, which is one of the key US bases in the region. Such an action "can be repeated in the future too, and America will definitely pay a heavy price, he said. "The fact that the Islamic Republic has access to key US centers in the region and can take action whenever it deems necessary is a significant matter. Such an action can be repeated in the future too. Should any aggression occur, the enemy will definitely pay a heavy price," Khamenei said. 'Heavy slap to US's face' The Iranian leader said that Iran delivered a "heavy slap to the US's face", adding that America gained no achievement from this war. "The Islamic Republic delivered a heavy slap to the US’s face. It attacked and inflicted damage on the Al-Udeid Air Base, which is one of the key US bases in the region," Khamenei wrote on X after his televised message was released in minutes. Not just the US, Khamenei issued three threatening messages to Israel after it attacked Iran's nuclear facilities, and killed military officials as well as nuclear scientists. Moreover, before the Israel-Iran war started, Khamenei had been warning US President Trump as the two nations engaged in a conflict regarding the nuclear programme. When Trump threatened to bomb Iran, the Iranian leader warned that the US would face a "strong blow" if it followed through on its military threat.

In the first week of the war, Iranian Leader Khamenei issued a grave warning to the US on June 18, telling them that the country would suffer "irreparable damage" if it engaged in any military actions against Iran.

'Irreparable damage, slap on face...': Times when Khamenei issued BOLD warnings to Trump after US entered Israel-Iran war

The United States' decision to join Israel in direct strikes on Iran's nuclear sites marks a significant escalation in a long and turbulent history. However, this conflict is not new, it didn't begin in 2025, nor in 1979, but decades earlier with oil, colonial interests, and a CIA-backed coup. There is a decade long struggle for power between Iran and the West. Here's a detailed look at how nearly a century of intervention, revolution, nuclear diplomacy, and proxy wars have led to the current flashpoint. The earliest known point of the conflict was in 1951.&nbsp;<h2>1951–1953: The Oil Crisis and Mossadegh's Fall</h2>In the early 50's Iran had a liberal Prime Minister nurturing a delicate democracy, who believed in shipping the country's oil resources offshore and using that wealth in investing on the country and it's people. The Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh’s nationalisation of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company in 1951, however, threatened British and Western oil interests. The response was very swift and covert. In 1953, the CIA and British intelligence orchestrated a coup also known as 'Operation Ajax', deposing Mossadegh and restoring the Shah to power, this was proved through a declassified document of the CIA which admits to 'Ajax' 'having a hand' in demonstrations that spilled onto the streets of Tehran. The Shah’s government later signed the 1954 Consortium Agreement, giving British, American, and French oil firms 40% ownership of Iran’s oil for 25 years.&nbsp;<h2>1957: Nuclear Cooperation Begins</h2>&nbsp;Under President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 'Atoms for Peace' initiative, Iran received nuclear technology from the US. This was after the US and Iran signed the Cooperation Concerning Civil Uses of Atoms agreement. This cooperation laid the groundwork for Iran’s nuclear programme, with the US even supplying weapons-grade uranium and a reactor.&nbsp;<h2>1979: Revolution and Rupture</h2>&nbsp;A popular uprising overthrew the US-backed Shah in 1979, replacing the monarchy with Ayatollah Khomeini’s Islamic Republic. That year, Iranian protestors also seized the US Embassy in Tehran, taking 52 Americans hostage for about 444 days. Khomeini took power as the supreme leader in December, resultantly turning Iran from a pro-West monarchy to a vehemently anti-West Islamic theocracy. As a result, the diplomatic ties between the two countries were severed and never fully restored. The Iranian oil imports were sanctioned and Iranian assets were blocked.&nbsp;<h2>1980s: Proxy War and Sanctions</h2>&nbsp;During the Iran-Iraq War (1980–88), the US supported Saddam Hussein’s Iraq against the war, despite Iraq's use of chemical weapons. Iran paid a heavy price, losing over a million people in the conflict. In 1988, the US Navy accidently shot down an Iranian passenger plane, killing all 290 civilians on-board. The US also imposed heavy sanctions throughout the decade.&nbsp;<h2>1990s: Isolation Deepens</h2><h2>&nbsp;</h2>The US ramped up sanctions under Presidents Bush and Clinton administrations. The 1996 Iran and Libya Sanctions Act targeted foreign investment in Iran’s energy sector imposing an embargo against these non-American companies investing more than $20 million per year. Meanwhile, Qasem Soleimani rose through the ranks of the IRGC, eventually leading the Quds Force, Iran’s elite military unit focused on foreign operations.&nbsp;<h2>2000s: Axis of Evil and Nuclear Suspicion</h2>&nbsp;In 2002, President George W. Bush labelled Iran part of the "Axis of Evil" along with Iraq and N. Korea. Even though Iran helped the US post-9/11 against the Taliban, tensions escalated over nuclear development. In 2003 found traces of enriched uranium, however, Iran denies plans for a bomb. By 2006, Iran was enriching uranium and dismissing Western concerns.&nbsp;<h2>2015: The Nuclear Deal</h2>&nbsp;After years of negotiation, Iran finally signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with the US and world powers in 2015. This deal limited Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for easing the sanctions. President Obama called it a historic step toward non-proliferation.&nbsp;<h2>2018: Trump Withdraws</h2>&nbsp;President Donald Trump withdrew from the JCPOA, calling it 'one-sided' and 'the worst deal ever'. He reinstated sanctions under a 'maximum pressure' campaign on Iran. Iran responded by ramping up uranium enrichment, breaching the deal’s limits. Trump later designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) which is a branch of the Iranian army—a foreign terrorist organization (FTO).&nbsp;<h2>2020: Soleimani’s Assassination</h2>&nbsp;In January 2020, the US killed Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike in Baghdad after Trump's order. Soleimani was considered as the most powerful person after Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on US bases in Iraq, in the process, accidentally shooting down a Ukrainian passenger jet. The move marked a sharp deterioration in relations. Iran's parliament approves a bill to boost uranium enrichment to 20 per cent which was far beyond the concentrations permitted by the JCPOA.&nbsp;<h2>2021–2022: Stalled Diplomacy</h2>&nbsp;The Biden administration attempted to revive the nuclear deal, but talks stalled, particularly after hardliner Ebrahim Raisi became the president of Iran. Iran began supplying drones to Russia during the Ukraine war, further straining relations with the West.&nbsp;<h2>2023: A Fragile Thaw</h2>In 2023, the US and Iran conducted a prisoner swap, and $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds were released. The Republican lawmakers, however, criticise the deal, which is said to be mediated by governments including Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, as a ransom paid to a hostile government. But the detente was short-lived. In October, Hamas attacked Israel killing more than 1,200 civilians. Though Iran denied involvement, tensions soared again.&nbsp;<h2>2024: Direct Attacks Begin</h2>&nbsp;For the first time ever, Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel in April and again in October. Israel retaliated with its largest direct attack on Iranian soil, with the help of US military and intelligence support.&nbsp;<h2>2025: From Pressure to War</h2>&nbsp;January: Trump returned to office for the second time, and revived his 'maximum pressure' strategy on Iran. March: The US and Iran began a series of negotiations aimed at reaching a nuclear peace agreement following a letter sent by Trump to Khamenei, the letter set a two-month deadline for the agreement. April–May: Indirect talks between US and Iran, mediated by Oman and held in Rome failed. Iran refused to halt uranium enrichment. June 13: Israel bombed major Iranian nuclear facilities. Trump initially distanced himself. June 22: The US officially entered the conflict, targeting Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites. President Trump called it 'a clear warning'. Khamenei went into hiding into a secure underground bunker, fearing an assassination attempt. In a televised statement, Trump said, "Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated." He confirmed that 30 Tomahawk missiles and six GBU-57 bunker-busters were used. &nbsp;

There is a decade long struggle for power between Iran and the West. Here's a detailed look at how nearly a century of intervention, revolution, nuclear diplomacy and proxy wars have led to the current flashpoint. The earliest known point of the conflict was in 1951.

The United States' decision to join Israel in direct strikes on Iran's nuclear sites marks a significant escalation in a long and turbulent history. However, this conflict is not new, it didn't begin in 2025, nor in 1979, but decades earlier with oil, colonial interests, and a CIA-backed coup. There is a decade long struggle for power between Iran and the West. Here's a detailed look at how nearly a century of intervention, revolution, nuclear diplomacy, and proxy wars have led to the current flashpoint. The earliest known point of the conflict was in 1951. 1951–1953: The Oil Crisis and Mossadegh's Fall In the early 50's Iran had a liberal Prime Minister nurturing a delicate democracy, who believed in shipping the country's oil resources offshore and using that wealth in investing on the country and it's people. The Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh’s nationalisation of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company in 1951, however, threatened British and Western oil interests. The response was very swift and covert. In 1953, the CIA and British intelligence orchestrated a coup also known as 'Operation Ajax', deposing Mossadegh and restoring the Shah to power, this was proved through a declassified document of the CIA which admits to 'Ajax' 'having a hand' in demonstrations that spilled onto the streets of Tehran. The Shah’s government later signed the 1954 Consortium Agreement, giving British, American, and French oil firms 40% ownership of Iran’s oil for 25 years. 1957: Nuclear Cooperation Begins Under President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 'Atoms for Peace' initiative, Iran received nuclear technology from the US. This was after the US and Iran signed the Cooperation Concerning Civil Uses of Atoms agreement. This cooperation laid the groundwork for Iran’s nuclear programme, with the US even supplying weapons-grade uranium and a reactor. 1979: Revolution and Rupture A popular uprising overthrew the US-backed Shah in 1979, replacing the monarchy with Ayatollah Khomeini’s Islamic Republic. That year, Iranian protestors also seized the US Embassy in Tehran, taking 52 Americans hostage for about 444 days. Khomeini took power as the supreme leader in December, resultantly turning Iran from a pro-West monarchy to a vehemently anti-West Islamic theocracy. As a result, the diplomatic ties between the two countries were severed and never fully restored. The Iranian oil imports were sanctioned and Iranian assets were blocked. 1980s: Proxy War and Sanctions During the Iran-Iraq War (1980–88), the US supported Saddam Hussein’s Iraq against the war, despite Iraq's use of chemical weapons. Iran paid a heavy price, losing over a million people in the conflict. In 1988, the US Navy accidently shot down an Iranian passenger plane, killing all 290 civilians on-board. The US also imposed heavy sanctions throughout the decade. 1990s: Isolation Deepens The US ramped up sanctions under Presidents Bush and Clinton administrations. The 1996 Iran and Libya Sanctions Act targeted foreign investment in Iran’s energy sector imposing an embargo against these non-American companies investing more than $20 million per year. Meanwhile, Qasem Soleimani rose through the ranks of the IRGC, eventually leading the Quds Force, Iran’s elite military unit focused on foreign operations. 2000s: Axis of Evil and Nuclear Suspicion In 2002, President George W. Bush labelled Iran part of the "Axis of Evil" along with Iraq and N. Korea. Even though Iran helped the US post-9/11 against the Taliban, tensions escalated over nuclear development. In 2003 found traces of enriched uranium, however, Iran denies plans for a bomb. By 2006, Iran was enriching uranium and dismissing Western concerns. 2015: The Nuclear Deal After years of negotiation, Iran finally signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with the US and world powers in 2015. This deal limited Iran’s nuclear programme in exchange for easing the sanctions. President Obama called it a historic step toward non-proliferation. 2018: Trump Withdraws President Donald Trump withdrew from the JCPOA, calling it 'one-sided' and 'the worst deal ever'. He reinstated sanctions under a 'maximum pressure' campaign on Iran. Iran responded by ramping up uranium enrichment, breaching the deal’s limits. Trump later designated the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) which is a branch of the Iranian army—a foreign terrorist organization (FTO). 2020: Soleimani’s Assassination In January 2020, the US killed Qasem Soleimani in a drone strike in Baghdad after Trump's order. Soleimani was considered as the most powerful person after Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on US bases in Iraq, in the process, accidentally shooting down a Ukrainian passenger jet. The move marked a sharp deterioration in relations. Iran's parliament approves a bill to boost uranium enrichment to 20 per cent which was far beyond the concentrations permitted by the JCPOA. 2021–2022: Stalled Diplomacy The Biden administration attempted to revive the nuclear deal, but talks stalled, particularly after hardliner Ebrahim Raisi became the president of Iran. Iran began supplying drones to Russia during the Ukraine war, further straining relations with the West. 2023: A Fragile Thaw In 2023, the US and Iran conducted a prisoner swap, and $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds were released. The Republican lawmakers, however, criticise the deal, which is said to be mediated by governments including Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, as a ransom paid to a hostile government. But the detente was short-lived. In October, Hamas attacked Israel killing more than 1,200 civilians. Though Iran denied involvement, tensions soared again. 2024: Direct Attacks Begin For the first time ever, Iran launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israel in April and again in October. Israel retaliated with its largest direct attack on Iranian soil, with the help of US military and intelligence support. 2025: From Pressure to War January: Trump returned to office for the second time, and revived his 'maximum pressure' strategy on Iran. March: The US and Iran began a series of negotiations aimed at reaching a nuclear peace agreement following a letter sent by Trump to Khamenei, the letter set a two-month deadline for the agreement. April–May: Indirect talks between US and Iran, mediated by Oman and held in Rome failed. Iran refused to halt uranium enrichment. June 13: Israel bombed major Iranian nuclear facilities. Trump initially distanced himself. June 22: The US officially entered the conflict, targeting Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites. President Trump called it 'a clear warning'. Khamenei went into hiding into a secure underground bunker, fearing an assassination attempt. In a televised statement, Trump said, "Iran’s key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated." He confirmed that 30 Tomahawk missiles and six GBU-57 bunker-busters were used.

There is a decade long struggle for power between Iran and the West. Here's a detailed look at how nearly a century of intervention, revolution, nuclear diplomacy, and proxy wars have led to the current flashpoint. The earliest known point of the conflict was in 1951.

Explained | A history of treachery, treaties, and the blade of war: Understanding the US–Iran love–hate saga

Amid continuing talk of a possible regime change in Iran in the wake of its ongoing war with Israel, Russia has firmly opposed any such move. The Kremlin described a potential regime change as unaccpetable and unimaginable, while also warning that killing the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei would open a Pandora's Box in the region.&nbsp; The comments from Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov came amid speculation of a regime change, with the possible involvement of the US in the war. US President Donald Trump has been ambivalent about the same, saying that the US knows exactly where Khamenei is, while also giving two weeks' time for Iran and Israel to resolve the conflict.<h2>Russia opposes regime change in Iran, assassination of Khamenei</h2>Peskov said Russia will react 'very negatively' to Khamenei's assassination if it happens. A regime change in Iran, Peskov said, "is unimaginable," adding: "It should be unacceptable, even talking about that should be unacceptable for everyone." He warned that a regime change or threats to Iranian leadership will "open Pandora's box," and cause more instability in the Middle East and beyond."It would lead to the birth of extremist moods inside Iran and those who are speaking about [Khamenei assassination], they should keep it in mind. They will open the Pandora's box," Peskov told Sky News in an interview published Friday (June 20). <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-iran-s-supreme-leader-ali-khamenei-issues-warning-says-zionist-enemy-being-punished-1750411568337/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-iran-s-supreme-leader-ali-khamenei-issues-warning-says-zionist-enemy-being-punished-1750411568337/embed</a> "The situation is extremely tense and is dangerous not only for the region but globally. An enlargement of the composition of the participants of the conflict is potentially even more dangerous. It will lead only to another circle of confrontation and escalation of tension in the region," &nbsp;he added.<h2>Where does the US stand on possible assassination of Khamenei?</h2>According to western and Israeli reports, Israel had made a proposal to Trump to assassinate the Iranian Supreme Leader, which he rejected. Trump later said in a Truth Social post that US does not plan to kill Khamanei “for now.” Asked if Russia would respond to an attack targeting Khamenei, Peskov said any reaction would 'come from inside Iran'.<h2>Russia's mediation offer was rejected by Trump</h2>Russia, a traditional close ally of Iran, had entered into a strategic partnership with the Islamic Republic in January. It should be noted that Iran had supplied many drones and ballistic missiles to Russia, which it used in its ongoing war against Ukraine.Russian President Vladimir Putin had reportedly reached out to Iranian and Israeli leaders in the wake of the June 13 attack on Iran by Israel. The Kremlin said Israel was reluctant to accept the peace proposal, while the EU leaders rejected it.Trump earlier this week brushed off Russia's offer to mediate in the Israel-Iran war. He asked Putin to "mediate your own" war, referring to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;While calling Trump's language unique, Peskov urged mutual tolerance.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in the Israel-Iran conflict. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

Iran had supplied many drones and ballistic missiles to Russia that it used in its ongoing war against Ukraine.

Amid continuing talk of a possible regime change in Iran in the wake of its ongoing war with Israel, Russia has firmly opposed any such move. The Kremlin described a potential regime change as unaccpetable and unimaginable, while also warning that killing the Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei would open a Pandora's Box in the region. The comments from Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov came amid speculation of a regime change, with the possible involvement of the US in the war. US President Donald Trump has been ambivalent about the same, saying that the US knows exactly where Khamenei is, while also giving two weeks' time for Iran and Israel to resolve the conflict. Russia opposes regime change in Iran, assassination of Khamenei Peskov said Russia will react 'very negatively' to Khamenei's assassination if it happens. A regime change in Iran, Peskov said, "is unimaginable," adding: "It should be unacceptable, even talking about that should be unacceptable for everyone." He warned that a regime change or threats to Iranian leadership will "open Pandora's box," and cause more instability in the Middle East and beyond. "It would lead to the birth of extremist moods inside Iran and those who are speaking about [Khamenei assassination], they should keep it in mind. They will open the Pandora's box," Peskov told Sky News in an interview published Friday (June 20). https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-iran-s-supreme-leader-ali-khamenei-issues-warning-says-zionist-enemy-being-punished-1750411568337/embed "The situation is extremely tense and is dangerous not only for the region but globally. An enlargement of the composition of the participants of the conflict is potentially even more dangerous. It will lead only to another circle of confrontation and escalation of tension in the region," he added. Where does the US stand on possible assassination of Khamenei? According to western and Israeli reports, Israel had made a proposal to Trump to assassinate the Iranian Supreme Leader, which he rejected. Trump later said in a Truth Social post that US does not plan to kill Khamanei “for now.” Asked if Russia would respond to an attack targeting Khamenei, Peskov said any reaction would 'come from inside Iran'. Russia's mediation offer was rejected by Trump Russia, a traditional close ally of Iran, had entered into a strategic partnership with the Islamic Republic in January. It should be noted that Iran had supplied many drones and ballistic missiles to Russia, which it used in its ongoing war against Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin had reportedly reached out to Iranian and Israeli leaders in the wake of the June 13 attack on Iran by Israel. The Kremlin said Israel was reluctant to accept the peace proposal, while the EU leaders rejected it. Trump earlier this week brushed off Russia's offer to mediate in the Israel-Iran war. He asked Putin to "mediate your own" war, referring to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While calling Trump's language unique, Peskov urged mutual tolerance. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments in the Israel-Iran conflict. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.

It should be noted that Iran had supplied many drones and ballistic missiles to Russia that it used in its ongoing war against Ukraine. &nbsp;

A Pandora's Box: Iran regime change coming? Russia calls it unimaginable, unacceptable, warns killing Khamenei will...

Israel has reportedly launched strikes in Tehran’s Pasteur neighbourhood, where the residences of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei are located, NYT reported. According to The New York Times, air defence systems in the area have been “firing non-stop” in response to the assault.Pasteur is known as one of Tehran’s most heavily guarded areas, housing key government and military offices. The latest attack signals a serious escalation in the conflict, as Israeli forces appear to be targeting high-profile Iranian leadership zones directly.<h2>Israel responds after wave of Iranian drone and missile attacks</h2>This escalation follows Iran’s launch of more than 100 drones towards Israeli territory. While most of these were intercepted by Israel’s air defence systems, a second wave of missile attacks followed. Some missiles managed to strike Israeli cities, injuring dozens.Around 40 people were taken to hospitals across Israel, with two reported to be in critical condition.Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Avichay Adraee confirmed the missile strikes. In a post on X, he said, “There are a limited number of buildings that were hit, some due to shrapnel from interception operations.” He added that most of the incoming missiles were either intercepted or failed to hit their targets.<h2>Israeli minister warns Iran of consequences</h2>Responding to the Iranian attacks, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz accused Tehran of escalating tensions by targeting civilian areas. “Tehran will pay a heavy price,” he warned. Katz said Iran had “crossed red lines by launching missiles towards Israeli civilian areas.”Iran’s missile and drone attacks were in retaliation to Israel’s earlier offensive on 13 June. That strike, which targeted Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure, killed four senior Iranian officers, including Major General Mohammad Bagheri and Major General Hossein Salami.Iranian media later reported that six nuclear scientists and 78 civilians, including women and children, also lost their lives in the attack, with dozens more injured.

Pasteur is known as one of Tehran’s most heavily guarded areas, housing key government and military offices. The latest attack signals a serious escalation in the conflict, as Israeli forces appear to be targeting high-profile Iranian leadership zones directly.

Israel has reportedly launched strikes in Tehran’s Pasteur neighbourhood, where the residences of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei are located, NYT reported. According to The New York Times, air defence systems in the area have been “firing non-stop” in response to the assault. Pasteur is known as one of Tehran’s most heavily guarded areas, housing key government and military offices. The latest attack signals a serious escalation in the conflict, as Israeli forces appear to be targeting high-profile Iranian leadership zones directly. Israel responds after wave of Iranian drone and missile attacks This escalation follows Iran’s launch of more than 100 drones towards Israeli territory. While most of these were intercepted by Israel’s air defence systems, a second wave of missile attacks followed. Some missiles managed to strike Israeli cities, injuring dozens. Around 40 people were taken to hospitals across Israel, with two reported to be in critical condition. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Avichay Adraee confirmed the missile strikes. In a post on X, he said, “There are a limited number of buildings that were hit, some due to shrapnel from interception operations.” He added that most of the incoming missiles were either intercepted or failed to hit their targets. Israeli minister warns Iran of consequences Responding to the Iranian attacks, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz accused Tehran of escalating tensions by targeting civilian areas. “Tehran will pay a heavy price,” he warned. Katz said Iran had “crossed red lines by launching missiles towards Israeli civilian areas.” Iran’s missile and drone attacks were in retaliation to Israel’s earlier offensive on 13 June. That strike, which targeted Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure, killed four senior Iranian officers, including Major General Mohammad Bagheri and Major General Hossein Salami. Iranian media later reported that six nuclear scientists and 78 civilians, including women and children, also lost their lives in the attack, with dozens more injured.

Pasteur is known as one of Tehran’s most heavily guarded areas, housing key government and military offices. The latest attack signals a serious escalation in the conflict, as Israeli forces appear to be targeting high-profile Iranian leadership zones directly.

Explosions near Khamenei’s residence: Israel strikes Tehran’s 'most guarded' Pasteur neighbourhood - Report

Tehran, Iran
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Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic.
Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces.
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“They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said.
He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.”
Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.”
Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?”
He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said.
Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts.
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.
(With inputs from agencies)

“They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said.



Tehran, Iran Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic. Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces. Also read: Pope Francis condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty,' Israel hits back “They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said. He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.” Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.” Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?” He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said. Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Khamenei rejects ‘proxy force’ accusations, says Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis act independently

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic.

Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has denied claims that Iran relies on proxy forces in the West Asia region, insisting that groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis act independently, based on their own convictions and beliefs, rather than under the direction of the Islamic Republic. Speaking on Sunday (December 22) during a gathering of elegists and eulogists to mark the birth anniversary of Hazrat Fatemeh Zahra (SA), the daughter of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Khamenei dismissed "absurd statements from Western and Israeli officials". He rejected the suggestion that Iran's influence in the region depends on the use of proxy forces. Also read: Pope Francis condemns Gaza bombings as 'cruelty,' Israel hits back “They constantly say that the Islamic Republic has lost its proxy forces in the region! This is another mistake! The Islamic Republic does not have proxy forces,” Khamenei said. He added, “Yemen fights because of its faith; Hezbollah fights because its faith empowers it to take action; Hamas and [Islamic] Jihad fight because their beliefs compel them to do so. They are not acting on our behalf.” Reiterating Iran’s ability to act independently, he said, “If one day we decide to take action, we do not need proxy forces.” Khamenei also commented on the situation in Syria, saying, “I predict that a powerful and honourable group will rise in Syria as well. A young Syrian has nothing to lose — his university is unsafe, his school is unsafe, his home is unsafe, his street is unsafe, his entire life is unsafe. What is he supposed to do?” He called for resistance against forces that he claimed were responsible for spreading instability in the region. “We must stand with strength and determination against those who have designed and implemented this insecurity, and God willing, we will prevail over them,” he said. Khamenei’s comments come amid scrutiny over Iran’s role in regional conflicts. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)