In the White House press briefing room, as tensions between Israel and Iran boiled over, current White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stepped to the podium with her voice rising with rehearsed conviction. It was vintage Trumpian spin—and the latest chapter in an era where the White House press secretary have become more marionette than messenger.&nbsp;The string of White House press secretaries in Donald Trump's first and second terms—Karoline Leavitt, Sean Spicer, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Stephanie Grisham, and Kayleigh McEnany—seemed less like independent communicators and more like synchronised marionettes, dangling from the same orange-tinted strings.&nbsp;&nbsp;In what should have been the most trusted voice between the presidency and the press, we instead saw a rotating cast of characters who were less about transparency and more about total fealty to one man’s narrative, no matter how bizarre or provably false. The role of the press secretary, traditionally one of poise, policy, and accountability, became under Trump a mouthpiece of performance—one that demanded absolute loyalty, shameless spin, and, above all, showmanship.<h2>Body language that screams ‘submission’</h2>Watch any footage—seriously, any—and you'll notice it: the stiff posture, the forced smiles, the furrowed brows, the clenched fists at the podium. Each secretary embodied their own physical version of damage control.&nbsp;Sean Spicer burst into the job like a man late to a meeting he didn’t understand. His now-iconic lie—“This was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration—period”—was delivered with the sweaty anxiety of someone trying to bluff through a lie detector test on live TV. His voice cracked, his eyes darted, and his knuckles whitened on the podium like he was holding onto credibility by a thread.&nbsp;Sarah Huckabee Sanders adopted a stoic wall-of-steel approach. Her eyes narrowed, her arms folded—a classic self-protective gesture—as she fielded questions with a half-smile and an expression that said: “I could not care less.” It wasn't confidence. It was deflection masked as deadpan.&nbsp;Kayleigh McEnany turned the job into a Harvard-polished performance. Her plastic smiles and over-rehearsed hand gestures gave off the polished sheen of a game show host crossed with a Sunday School teacher. Yet beneath the surface was relentless aggression, particularly in her habit of ending briefings mid-question with, “And with that, I’ll leave it there”—like a magician vanishing in a puff of evasion.&nbsp;Stephanie Grisham skipped the performance entirely. She held no press briefings during her entire tenure. That’s not a metaphor. She simply didn’t show up. She once justified it by saying: “I felt like the media was not good to us, so why give them a platform?”Which is like a firefighter refusing to fight fire because it’s “too hot.”&nbsp;And then there’s Karoline Leavitt, the newest inheritor of the Trumpian throne. She channels her boss’s sneer with youthful gusto, waving off journalistic scrutiny with the arrogance of a Twitter troll at a campaign rally. Her body language—tight, fidgety hands and a forward-thrust jaw—exudes aggression over poise, confrontation over clarity.<h2>Language that mirrors a master’s voice</h2>From day One, their linguistic loyalty was unmistakable. These weren’t spokespeople—they were translators of Trump. The vocabulary was predictable: “Fake news.” “Radical left.” “Witch hunt.” “Tremendous success.” Spicer lied loud. Sanders lied stone-faced. McEnany lied with legalese. Grisham lied by vanishing. Leavitt lies with snark and sarcasm.&nbsp;They weren't delivering facts; they were delivering feelings—Trump’s feelings. Journalists asking factual questions were treated as antagonists, not interlocutors. There was no longer an effort to explain the administration’s decisions; only to defend them, blindly and aggressively.&nbsp;Each press secretary channelled Trump’s grievances like tuning forks vibrating in MAGA frequency. Policy became secondary to personality, and press briefings transformed into ideological theatre—complete with props, binders, and moral grandstanding.<h2>A cult of personality on display</h2>More than anything, the Trump-era press secretaries were/are emblematic of a government that prized loyalty over truth. These individuals didn’t speak for the presidency. They spoke for Trump—the man, not the office he holds.&nbsp;Rather than serving as intermediaries between the public and the president, they became palace guards, protecting their king from uncomfortable facts. They weren’t trying to sell you on policy—they were trying to convince you that your eyes were lying. Their function wasn’t communication. It was containment.&nbsp;They were expected not just to control the narrative, but to mirror the mood. Angry Trump? Angry press secretary. Vindicated Trump? Triumphant press secretary. Cornered Trump? Defensive, sneering, combative press secretary. And through it all, they contorted themselves—physically and rhetorically—into whatever shape was needed to shield the man behind the curtain.<h2>The legacy: A podium of puppets</h2>What remains is a blueprint for what not to do. This isn’t just about individual failures. It’s about the institutional rot that occurs when the role of press secretary is weaponised as a propaganda tool. When truth becomes optional and performance becomes policy, the public suffers.&nbsp;From Spicer’s flop-sweat lies to Leavitt’s gleeful contempt, each of these figures proved that under Trump, the White House podium wasn’t a symbol of government transparency. It was a stage for submission, a megaphone for madness, and a place where truth went to die—draped in flags, buzzwords, and bad faith.&nbsp;And with that… we’ll leave it there.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Trump press secretaries only toe his line, and the new one is not any different

In the White House press briefing room, as tensions between Israel and Iran boiled over, current White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stepped to the podium with her voice rising with rehearsed conviction. It was vintage Trumpian spin—and the latest chapter in an era where the White House press secretary have become more marionette than messenger. The string of White House press secretaries in Donald Trump's first and second terms—Karoline Leavitt, Sean Spicer, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Stephanie Grisham, and Kayleigh McEnany—seemed less like independent communicators and more like synchronised marionettes, dangling from the same orange-tinted strings. In what should have been the most trusted voice between the presidency and the press, we instead saw a rotating cast of characters who were less about transparency and more about total fealty to one man’s narrative, no matter how bizarre or provably false. The role of the press secretary, traditionally one of poise, policy, and accountability, became under Trump a mouthpiece of performance—one that demanded absolute loyalty, shameless spin, and, above all, showmanship. Body language that screams ‘submission’ Watch any footage—seriously, any—and you'll notice it: the stiff posture, the forced smiles, the furrowed brows, the clenched fists at the podium. Each secretary embodied their own physical version of damage control. Sean Spicer burst into the job like a man late to a meeting he didn’t understand. His now-iconic lie—“This was the largest audience to ever witness an inauguration—period”—was delivered with the sweaty anxiety of someone trying to bluff through a lie detector test on live TV. His voice cracked, his eyes darted, and his knuckles whitened on the podium like he was holding onto credibility by a thread. Sarah Huckabee Sanders adopted a stoic wall-of-steel approach. Her eyes narrowed, her arms folded—a classic self-protective gesture—as she fielded questions with a half-smile and an expression that said: “I could not care less.” It wasn't confidence. It was deflection masked as deadpan. Kayleigh McEnany turned the job into a Harvard-polished performance. Her plastic smiles and over-rehearsed hand gestures gave off the polished sheen of a game show host crossed with a Sunday School teacher. Yet beneath the surface was relentless aggression, particularly in her habit of ending briefings mid-question with, “And with that, I’ll leave it there”—like a magician vanishing in a puff of evasion. Stephanie Grisham skipped the performance entirely. She held no press briefings during her entire tenure. That’s not a metaphor. She simply didn’t show up. She once justified it by saying: “I felt like the media was not good to us, so why give them a platform?” Which is like a firefighter refusing to fight fire because it’s “too hot.” And then there’s Karoline Leavitt, the newest inheritor of the Trumpian throne. She channels her boss’s sneer with youthful gusto, waving off journalistic scrutiny with the arrogance of a Twitter troll at a campaign rally. Her body language—tight, fidgety hands and a forward-thrust jaw—exudes aggression over poise, confrontation over clarity. Language that mirrors a master’s voice From day One, their linguistic loyalty was unmistakable. These weren’t spokespeople—they were translators of Trump. The vocabulary was predictable: “Fake news.” “Radical left.” “Witch hunt.” “Tremendous success.” Spicer lied loud. Sanders lied stone-faced. McEnany lied with legalese. Grisham lied by vanishing. Leavitt lies with snark and sarcasm. They weren't delivering facts; they were delivering feelings—Trump’s feelings. Journalists asking factual questions were treated as antagonists, not interlocutors. There was no longer an effort to explain the administration’s decisions; only to defend them, blindly and aggressively. Each press secretary channelled Trump’s grievances like tuning forks vibrating in MAGA frequency. Policy became secondary to personality, and press briefings transformed into ideological theatre—complete with props, binders, and moral grandstanding. A cult of personality on display More than anything, the Trump-era press secretaries were/are emblematic of a government that prized loyalty over truth. These individuals didn’t speak for the presidency. They spoke for Trump—the man, not the office he holds. Rather than serving as intermediaries between the public and the president, they became palace guards, protecting their king from uncomfortable facts. They weren’t trying to sell you on policy—they were trying to convince you that your eyes were lying. Their function wasn’t communication. It was containment. They were expected not just to control the narrative, but to mirror the mood. Angry Trump? Angry press secretary. Vindicated Trump? Triumphant press secretary. Cornered Trump? Defensive, sneering, combative press secretary. And through it all, they contorted themselves—physically and rhetorically—into whatever shape was needed to shield the man behind the curtain. The legacy: A podium of puppets What remains is a blueprint for what not to do. This isn’t just about individual failures. It’s about the institutional rot that occurs when the role of press secretary is weaponised as a propaganda tool. When truth becomes optional and performance becomes policy, the public suffers. From Spicer’s flop-sweat lies to Leavitt’s gleeful contempt, each of these figures proved that under Trump, the White House podium wasn’t a symbol of government transparency. It was a stage for submission, a megaphone for madness, and a place where truth went to die—draped in flags, buzzwords, and bad faith. And with that… we’ll leave it there. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The role of the press secretary, traditionally one of poise, policy, and accountability, became under Trump a mouthpiece of performance—one that demanded absolute loyalty, shameless spin, and, above all, showmanship

Trump press secretaries only toe his line, and the new one is not any different. A series of lies from term 1 and 2

The White House on Thursday (Jun 19) said that Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in the space of a “couple of weeks”. This comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters the seventh day, with both sides engaging in missile and drone attacks. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump said that he will decide whether the United States will join Israel in its military operations against Iran in the next two weeks, the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;“Iran has all that it needs to achieve a nuclear weapon. All they need is a decision from the supreme leader to do that, and it would take a couple of weeks to complete the production of that weapon,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters during a press briefing on Thursday.&nbsp;Reading out a message from the US president, Leavitt said that there had been “a lot of speculation” about whether the US will get “directly involved” in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.&nbsp;“Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” Trump said in the statement.&nbsp;Iran and European diplomats said that talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme will be held in Geneva on Friday. Top officials from Britain, France, Germany, the European Union, along with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, will be present at the discussions.&nbsp;According to a Wall Street Journal report, Trump has approved attack plans but is waiting to see if Iran will give up its nuclear programme. However, in a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “The Wall Street Journal has No Idea what my thoughts are concerning Iran!”&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said that Israel is capable of striking all Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow. He also claimed that Israel had destroyed more than half of Iran’s missile launchers as the fighting continues on the seventh day.

This comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters the seventh day, with both sides engaging in missile and drone attacks.

The White House on Thursday (Jun 19) said that Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in the space of a “couple of weeks”. This comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters the seventh day, with both sides engaging in missile and drone attacks. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump said that he will decide whether the United States will join Israel in its military operations against Iran in the next two weeks, the White House said in a statement. “Iran has all that it needs to achieve a nuclear weapon. All they need is a decision from the supreme leader to do that, and it would take a couple of weeks to complete the production of that weapon,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters during a press briefing on Thursday. Reading out a message from the US president, Leavitt said that there had been “a lot of speculation” about whether the US will get “directly involved” in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. “Based on the fact that there's a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” Trump said in the statement. Iran and European diplomats said that talks on Tehran’s nuclear programme will be held in Geneva on Friday. Top officials from Britain, France, Germany, the European Union, along with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, will be present at the discussions. According to a Wall Street Journal report, Trump has approved attack plans but is waiting to see if Iran will give up its nuclear programme. However, in a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “The Wall Street Journal has No Idea what my thoughts are concerning Iran!” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday said that Israel is capable of striking all Iranian nuclear facilities, including Fordow. He also claimed that Israel had destroyed more than half of Iran’s missile launchers as the fighting continues on the seventh day.

This comes as the conflict between Israel and Iran enters the seventh day, with both sides engaging in missile and drone attacks.

Iran could make nuclear bomb in ‘a couple of weeks’, says White House

Russia has issued a strong warning to the United States not to take military action against Iran. Amid rising speculation that Washington might join Israel’s strikes, Moscow’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said, “We would like to particularly warn Washington against military intervention in the situation.”The warning follows remarks from US President Donald Trump, who said, “I may do it, I may not do it,” about joining the strikes on Iran.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-how-israel-built-nuclear-weapons-and-kept-them-a-secret-for-decades-the-elaborate-deception-that-fooled-the-us-and-world-1750271364381">Israel-Iran war: How Israel built nuclear weapons and kept them a secret for decades? The elaborate deception that fooled the&nbsp;US&nbsp;and&nbsp;world</a>Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also on Wednesday warned the US, saying, “We caution Washington against even speculative, hypothetical options of this kind. It would be a step that would radically destabilise the entire situation.”<h2>Why does Russia care so much about Iran?</h2>Iran is one of Russia’s most important allies in the region. The two countries recently signed a strategic partnership agreement, and their military ties have grown significantly in recent years.Although Putin has not sent military support to Iran following the Israeli air strikes, the Kremlin has taken a firm position in backing Tehran diplomatically.Putin recently confirmed that Iran had “not asked us about this” when asked whether Tehran had requested Russian military aid. He also clarified that their treaty is not a mutual defence pact.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-we-are-capable-of-eliminating-netanyahu-hints-at-eliminating-khamenei-vows-tehran-won-t-obtain-a-nuclear-weapon-1750335711019">'No one is immune': Netanyahu hints at eliminating Khamenei, vows 'Tehran won't obtain a&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapon'</a>Still, Russia sees Iran as a vital strategic partner, both politically and economically, and does not want to see it destabilised.<h2>What is Russia afraid might happen?</h2>Russia is concerned that a US military intervention in Iran could spiral into a much larger regional conflict. Zakharova called such a move “an extremely dangerous step with truly unpredictable negative consequences.”One fear is that any attack could lead to widespread instability across the Middle East, including direct risks to Russian personnel and interests in the region. Russia also worries that a US-led regime change could replace Iran’s current leadership with a government hostile to Moscow.There are additional safety concerns too, especially regarding Russian nuclear experts working at Iranian sites. A US strike could jeopardise their security.<h2>How does US involvement threaten Russia’s influence in the region?</h2>A direct US military role would undermine Russia’s efforts to position itself as a key power broker in the Middle East. Putin has spent years building relationships in the Middle East, balancing ties in a volatile region to boost Russia’s global influence.Russia’s military intervention in Syria in 2015 helped expand its presence and influence. Putin has also tried to maintain dialogue with all sides. Speaking to both Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian in recent days.However, if the US launches strikes and takes the lead, Russia’s image as a neutral mediator and regional player could suffer.<h2>Is Putin offering to mediate?</h2>Putin has tried to present himself as a potential peacemaker in the conflict. He spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and both leaders “strongly condemn Israel’s actions,” according to the Kremlin.Putin also made mediation offers to both Iran and Israel, hoping to use Russia’s historical ties with both nations to calm tensions.But Western leaders, including President Trump and France’s Emmanuel Macron, have dismissed Putin’s efforts. Trump told reporters, “He actually offered to help mediate, I said, ‘do me a favour, mediate your own.’”For now, Russia is keeping its military support out of the conflict but remains active diplomatically. Kremlin officials have said they would be willing to send humanitarian aid to Iran, if requested.

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also on Wednesday warned US, saying, “We caution Washington against even speculative, hypothetical options of this kind. It would be a step that would radically destabilize the entire situation.”

Russia has issued a strong warning to the United States not to take military action against Iran. Amid rising speculation that Washington might join Israel’s strikes, Moscow’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said, “We would like to particularly warn Washington against military intervention in the situation.” The warning follows remarks from US President Donald Trump, who said, “I may do it, I may not do it,” about joining the strikes on Iran. Also read: Israel-Iran war: How Israel built nuclear weapons and kept them a secret for decades? The elaborate deception that fooled the US and world Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also on Wednesday warned the US, saying, “We caution Washington against even speculative, hypothetical options of this kind. It would be a step that would radically destabilise the entire situation.” Why does Russia care so much about Iran? Iran is one of Russia’s most important allies in the region. The two countries recently signed a strategic partnership agreement, and their military ties have grown significantly in recent years. Although Putin has not sent military support to Iran following the Israeli air strikes, the Kremlin has taken a firm position in backing Tehran diplomatically. Putin recently confirmed that Iran had “not asked us about this” when asked whether Tehran had requested Russian military aid. He also clarified that their treaty is not a mutual defence pact. Also read: 'No one is immune': Netanyahu hints at eliminating Khamenei, vows 'Tehran won't obtain a nuclear weapon' Still, Russia sees Iran as a vital strategic partner, both politically and economically, and does not want to see it destabilised. What is Russia afraid might happen? Russia is concerned that a US military intervention in Iran could spiral into a much larger regional conflict. Zakharova called such a move “an extremely dangerous step with truly unpredictable negative consequences.” One fear is that any attack could lead to widespread instability across the Middle East, including direct risks to Russian personnel and interests in the region. Russia also worries that a US-led regime change could replace Iran’s current leadership with a government hostile to Moscow. There are additional safety concerns too, especially regarding Russian nuclear experts working at Iranian sites. A US strike could jeopardise their security. How does US involvement threaten Russia’s influence in the region? A direct US military role would undermine Russia’s efforts to position itself as a key power broker in the Middle East. Putin has spent years building relationships in the Middle East, balancing ties in a volatile region to boost Russia’s global influence. Russia’s military intervention in Syria in 2015 helped expand its presence and influence. Putin has also tried to maintain dialogue with all sides. Speaking to both Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian in recent days. However, if the US launches strikes and takes the lead, Russia’s image as a neutral mediator and regional player could suffer. Is Putin offering to mediate? Putin has tried to present himself as a potential peacemaker in the conflict. He spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and both leaders “strongly condemn Israel’s actions,” according to the Kremlin. Putin also made mediation offers to both Iran and Israel, hoping to use Russia’s historical ties with both nations to calm tensions. But Western leaders, including President Trump and France’s Emmanuel Macron, have dismissed Putin’s efforts. Trump told reporters, “He actually offered to help mediate, I said, ‘do me a favour, mediate your own.’” For now, Russia is keeping its military support out of the conflict but remains active diplomatically. Kremlin officials have said they would be willing to send humanitarian aid to Iran, if requested.

Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also on Wednesday warned US, saying, “We caution Washington against even speculative, hypothetical options of this kind. It would be a step that would radically destabilise the entire situation.”

Israel-Iran war: Russia warns US against 'military action' in Iran - Why Putin doesn't want Trump to step in

Pakistan is often called a failed state. At other points, it has been called a rogue state or client state. That, of course, refers not to the country in general but to its army-centred ruling elite, which often sidesteps or steamrolls the interests of ordinary citizens to uphold its power base and worldview. Military coups and martial laws at various times only testify to this fact. The question to ask is: how is it that despite all the criticism and flak it faces, the military apparatus that runs the Pakistani state, sometimes in letter and almost always in spirit, has the right of way both at home and, as it turns out, abroad?&nbsp;The answer might lie in a simple insight: Pakistan’s estate is a vital asset–which is to say that what matters seems to be more about real estate than democracy, governance, nationhood or constitution that helps an elite stay firmly in the saddle despite hard evidence that Islamabad overlooks and/or nurtures terror groups or Most-Wanted figures such as Lashkar -e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Muhammad and its leaders or the infamous Osama Bin Laden who was killed next to the Abbottabad cantonment. &nbsp;After US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan’s army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir merely weeks after India’s May 7 Operation Sindoor that targeted Pakistan-based terror camps (followed by army-blessed funerals for some of those killed in the operation), it is time to think deep to understand what is really going on.Tongue firmly in cheek, and perhaps with bull’s eye precision, we can say that Pakistan’s special position is more a matter of diplomatic geography than political history. Never mind the Internet memes that mock the Trump-Munir meeting at a “private” luncheon. &nbsp;“Location, location, location,” is a popular phrase in the real estate business that stresses on the importance of geographical coordinates in determining the value of a property. Though the statement is often attributed to British real estate tycoon Harold Samuel, it has been traced back to a classified ad in the Chicago Tribune newspaper in 1926.&nbsp;Pakistan’s location has been a key asset that has saved it from many a diplomatic woe—and one might add, from the way its uniformed rulers manage it.&nbsp;You can say that thrice, like in the old saying. This is because Pakistan is strategically located next to Afghanistan, Iran and China, all of which have influenced diplomatic positions in Washington and Moscow at various points in time.&nbsp;When invading Russian soldiers marched into Afghanistan in 1979 as part of the then Soviet Union’s plan to install a puppet regime, it was Pakistan that helped the US counter it by hosting the “Mujahideen” or liberation groups towards the fag end of the Cold War.&nbsp;Bin Laden’s ideas of forming a global jihadist movement can be traced back to his presence in Pakistan. It is ironic that not only the rise of his Al Qaeda group that carried out the 9/11 attacks in New York in 2001, but also the Taliban that currently rules Afghanistan and bitterly opposes the US, rose from the remnants of the Mujahideen. US foreign policy has more often than not been guided by short-term expediency than long-term principles, and that might explain how the best of India’s diplomatic efforts and evidence do little to sway the State Department.&nbsp;As Trump woos Munir, who was appointed Field Marshal after Operation Sindoor, what we need to remember is that under the Republicans in general and the current White House incumbent in particular, the US is less a guardian angel of democracy or civilised diplomacy and more a power that looks after its strategic interests and trading might. It is generously helped by an influential Jewish lobby that has suddenly shifted America’s focus away from trade talks with China towards a combative engagement involving Israel and Iran. India’s Operation Sindoor had nothing to do with Iran, which has emerged as some kind of a benign opportunity for Pakistan to engage with the US.&nbsp;After the din ebbs on the Israel-Iran conflict, China will remain exactly where it is on the world map, helping Islamabad play a geopolitical card vis-à-vis the US. &nbsp;It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any. Opposition leader and former prime minister Imran Khan has been in jail for two years after an arrest led by the paramilitary inside the premises of the Islamabad High Court in a case involving his confrontation with the country’s army. &nbsp;Barely a week after the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that led to Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan government named Asim Malik, a serving military general, as its National Security Adviser. A former head of the spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), he is no ordinary general. His appointment to the NSA’s job, over the head of civilian officials, shows who is in command in Pakistan.It might be fair to describe some of the events and non-events following Operation Sindoor as a setback for Indian diplomacy but it pays to remember that not all of it can be linked to what New Delhi does or does not do. The sheer location of Pakistan and the way Islamabad’s military lords use it, involves a grim lesson on the importance of location.&nbsp; &nbsp;The “geo” tag in geopolitics exists for a reason.

It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any.

Pakistan is often called a failed state. At other points, it has been called a rogue state or client state. That, of course, refers not to the country in general but to its army-centred ruling elite, which often sidesteps or steamrolls the interests of ordinary citizens to uphold its power base and worldview. Military coups and martial laws at various times only testify to this fact. The question to ask is: how is it that despite all the criticism and flak it faces, the military apparatus that runs the Pakistani state, sometimes in letter and almost always in spirit, has the right of way both at home and, as it turns out, abroad? The answer might lie in a simple insight: Pakistan’s estate is a vital asset–which is to say that what matters seems to be more about real estate than democracy, governance, nationhood or constitution that helps an elite stay firmly in the saddle despite hard evidence that Islamabad overlooks and/or nurtures terror groups or Most-Wanted figures such as Lashkar -e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Muhammad and its leaders or the infamous Osama Bin Laden who was killed next to the Abbottabad cantonment. After US President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan’s army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir merely weeks after India’s May 7 Operation Sindoor that targeted Pakistan-based terror camps (followed by army-blessed funerals for some of those killed in the operation), it is time to think deep to understand what is really going on. Tongue firmly in cheek, and perhaps with bull’s eye precision, we can say that Pakistan’s special position is more a matter of diplomatic geography than political history. Never mind the Internet memes that mock the Trump-Munir meeting at a “private” luncheon. “Location, location, location,” is a popular phrase in the real estate business that stresses on the importance of geographical coordinates in determining the value of a property. Though the statement is often attributed to British real estate tycoon Harold Samuel, it has been traced back to a classified ad in the Chicago Tribune newspaper in 1926. Pakistan’s location has been a key asset that has saved it from many a diplomatic woe—and one might add, from the way its uniformed rulers manage it. You can say that thrice, like in the old saying. This is because Pakistan is strategically located next to Afghanistan, Iran and China, all of which have influenced diplomatic positions in Washington and Moscow at various points in time. When invading Russian soldiers marched into Afghanistan in 1979 as part of the then Soviet Union’s plan to install a puppet regime, it was Pakistan that helped the US counter it by hosting the “Mujahideen” or liberation groups towards the fag end of the Cold War. Bin Laden’s ideas of forming a global jihadist movement can be traced back to his presence in Pakistan. It is ironic that not only the rise of his Al Qaeda group that carried out the 9/11 attacks in New York in 2001, but also the Taliban that currently rules Afghanistan and bitterly opposes the US, rose from the remnants of the Mujahideen. US foreign policy has more often than not been guided by short-term expediency than long-term principles, and that might explain how the best of India’s diplomatic efforts and evidence do little to sway the State Department. As Trump woos Munir, who was appointed Field Marshal after Operation Sindoor, what we need to remember is that under the Republicans in general and the current White House incumbent in particular, the US is less a guardian angel of democracy or civilised diplomacy and more a power that looks after its strategic interests and trading might. It is generously helped by an influential Jewish lobby that has suddenly shifted America’s focus away from trade talks with China towards a combative engagement involving Israel and Iran. India’s Operation Sindoor had nothing to do with Iran, which has emerged as some kind of a benign opportunity for Pakistan to engage with the US. After the din ebbs on the Israel-Iran conflict, China will remain exactly where it is on the world map, helping Islamabad play a geopolitical card vis-à-vis the US. It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any. Opposition leader and former prime minister Imran Khan has been in jail for two years after an arrest led by the paramilitary inside the premises of the Islamabad High Court in a case involving his confrontation with the country’s army. Barely a week after the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that led to Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan government named Asim Malik, a serving military general, as its National Security Adviser. A former head of the spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), he is no ordinary general. His appointment to the NSA’s job, over the head of civilian officials, shows who is in command in Pakistan. It might be fair to describe some of the events and non-events following Operation Sindoor as a setback for Indian diplomacy but it pays to remember that not all of it can be linked to what New Delhi does or does not do. The sheer location of Pakistan and the way Islamabad’s military lords use it, involves a grim lesson on the importance of location. The “geo” tag in geopolitics exists for a reason.

It is time for a reminder that for all practical purposes, Munir is now in control of the elected civilian government. The aftermath of Operation Sindoor, like that of the Kargil War in 1999, gives the army an upper hand. Not that it needed any.

The Location Syndrome: As Trump woos Munir, Pakistan’s diplomatic geography matters more than its political history

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “No one is immune,” and all the options are open, hinting that Israel might plan to target Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Netanyahu made the remarks on Thursday (June 19) from Soroka Hospital in southern Israel after an Iranian missile hit it.“We are capable of eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapon,” Netanyahu said.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-can-the-us-really-destroy-iran-s-fordow-nuclear-site-with-bunker-buster-bomb-trump-isn-t-sure-1750337611989">Israel-Iran war: Can US really destroy Iran’s Fordow nuclear site with 'bunker buster bomb'? Trump isn’t sure</a>Netanyahu says that US involvement in the war “is a decision for President Trump.”“He will do what is good for America, and I will do what’s good for Israel,” adding that the US president “knows the game.”He added, “At the end of this operation, there will be no nuclear threat on Israel, and there won’t be a ballistic threat.”Dozens of people were injured in the strike on the Soroka Medical Centre, which Iran said targeted a command-and-control centre nearby.<h2>Katz says Khamenei cannot be allowed to ‘continue to exist’</h2>Earlier, Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, said Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei cannot be allowed to “continue to exist.”Speaking to reporters, Katz compared Khamenei to the German dictator Adolf Hitler.“A dictator like Khamenei, who’s heading a state like Iran, who set himself the goal of destroying the state of Israel… he can no longer continue to exist,” Katz said.“Khamenei is the modern Hitler,” he added.<h2>Israel-Iran war enters seventh day</h2>Hostilities between Israel and Iran entered their seventh day on Thursday.The latest round of hostilities began after a series of Israeli air raids on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure last week. Those initial strikes led to retaliatory action from Iran and a sharp increase in attacks across both sides.According to official figures, over 200 people have died in Iran and 24 in Israel since the fighting began. The actual numbers may be higher, as the situation continues to develop rapidly.

“We are capable of eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a nuclear weapon,” Netanyahu said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “No one is immune,” and all the options are open, hinting that Israel might plan to target Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Netanyahu made the remarks on Thursday (June 19) from Soroka Hospital in southern Israel after an Iranian missile hit it. “We are capable of eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a nuclear weapon,” Netanyahu said. Also read: Israel-Iran war: Can US really destroy Iran’s Fordow nuclear site with 'bunker buster bomb'? Trump isn’t sure Netanyahu says that US involvement in the war “is a decision for President Trump.” “He will do what is good for America, and I will do what’s good for Israel,” adding that the US president “knows the game.” He added, “At the end of this operation, there will be no nuclear threat on Israel, and there won’t be a ballistic threat.” Dozens of people were injured in the strike on the Soroka Medical Centre, which Iran said targeted a command-and-control centre nearby. Katz says Khamenei cannot be allowed to ‘continue to exist’ Earlier, Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, said Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei cannot be allowed to “continue to exist.” Speaking to reporters, Katz compared Khamenei to the German dictator Adolf Hitler. “A dictator like Khamenei, who’s heading a state like Iran, who set himself the goal of destroying the state of Israel… he can no longer continue to exist,” Katz said. “Khamenei is the modern Hitler,” he added. Israel-Iran war enters seventh day Hostilities between Israel and Iran entered their seventh day on Thursday. The latest round of hostilities began after a series of Israeli air raids on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure last week. Those initial strikes led to retaliatory action from Iran and a sharp increase in attacks across both sides. According to official figures, over 200 people have died in Iran and 24 in Israel since the fighting began. The actual numbers may be higher, as the situation continues to develop rapidly.

“We are capable of eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;weapon,” Netanyahu said.

'No one is immune': Netanyahu hints at eliminating Khamenei, vows 'Tehran won't obtain a nuclear weapon'

First, a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and then US President Donald Trump scheduled lunch with the Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir to the White House. This meeting comes after the role of mediation that Trump assumed when India and Pakistan were embroiled in cross-border fighting earlier in May. A conflict that erupted at the dastardly terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives in Kashmir. In retaliation and prolonged inaction against terrorism, New Delhi launched Operation Sindoor to target terror outfits in Pakistan and PoK. While speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, "The reason I had him (Asim Munir) here was to thank him for not going into war and ending the war.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">On Munir meet, US President Donald Trump says Pakistan knows Iran &#39;very well better than most..&#39; &amp; &#39;agreed with me&#39;. Adds, during the meeting, he thanked Munir &#39;for not going into the war (with India)..&#39; &amp; &#39;nuclear powers&#39; decided &#39;not to go into war&#39; <a href="https://t.co/b5SV4QD2f1">pic.twitter.com/b5SV4QD2f1</a>&mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1935527908514349561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

He continued, “They were both here, I was with Modi a few weeks ago. They are very smart people and decided not to keep going with that war. That could have been a nuclear one, as those are two nuclear powers… big big nuclear powers. They decided, and I was honoured to meet him." “As you know, PM Modi just left (for India), little while ago. We are working for a trade deal with India, Pakistan.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-two-very-smart-people-decided-trump-for-first-time-steps-aside-from-taking-credit-of-indo-pak-ceasefire-1750315299043">'Two very smart people decided': Trump for first time steps aside from taking credit of Indo-Pak ceasefire</a> Talking about the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, he added, “They (Pakistan) know both Iran and Israel, maybe they know Iran better.” This statement probably comes as a reflection of thoughts pointing to the proximity as both Iran and Pakistan share an international border. On Wednesday (June 18), Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in a video statement, mentioned a telephonic exchange between PM Modi and Trump, where the latter was briefed on Operation Sindoor. The leaders were scheduled to meet on the sidelines of the G7, as Trump returned to US early and the Indian PM had scheduled engagements, they resorted to a phone call that lasted for approximately 35 minutes.&nbsp;

First, a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and then US President Donald Trump scheduled lunch with the Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir to the White House. 

First, a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and then US President Donald Trump scheduled lunch with the Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir to the White House. This meeting comes after the role of mediation that Trump assumed when India and Pakistan were embroiled in cross-border fighting earlier in May. A conflict that erupted at the dastardly terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives in Kashmir. In retaliation and prolonged inaction against terrorism, New Delhi launched Operation Sindoor to target terror outfits in Pakistan and PoK. While speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, "The reason I had him (Asim Munir) here was to thank him for not going into war and ending the war.”

First, a telephonic conversation with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and then US President Donald Trump scheduled lunch with the Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir to the White House.&nbsp;

After phone call with PM Modi, Trump reveals reason for inviting Pak Field Marshal Asim Munir to White House

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Jun 18) thanked US President Donald Trump for “standing by our side.” This comes as Israel waits for Trump’s decision on whether the United States will join Israel’s military operations against Iran.&nbsp;“We are in continuous communication, including last night—we had a very warm conversation,” Netanyahu said in his daily video statement.&nbsp;Netanyahu said that Israel is suffering “many losses, painful losses.”&nbsp;“But we see that the home front is strong, the people are steadfast, and Israel is stronger than ever,” he said. He highlighted that “intense fighting continues in the Gaza Strip.”&nbsp;“We will continue until we bring everyone home and until Hamas is fully defeated,” the Israeli prime minister said.&nbsp;<h2>Trump’s threats to Iran</h2>&nbsp;Trump has consistently shown support for Israel, even threatening Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;On Wednesday, the US President said that the fall of Iran’s leadership ‘could happen’. He added that he has not made the decision yet whether the United States would join Israel in military actions to bomb Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Facility.&nbsp;When asked whether Washington is planning for such a scenario, Trump said that “we have a plan for everything.” He added that he will be meeting with his advisers in the Situation Room in an hour.&nbsp;As the tensions with Iran escalate, Khamenei on Wednesday said that Iran will not surrender, warning that “any US strike will have serious, irreparable consequences.”&nbsp;Hours later, Trump claimed that the Islamic Republic wants to “negotiate.” However, Iran’s Mission to the UN said that no Iranian official has ever asked to grovel at the gates of the White House, calling Trump’s claims “despicable lies.”&nbsp;Speaking to reporters at a new flag pole installation event in the White House, Trump also hinted that he might join Israel in striking Iran, or might not do it, adding that nobody knows what he’s going to do.&nbsp;When asked about joining Israeli strikes on Iran in the air, the US president said, “I may do it, I may not do it.”&nbsp;“I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do,” Trump told reporters as he supervised the installation of a new flagpole on the White House South Lawn.

“We will continue until we bring everyone home and until Hamas is fully defeated,” the Israeli prime minister said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Jun 18) thanked US President Donald Trump for “standing by our side.” This comes as Israel waits for Trump’s decision on whether the United States will join Israel’s military operations against Iran. “We are in continuous communication, including last night—we had a very warm conversation,” Netanyahu said in his daily video statement. Netanyahu said that Israel is suffering “many losses, painful losses.” “But we see that the home front is strong, the people are steadfast, and Israel is stronger than ever,” he said. He highlighted that “intense fighting continues in the Gaza Strip.” “We will continue until we bring everyone home and until Hamas is fully defeated,” the Israeli prime minister said. Trump’s threats to Iran Trump has consistently shown support for Israel, even threatening Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. On Wednesday, the US President said that the fall of Iran’s leadership ‘could happen’. He added that he has not made the decision yet whether the United States would join Israel in military actions to bomb Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Facility. When asked whether Washington is planning for such a scenario, Trump said that “we have a plan for everything.” He added that he will be meeting with his advisers in the Situation Room in an hour. As the tensions with Iran escalate, Khamenei on Wednesday said that Iran will not surrender, warning that “any US strike will have serious, irreparable consequences.” Hours later, Trump claimed that the Islamic Republic wants to “negotiate.” However, Iran’s Mission to the UN said that no Iranian official has ever asked to grovel at the gates of the White House, calling Trump’s claims “despicable lies.” Speaking to reporters at a new flag pole installation event in the White House, Trump also hinted that he might join Israel in striking Iran, or might not do it, adding that nobody knows what he’s going to do. When asked about joining Israeli strikes on Iran in the air, the US president said, “I may do it, I may not do it.” “I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do,” Trump told reporters as he supervised the installation of a new flagpole on the White House South Lawn.

“We will continue until we bring everyone home and until Hamas is fully defeated,” the Israeli prime minister said.

For ‘standing by our side’: Netanyahu thanks Trump, says ‘Israel is stronger than ever’

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that the fall of Iran’s leadership ‘could happen’. He added that he has not made the decision yet whether the United States would join Israel in military actions to bomb Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Facility.&nbsp;“Sure, anything could happen, right?” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office.&nbsp;When asked whether Washington is planning for such a scenario, Trump said that “we have a plan for everything.” The US President added that he will be meeting with his advisers in the Situation Room in an hour.&nbsp;The meeting will be the second on the conflict in the Middle East since Trump returned from the G7 Summit in Canada a day early on Tuesday.&nbsp;Trump reiterated his stance that Tehran should have accepted a US proposal for a nuclear deal before the 60-day deadline given by him.&nbsp;As the tensions with Iran escalate, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Wednesday in an address to the nation, said that Iran will not surrender, warning that “any US strike will have serious, irreparable consequences.”&nbsp;Hours later, Trump claimed that the Islamic Republic wants to “negotiate.” However, Iran’s Mission to the UN said that no Iranian official has ever asked to grovel at the gates of the White House, calling Trump’s claims “despicable lies.”&nbsp;“No Iranian official has ever asked to grovel at the gates of the White House,” the post read.&nbsp;<h2>Trump wants ‘total victory’, not a ceasefire</h2>&nbsp;Trump said that Iran was “a few weeks away” from having a nuclear weapon before Israel launched its military operations against the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;“I’m not looking to fight, but if it’s a choice between fighting and having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do. Maybe we won’t have to fight,” Trump said. “Maybe it will end very quickly.”&nbsp;Trump added that he now wants “total victory,” not a ceasefire, reported the Times of Israel.&nbsp;“You know what the victory is? No nuclear weapon,” he said. &nbsp;<h2>‘I may do it, I may not do it’</h2>&nbsp;Speaking to reporters at a new flag pole installation event in the White House, Trump also hinted that he might join Israel in striking Iran, or might not do it, adding that nobody knows what he’s going to do.&nbsp;When asked about joining Israeli strikes on Iran in the air, the US president said, “I may do it, I may not do it.”&nbsp;“I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do,” Trump told reporters as he supervised the installation of a new flagpole on the White House South Lawn.

Trump reiterated his stance that Tehran should have accepted a US proposal for a nuclear deal before the 60-day deadline given by him.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that the fall of Iran’s leadership ‘could happen’. He added that he has not made the decision yet whether the United States would join Israel in military actions to bomb Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Facility. “Sure, anything could happen, right?” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. When asked whether Washington is planning for such a scenario, Trump said that “we have a plan for everything.” The US President added that he will be meeting with his advisers in the Situation Room in an hour. The meeting will be the second on the conflict in the Middle East since Trump returned from the G7 Summit in Canada a day early on Tuesday. Trump reiterated his stance that Tehran should have accepted a US proposal for a nuclear deal before the 60-day deadline given by him. As the tensions with Iran escalate, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Wednesday in an address to the nation, said that Iran will not surrender, warning that “any US strike will have serious, irreparable consequences.” Hours later, Trump claimed that the Islamic Republic wants to “negotiate.” However, Iran’s Mission to the UN said that no Iranian official has ever asked to grovel at the gates of the White House, calling Trump’s claims “despicable lies.” “No Iranian official has ever asked to grovel at the gates of the White House,” the post read. Trump wants ‘total victory’, not a ceasefire Trump said that Iran was “a few weeks away” from having a nuclear weapon before Israel launched its military operations against the Islamic Republic. “I’m not looking to fight, but if it’s a choice between fighting and having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do. Maybe we won’t have to fight,” Trump said. “Maybe it will end very quickly.” Trump added that he now wants “total victory,” not a ceasefire, reported the Times of Israel. “You know what the victory is? No nuclear weapon,” he said. ‘I may do it, I may not do it’ Speaking to reporters at a new flag pole installation event in the White House, Trump also hinted that he might join Israel in striking Iran, or might not do it, adding that nobody knows what he’s going to do. When asked about joining Israeli strikes on Iran in the air, the US president said, “I may do it, I may not do it.” “I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do,” Trump told reporters as he supervised the installation of a new flagpole on the White House South Lawn.

Trump reiterated his stance that Tehran should have accepted a US proposal for a nuclear deal before the 60-day deadline given by him.

‘Anything could happen’: Trump says fall of Iran’s regime is possible amid speculation of US joining Israel in conflict

US President Donald Trump, while speaking to reporters during a flag pole event at the White House on Wednesday (Jun 18) reiterated his claim of stopping military conflict between India and Pakistan and praised both Pakistan's Asim Munir and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Well, I stopped the war…. I love Pakistan. I think Modi is a fantastic man. I spoke to him last night. We're going to make a trade deal with Modi of India. But I stopped the war between Pakistan and India,” Trump said.&nbsp;On being asked about his meeting with Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir for lunch at White House, US President Trump said, "This man (Asim Munir) was extremely influential in stopping war from the Pakistani side and PM Modi from the Indian side. Both are nuclear countries; they got to stop. I stopped a war between two major nuclear nations..." Going on a rant and reiterating that he never gets credit, Trump added, "I don't think I had one story. Did I have one story written…You know what the people know. Anybody write that story about the war…Did you write…” he asked reporters.&nbsp;Trump's remarks came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the US president about his mediation claims, stating clearly that the hostilities between India and Pakistan was stopped after DGMOs of both the nations spoke.<h2>PM Modi and Trump phone call</h2>Earlier today, setting the record straight, PM Modi in a phone call with US President Trump told him that India had never accepted any mediation role between India and Pakistan and there was no discussion on a US-India trade deal during the hostilities. PM Modi also declined Trump's invite for a stop-over visit to Washington DC on his way back from the G7 Summit in Canada, citing his scheduled visit to Croatia on June 18.<h2>PM Modi's ‘double standards’ remark at G7 Summit</h2>In a jibe of sorts, PM Modi while addressing the G7 Outreach Session called out the “double standards” of countries on the issue of terrorism. He said, “There should be no place for double standards on terrorism,” urging the global community to adopt a consistent and firm stance against terror networks. “For global peace and prosperity, our thought and policy must be clear — if any country supports terrorism, it will have to pay the price for it. On one hand, we are quick to impose all kinds of sanctions based on our own preferences. On the other hand, countries that openly support terrorism are rewarded,” PM Modi added.

Despite PM Modi's phone call, Trump repeats his claims about stopping India, Pakistan hostilities

US President Donald Trump, while speaking to reporters during a flag pole event at the White House on Wednesday (Jun 18) reiterated his claim of stopping military conflict between India and Pakistan and praised both Pakistan's Asim Munir and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Well, I stopped the war…. I love Pakistan. I think Modi is a fantastic man. I spoke to him last night. We're going to make a trade deal with Modi of India. But I stopped the war between Pakistan and India,” Trump said. On being asked about his meeting with Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir for lunch at White House, US President Trump said, "This man (Asim Munir) was extremely influential in stopping war from the Pakistani side and PM Modi from the Indian side. Both are nuclear countries; they got to stop. I stopped a war between two major nuclear nations..." Going on a rant and reiterating that he never gets credit, Trump added, "I don't think I had one story. Did I have one story written…You know what the people know. Anybody write that story about the war…Did you write…” he asked reporters. Trump's remarks came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the US president about his mediation claims, stating clearly that the hostilities between India and Pakistan was stopped after DGMOs of both the nations spoke. PM Modi and Trump phone call Earlier today, setting the record straight, PM Modi in a phone call with US President Trump told him that India had never accepted any mediation role between India and Pakistan and there was no discussion on a US-India trade deal during the hostilities. PM Modi also declined Trump's invite for a stop-over visit to Washington DC on his way back from the G7 Summit in Canada, citing his scheduled visit to Croatia on June 18. PM Modi's ‘double standards’ remark at G7 Summit In a jibe of sorts, PM Modi while addressing the G7 Outreach Session called out the “double standards” of countries on the issue of terrorism. He said, “There should be no place for double standards on terrorism,” urging the global community to adopt a consistent and firm stance against terror networks. “For global peace and prosperity, our thought and policy must be clear — if any country supports terrorism, it will have to pay the price for it. On one hand, we are quick to impose all kinds of sanctions based on our own preferences. On the other hand, countries that openly support terrorism are rewarded,” PM Modi added.

Despite PM Modi's phone call, Trump repeats his claims about stopping India, Pakistan hostilities

‘I love Pakistan...Modi a fantastic man’: Trump claims stopping India-Pak conflict when asked about lunch with Asim Munir, then praises Pak army chief

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

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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

Oil prices are rising sharply, and global markets are edging into risk-off mode as the Iran–Israel conflict shows no signs of slowing, entering its sixth day on Wednesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;The geopolitical crisis, centred near the Strait of Hormuz, is reviving fears of a global energy shock, even as central banks weigh the fallout on inflation and growth.&nbsp;Brent crude futures rose 19 cents to $76.64 a barrel in early trading, while US West Texas Intermediate climbed 23 cents to $75.07. That followed a 4 per cent spike in prices on Tuesday amid mounting concerns that the Middle East conflict could disrupt oil supplies.<h2>Strait of Hormuz back in focus</h2>Much of the market anxiety revolves around the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow chokepoint through which nearly 20 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil passes. According to Reuters, two tankers collided and caught fire near the strait on Tuesday, raising red flags about safety in the region.&nbsp;The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations also warned of “electronic interference” affecting ship navigation systems in the area, a possible sign of growing cyber-warfare threats tied to the conflict.&nbsp;Iran, the third-largest producer in OPEC, pumps around 3.3 million barrels per day. Should the fighting escalate, or sanctions intensify, traders expect disruptions to Iranian output though other OPEC members may struggle to compensate using spare capacity.<h2>Trump ups the ante</h2>On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and sent additional fighter jets to the region, according to US officials quoted by Reuters. The US military buildup comes as part of an effort to deter further escalation, though markets fear it may have the opposite effect.&nbsp;Trump’s early departure from the Group of Seven summit in Canada only deepened investor unease. While there were hopes of progress on global trade talks, those evaporated as Trump returned to Washington citing Iran’s provocations.&nbsp;“The market was anxious to hopefully hear updates on trade agreements out of the G7 and the news of Trump leaving early was disappointing,” Eric Sterner of Apollon Wealth Management told Reuters.<h2>Wall Street wobbles</h2>The risk-off sentiment dragged down US stocks on Tuesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.70 per cent, the S&amp;P 500 slipped 0.84 per cent, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq fell 0.91 per cent.&nbsp;Meanwhile, oil continued its upward climb, with Brent settling 4.52 per cent higher at $76.54 per barrel and US crude jumping 4.46 per cent to close at $74.97.&nbsp;The conflict is also fuelling demand for safe-haven assets. Yields on 10-year US Treasuries fell to 4.389 per cent, down 6.5 basis points from Monday, a sign of growing investor caution.&nbsp;The VIX volatility index, often called Wall Street’s “fear gauge,” rose to a four-week high of 21.6, though still far below pandemic or financial crisis peaks. Analysts said the current spike reflects concern but not full-scale panic yet.&nbsp;“This is like Stage 1 of moving towards a little bit of volatility,” said Matt Thompson of Little Harbor Advisors. “The VIX marketplace thinks the conflict is going to be contained.”<h2>Will the Fed change course?</h2>All eyes now turn to the US Federal Reserve, which is expected to keep its benchmark rate steady at 4.25–4.50 per cent when it concludes its policy meeting on Wednesday.&nbsp;However, market analysts including IG’s Tony Sycamore suggest the Iran–Israel war could prompt the Fed to consider an earlier-than-expected rate cut. “The situation in the Middle East could become a catalyst for the Fed to sound more dovish, as it did follow the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack,” Sycamore told Reuters.&nbsp;Lower rates generally boost oil demand by stimulating growth. But higher energy costs can also stoke inflation, complicating the Fed’s policy response.&nbsp;“Jerome Powell is going to continue to express that they are focused on data at this point,” said Matt Rubin of Cary Street Partners. “And that data does not warrant a cut.”<h2>Broader global impact</h2>The ripple effect is being felt across Europe too, where the STOXX 600 index closed at a three-week low on Tuesday. Investors are also bracing for interest rate decisions from the Bank of England and the Swiss National Bank later this week.&nbsp;In Asia, the Bank of Japan held rates steady at 0.5 per cent, its highest level since 2007, reflecting the growing uncertainty amid global inflation risks and weak domestic demand.&nbsp;Despite the conflict, Qatar said operations at the world’s largest gas field remain unaffected, even as Iran suspended some output after Israeli air strikes.&nbsp;The Iran–Israel war is redrawing the global economic map, with oil markets, central banks, and investors caught in its crosshairs.&nbsp;The longer it lasts, the deeper its impact on inflation, policy, and global growth.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, oil spikes and Wall Street stumbles as investors brace for inflation risks, Fed moves, and global economic fallout.

Oil prices are rising sharply, and global markets are edging into risk-off mode as the Iran–Israel conflict shows no signs of slowing, entering its sixth day on Wednesday. The geopolitical crisis, centred near the Strait of Hormuz, is reviving fears of a global energy shock, even as central banks weigh the fallout on inflation and growth. Brent crude futures rose 19 cents to $76.64 a barrel in early trading, while US West Texas Intermediate climbed 23 cents to $75.07. That followed a 4 per cent spike in prices on Tuesday amid mounting concerns that the Middle East conflict could disrupt oil supplies. Strait of Hormuz back in focus Much of the market anxiety revolves around the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow chokepoint through which nearly 20 per cent of the world’s seaborne oil passes. According to Reuters, two tankers collided and caught fire near the strait on Tuesday, raising red flags about safety in the region. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations also warned of “electronic interference” affecting ship navigation systems in the area, a possible sign of growing cyber-warfare threats tied to the conflict. Iran, the third-largest producer in OPEC, pumps around 3.3 million barrels per day. Should the fighting escalate, or sanctions intensify, traders expect disruptions to Iranian output though other OPEC members may struggle to compensate using spare capacity. Trump ups the ante On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and sent additional fighter jets to the region, according to US officials quoted by Reuters. The US military buildup comes as part of an effort to deter further escalation, though markets fear it may have the opposite effect. Trump’s early departure from the Group of Seven summit in Canada only deepened investor unease. While there were hopes of progress on global trade talks, those evaporated as Trump returned to Washington citing Iran’s provocations. “The market was anxious to hopefully hear updates on trade agreements out of the G7 and the news of Trump leaving early was disappointing,” Eric Sterner of Apollon Wealth Management told Reuters. Wall Street wobbles The risk-off sentiment dragged down US stocks on Tuesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 0.70 per cent, the S&P 500 slipped 0.84 per cent, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq fell 0.91 per cent. Meanwhile, oil continued its upward climb, with Brent settling 4.52 per cent higher at $76.54 per barrel and US crude jumping 4.46 per cent to close at $74.97. The conflict is also fuelling demand for safe-haven assets. Yields on 10-year US Treasuries fell to 4.389 per cent, down 6.5 basis points from Monday, a sign of growing investor caution. The VIX volatility index, often called Wall Street’s “fear gauge,” rose to a four-week high of 21.6, though still far below pandemic or financial crisis peaks. Analysts said the current spike reflects concern but not full-scale panic yet. “This is like Stage 1 of moving towards a little bit of volatility,” said Matt Thompson of Little Harbor Advisors. “The VIX marketplace thinks the conflict is going to be contained.” Will the Fed change course? All eyes now turn to the US Federal Reserve, which is expected to keep its benchmark rate steady at 4.25–4.50 per cent when it concludes its policy meeting on Wednesday. However, market analysts including IG’s Tony Sycamore suggest the Iran–Israel war could prompt the Fed to consider an earlier-than-expected rate cut. “The situation in the Middle East could become a catalyst for the Fed to sound more dovish, as it did follow the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack,” Sycamore told Reuters. Lower rates generally boost oil demand by stimulating growth. But higher energy costs can also stoke inflation, complicating the Fed’s policy response. “Jerome Powell is going to continue to express that they are focused on data at this point,” said Matt Rubin of Cary Street Partners. “And that data does not warrant a cut.” Broader global impact The ripple effect is being felt across Europe too, where the STOXX 600 index closed at a three-week low on Tuesday. Investors are also bracing for interest rate decisions from the Bank of England and the Swiss National Bank later this week. In Asia, the Bank of Japan held rates steady at 0.5 per cent, its highest level since 2007, reflecting the growing uncertainty amid global inflation risks and weak domestic demand. Despite the conflict, Qatar said operations at the world’s largest gas field remain unaffected, even as Iran suspended some output after Israeli air strikes. The Iran–Israel war is redrawing the global economic map, with oil markets, central banks, and investors caught in its crosshairs. The longer it lasts, the deeper its impact on inflation, policy, and global growth. (With inputs from the agencies)

Oil prices surge and markets slip as the Iran–Israel conflict escalates near the Strait of Hormuz, fuelling fears of a global energy shock.

Oil hits sixth-day high, Wall Street wobbles as Iran–Israel tensions escalate

US President Donald Trump will this week give TikTok a fresh 90-day extension to find a non-Chinese buyer, the White House said Tuesday, the third time he has put off a threatened ban on the popular app.&nbsp;A federal law requiring TikTok's sale or ban on national security grounds was due to take effect the day before Trump's January inauguration.&nbsp;"President Trump will sign an additional Executive Order this week to keep TikTok up and running. As he has said many times, President Trump does not want TikTok to go dark," Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement.&nbsp;"This extension will last 90 days, which the administration will spend working to ensure this deal is closed so that the American people can continue to use TikTok with the assurance that their data is safe and secure."&nbsp;Trump, whose 2024 election campaign relied heavily on social media, has previously said he is fond of the video sharing app.&nbsp;"I have a little warm spot in my heart for TikTok," Trump said in an NBC News interview in early May. "If it needs an extension, I would be willing to give it an extension."&nbsp;<h2>Digital Cold War?</h2> Trump said at the time that a group of purchasers was ready to pay TikTok owner ByteDance "a lot of money" for the video-clip-sharing sensation's US operations.&nbsp;Trump has repeatedly downplayed risks that TikTok is in danger, saying he remains confident of finding a buyer for the app's US business.&nbsp;The president is "just not motivated to do anything about TikTok," said independent analyst Rob Enderle. "Unless they get on his bad side, TikTok is probably going to be in pretty good shape."&nbsp;Trump had long supported a ban or divestment, but reversed his position and vowed to defend the platform after coming to believe it helped him win young voters' support in the November election.&nbsp;Motivated by national security fears and belief in Washington that TikTok is controlled by the Chinese government, the ban took effect on January 19, one day before Trump's inauguration, with ByteDance having made no attempt to find a suitor.&nbsp;TikTok "has become a symbol of the US-China tech rivalry; a flashpoint in the new Cold War for digital control," said Shweta Singh, an assistant professor of information systems at Warwick Business School in Britain.&nbsp;The Republican president announced an initial 75-day delay of the ban upon taking office. A second extension pushed the deadline to June 19.&nbsp;<h2>Tariff turmoil</h2> Trump said in April that China would have agreed to a deal on the sale of TikTok if it were not for a dispute over his tariffs on Beijing.ByteDance has confirmed talks with the US government, saying key matters needed to be resolved and that any deal would be "subject to approval under Chinese law".&nbsp;Possible solutions reportedly include seeing existing US investors in ByteDance roll over their stakes into a new independent global TikTok company.&nbsp;Additional US investors, including Oracle and private equity firm Blackstone, would be brought on to reduce ByteDance's share in the new TikTok.&nbsp;Much of TikTok's US activity is already housed on Oracle servers, and the company's chairman, Larry Ellison, is a longtime Trump ally.Uncertainty remains, particularly over what would happen to TikTok's valuable algorithm.&nbsp;"TikTok without its algorithm is like Harry Potter without his wand -- it's simply not as powerful," said Forrester Principal Analyst Kelsey Chickering.&nbsp;Meanwhile, it appears TikTok is continuing with business as usual.TikTok on Monday introduced a new "Symphony" suite of generative artificial intelligence tools for advertisers to turn words or photos into video snippets for the platform.

A federal law requiring TikTok's sale or ban on national security grounds was due to take effect the day before Trump's January inauguration.

US President Donald Trump will this week give TikTok a fresh 90-day extension to find a non-Chinese buyer, the White House said Tuesday, the third time he has put off a threatened ban on the popular app. A federal law requiring TikTok's sale or ban on national security grounds was due to take effect the day before Trump's January inauguration. "President Trump will sign an additional Executive Order this week to keep TikTok up and running. As he has said many times, President Trump does not want TikTok to go dark," Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement. "This extension will last 90 days, which the administration will spend working to ensure this deal is closed so that the American people can continue to use TikTok with the assurance that their data is safe and secure." Trump, whose 2024 election campaign relied heavily on social media, has previously said he is fond of the video sharing app. "I have a little warm spot in my heart for TikTok," Trump said in an NBC News interview in early May. "If it needs an extension, I would be willing to give it an extension." Digital Cold War? Trump said at the time that a group of purchasers was ready to pay TikTok owner ByteDance "a lot of money" for the video-clip-sharing sensation's US operations. Trump has repeatedly downplayed risks that TikTok is in danger, saying he remains confident of finding a buyer for the app's US business. The president is "just not motivated to do anything about TikTok," said independent analyst Rob Enderle. "Unless they get on his bad side, TikTok is probably going to be in pretty good shape." Trump had long supported a ban or divestment, but reversed his position and vowed to defend the platform after coming to believe it helped him win young voters' support in the November election. Motivated by national security fears and belief in Washington that TikTok is controlled by the Chinese government, the ban took effect on January 19, one day before Trump's inauguration, with ByteDance having made no attempt to find a suitor. TikTok "has become a symbol of the US-China tech rivalry; a flashpoint in the new Cold War for digital control," said Shweta Singh, an assistant professor of information systems at Warwick Business School in Britain. The Republican president announced an initial 75-day delay of the ban upon taking office. A second extension pushed the deadline to June 19. Tariff turmoil Trump said in April that China would have agreed to a deal on the sale of TikTok if it were not for a dispute over his tariffs on Beijing. ByteDance has confirmed talks with the US government, saying key matters needed to be resolved and that any deal would be "subject to approval under Chinese law". Possible solutions reportedly include seeing existing US investors in ByteDance roll over their stakes into a new independent global TikTok company. Additional US investors, including Oracle and private equity firm Blackstone, would be brought on to reduce ByteDance's share in the new TikTok. Much of TikTok's US activity is already housed on Oracle servers, and the company's chairman, Larry Ellison, is a longtime Trump ally. Uncertainty remains, particularly over what would happen to TikTok's valuable algorithm. "TikTok without its algorithm is like Harry Potter without his wand -- it's simply not as powerful," said Forrester Principal Analyst Kelsey Chickering. Meanwhile, it appears TikTok is continuing with business as usual. TikTok on Monday introduced a new "Symphony" suite of generative artificial intelligence tools for advertisers to turn words or photos into video snippets for the platform.

A federal law requiring TikTok's sale or ban on national security grounds was due to take effect the day before Trump's January inauguration.

Trump extends TikTok deadline by 90 more days, says White House

Group of Seven leaders minus President Donald Trump on Tuesday vowed greater support for Ukraine, as the United States blocked a joint call to pressure Russia, which is ramping up attacks on its neighbor.&nbsp;The US president had been due to meet at the G7 summit in Canada with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, with whom he has had a volatile relationship, but flew back to Monday over the Israel-Iran conflict.&nbsp;Zelensky met the other leaders at a remote lodge in the Canadian Rockies hours after Russia hit Kyiv with one of the worst bombardments since it invaded in February 2022, killing at least 10 people in the capital.&nbsp;Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Zelensky and announced Can$2 billion ($1.47bn) of military support, including drones and helicopters, for Ukraine."This underscores the importance of standing in total solidarity with Ukraine," Carney told him, calling for "maximum pressure against Russia."&nbsp;But the Group of Seven summit was unable to issue a joint statement on Ukraine as "the Americans wanted to water it down," a Canadian official said on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;The United States objected to language condemning Russia, saying it wanted to preserve its role as a mediator with President Vladimir Putin, the official said."That is not the position that we take, and the other six countries who have also agreed to put strong language in that declaration," she said.&nbsp;Carney will instead put out a statement on Ukraine as chair of the summit rather than from all the leaders, the official said.&nbsp;In Washington, the State Department separately condemned the Russian strikes and offered condolences to the victims' families.&nbsp;<h2>US waits on pressure</h2> Carney also joined Britain in tightening sanctions on Russia's so-called shadow fleet of ships used to circumvent international sanctions on its oil sales."These sanctions strike right at the heart of Putin's war machine, choking off his ability to continue his barbaric war in Ukraine," Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement.&nbsp;US lawmakers have drafted a package of new sanctions on Russia but Trump has been hesitant to give his support, saying he wants to preserve relations with Putin, whom he spoke to by telephone on the eve of the G7 summit.&nbsp;Trump infamously berated Zelensky in the Oval Office on February 28, saying he was ungrateful for US aid, but has since voiced disappointment that Putin has rebuffed a US proposal for at least a temporary ceasefire.&nbsp;Zelensky, his voice choked with emotion, told Carney that the latest Russian attack was a "big tragedy" and it showed the need for allies' support -- and made clear that he still backed Trump-led calls for negotiations.&nbsp;"It's important for our soldiers to be strong in the battlefield, to stay strong until Russia will be ready for the peace negotiations," Zelensky said.&nbsp;"We are ready for the peace negotiation -- unconditional ceasefire. For this we need pressure."&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron accused his Russian counterpart of exploiting global focus on the Middle East to carry out the deadly attack."It shows the complete cynicism of President Putin," Macron told reporters at the summit.&nbsp;<h2>Tough trade talks</h2> The G7 -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States -- was holding its first summit since the return to power of Trump, who openly questions longstanding US alliances.&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained to represent the United States at the summit, where discussions have also concentrated on Trump's attempts to radically overhaul the world's trading system.&nbsp;Trump has vowed to slap sweeping tariffs on friends and foes alike on July 9, although he has postponed them once.&nbsp;The US president, speaking to reporters on his way back from the summit, complained that the European Union was not yet offering a "fair deal" on trade.&nbsp;"We're either going to make a good deal or they'll just pay whatever we say they will pay," he said.&nbsp;European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said she still hoped for a negotiated solution and that talks were "intense and demanding."&nbsp;Trump's negotiators have already sealed a deal with Britain and, outside of the G7, reached an agreement to lower tariffs with rival China.&nbsp;Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said he had "frank" discussions with Trump on Monday but made clear the importance of automobile exports to the world's second-largest developed economy.

The US president had been due to meet at the G7 summit in Canada with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, with whom he has had a volatile relationship, but flew back to Monday over the Israel-Iran conflict.

Group of Seven leaders minus President Donald Trump on Tuesday vowed greater support for Ukraine, as the United States blocked a joint call to pressure Russia, which is ramping up attacks on its neighbor. The US president had been due to meet at the G7 summit in Canada with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, with whom he has had a volatile relationship, but flew back to Monday over the Israel-Iran conflict. Zelensky met the other leaders at a remote lodge in the Canadian Rockies hours after Russia hit Kyiv with one of the worst bombardments since it invaded in February 2022, killing at least 10 people in the capital. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Zelensky and announced Can$2 billion ($1.47bn) of military support, including drones and helicopters, for Ukraine. "This underscores the importance of standing in total solidarity with Ukraine," Carney told him, calling for "maximum pressure against Russia." But the Group of Seven summit was unable to issue a joint statement on Ukraine as "the Americans wanted to water it down," a Canadian official said on condition of anonymity. The United States objected to language condemning Russia, saying it wanted to preserve its role as a mediator with President Vladimir Putin, the official said. "That is not the position that we take, and the other six countries who have also agreed to put strong language in that declaration," she said. Carney will instead put out a statement on Ukraine as chair of the summit rather than from all the leaders, the official said. In Washington, the State Department separately condemned the Russian strikes and offered condolences to the victims' families. US waits on pressure Carney also joined Britain in tightening sanctions on Russia's so-called shadow fleet of ships used to circumvent international sanctions on its oil sales. "These sanctions strike right at the heart of Putin's war machine, choking off his ability to continue his barbaric war in Ukraine," Prime Minister Keir Starmer said in a statement. US lawmakers have drafted a package of new sanctions on Russia but Trump has been hesitant to give his support, saying he wants to preserve relations with Putin, whom he spoke to by telephone on the eve of the G7 summit. Trump infamously berated Zelensky in the Oval Office on February 28, saying he was ungrateful for US aid, but has since voiced disappointment that Putin has rebuffed a US proposal for at least a temporary ceasefire. Zelensky, his voice choked with emotion, told Carney that the latest Russian attack was a "big tragedy" and it showed the need for allies' support -- and made clear that he still backed Trump-led calls for negotiations. "It's important for our soldiers to be strong in the battlefield, to stay strong until Russia will be ready for the peace negotiations," Zelensky said. "We are ready for the peace negotiation -- unconditional ceasefire. For this we need pressure." French President Emmanuel Macron accused his Russian counterpart of exploiting global focus on the Middle East to carry out the deadly attack. "It shows the complete cynicism of President Putin," Macron told reporters at the summit. Tough trade talks The G7 -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States -- was holding its first summit since the return to power of Trump, who openly questions longstanding US alliances. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained to represent the United States at the summit, where discussions have also concentrated on Trump's attempts to radically overhaul the world's trading system. Trump has vowed to slap sweeping tariffs on friends and foes alike on July 9, although he has postponed them once. The US president, speaking to reporters on his way back from the summit, complained that the European Union was not yet offering a "fair deal" on trade. "We're either going to make a good deal or they'll just pay whatever we say they will pay," he said. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said she still hoped for a negotiated solution and that talks were "intense and demanding." Trump's negotiators have already sealed a deal with Britain and, outside of the G7, reached an agreement to lower tariffs with rival China. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said he had "frank" discussions with Trump on Monday but made clear the importance of automobile exports to the world's second-largest developed economy.

The US president had been due to meet at the G7 summit in Canada with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky, with whom he has had a volatile relationship, but flew back to Monday over the Israel-Iran conflict.

G7 leaders vow support to Ukraine as Trump blocks joint statement

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

Elon Musk has released the results of a drug test following claims that he had been using illegal substances during his involvement in Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign.Last month, The New York Times published a report alleging that Musk, who was described as Trump’s biggest financial backer, had taken drugs such as ketamine, ecstasy, and magic mushrooms. The report cited unnamed sources familiar with his behaviour.On Tuesday, Musk posted what he claimed were lab results on X, with a caption ‘LOL’. The test was conducted on 11 June by “Fastest Labs of South Austin” in Texas.According to the lab report, Musk tested negative for a range of substances, including amphetamines, MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, ketamine, marijuana, and fentanyl.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">lol <a href="https://t.co/pMe3YfXFxS">pic.twitter.com/pMe3YfXFxS</a>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1934879919059947788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Only urine test conducted, not hair or blood analysis</h3>The lab results Musk shared only show the outcome of a urine test. Experts note that urine tests are limited in scope, they can only detect drugs used in the past few days.In comparison, hair follicle tests can detect drug use over a longer period, often up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests have different detection windows.This means that Musk’s test results do not necessarily disprove allegations of past drug use, particularly claims of drug-taking earlier in 2024.<h2>Musk denies chronic drug use allegations</h2>Responding to the original allegations, Musk stated, “I tried prescription ketamine a few years ago and said so on X, so this not even news. It helps for getting out of dark mental holes, but haven’t taken it since then.” He also accused the New York Times of “lying.”The newspaper’s report alleged that Musk kept various pills in a daily medication box and described his ketamine use as “chronic”, even claiming it caused bladder issues.<h2>Musk–Trump tensions deepen over drug claims</h2>The timing of the drug allegations coincided with Musk’s departure from the White House, following a 130-day stint as “DOGE leader."Soon after, Musk and Trump began clashing publicly, with Musk criticising Trump’s legislative efforts and accusing him of being linked to Jeffrey Epstein.Musk wrote on X, “Trump is in the Epstein files… the real reason they haven’t been released.” Trump denied the accusation.In private, Trump reportedly called Musk a “Big-Time drug addict”, according to a Washington Post report. However, when asked by reporters whether he had seen Musk take drugs, Trump replied, “I don’t think so. I hope not. I wish him well.”A few days later, Musk appeared to soften his tone. He wrote, “I regret some of my posts about President Donald Trump last week. They went too far.”

According to the lab report, Musk tested negative for a range of substances, including amphetamines, MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, ketamine, marijuana, and fentanyl.

Elon Musk has released the results of a drug test following claims that he had been using illegal substances during his involvement in Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign. Last month, The New York Times published a report alleging that Musk, who was described as Trump’s biggest financial backer, had taken drugs such as ketamine, ecstasy, and magic mushrooms. The report cited unnamed sources familiar with his behaviour. On Tuesday, Musk posted what he claimed were lab results on X, with a caption ‘LOL’. The test was conducted on 11 June by “Fastest Labs of South Austin” in Texas. According to the lab report, Musk tested negative for a range of substances, including amphetamines, MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, ketamine, marijuana, and fentanyl.

According to the lab report, Musk tested negative for a range of substances, including amphetamines, MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, ketamine, marijuana, and fentanyl.

'LOL': Elon Musk shares drug test report after Trump's 'big-time drug addict' claim, but it doesn't prove his innocence - Here's why

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

At a G7 summit in Canada, US President Donald Trump called the decision to throw Russia out of the G8 a “big mistake”. He said, “You wouldn’t have that war,” suggesting that keeping Russia in the group might have prevented the Ukraine conflict.Trump criticised then-US President Barack Obama and mistakenly blamed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for Russia’s removal, although Stephen Harper was actually Canada’s leader at the time.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-bin-laden-s-killing-to-iran-israel-war-us-presidents-at-work-in-white-house-situation-room-1750153974056">From Bin Laden's killing to Iran-Israel war: US presidents at work in White House Situation Room</a>He claimed that “too much water has gone over the dam” to bring Russia back now, but added that Russian President Vladimir Putin “was very insulted” by the move.<h2>What is the G8 and how did Russia join?</h2>The Group of Eight (G8) was an informal group of eight major industrialised nations, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, formed to discuss and coordinate global economic policy and political issues.Russia joined the group in 1998, turning the G7 into the G8. Its inclusion was seen as a step towards integrating post-Soviet Russia into the Western-led global order.<h2>What led to Russia’s removal from the G8?</h2>Russia was removed from the group in 2014 after it annexed Crimea, a region that was internationally recognised as part of Ukraine. The move was condemned by the international community.In a joint statement at the time, world leaders said, “International law prohibits the acquisition of part or all of another state’s territory through coercion or force… We condemn the illegal referendum held in Crimea in violation of Ukraine’s constitution.”As a result, the remaining members of the G8 suspended Russia’s membership, reverting the group back to the G7.<h2>Did Trump push to bring Russia back?</h2>Yes. Trump has repeatedly said that Russia should be invited back into the group. He argued that having Putin at the table would make discussions more effective, saying that leaving Russia out “makes it more complicated”."You know you have your enemy at the table, I don’t even consider, he wasn’t really an enemy at that time," Trump said.However, most G7 members remain firmly opposed to reinstating Russia, pointing to its continued military involvement in Ukraine and disregard for international law.Trump’s comments about Russia's inclusion in G7 came a day before he was scheduled to meet his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, on the sidelines of the summit.However, the meeting was cancelled as the White House stated that the US president would be leaving the summit early due to ongoing developments in the Middle East.

Trump criticised then-US President Barack Obama and mistakenly blamed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for Russia’s removal, although Stephen Harper was actually Canada’s leader at the time.

At a G7 summit in Canada, US President Donald Trump called the decision to throw Russia out of the G8 a “big mistake”. He said, “You wouldn’t have that war,” suggesting that keeping Russia in the group might have prevented the Ukraine conflict. Trump criticised then-US President Barack Obama and mistakenly blamed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for Russia’s removal, although Stephen Harper was actually Canada’s leader at the time. Also read: From Bin Laden's killing to Iran-Israel war: US presidents at work in White House Situation Room He claimed that “too much water has gone over the dam” to bring Russia back now, but added that Russian President Vladimir Putin “was very insulted” by the move. What is the G8 and how did Russia join? The Group of Eight (G8) was an informal group of eight major industrialised nations, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, formed to discuss and coordinate global economic policy and political issues. Russia joined the group in 1998, turning the G7 into the G8. Its inclusion was seen as a step towards integrating post-Soviet Russia into the Western-led global order. What led to Russia’s removal from the G8? Russia was removed from the group in 2014 after it annexed Crimea, a region that was internationally recognised as part of Ukraine. The move was condemned by the international community. In a joint statement at the time, world leaders said, “International law prohibits the acquisition of part or all of another state’s territory through coercion or force… We condemn the illegal referendum held in Crimea in violation of Ukraine’s constitution.” As a result, the remaining members of the G8 suspended Russia’s membership, reverting the group back to the G7. Did Trump push to bring Russia back? Yes. Trump has repeatedly said that Russia should be invited back into the group. He argued that having Putin at the table would make discussions more effective, saying that leaving Russia out “makes it more complicated”. "You know you have your enemy at the table, I don’t even consider, he wasn’t really an enemy at that time," Trump said. However, most G7 members remain firmly opposed to reinstating Russia, pointing to its continued military involvement in Ukraine and disregard for international law. Trump’s comments about Russia's inclusion in G7 came a day before he was scheduled to meet his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky, on the sidelines of the summit. However, the meeting was cancelled as the White House stated that the US president would be leaving the summit early due to ongoing developments in the Middle East.

Trump criticised then-US President Barack Obama and mistakenly blamed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for Russia’s removal, although Stephen Harper was actually Canada’s leader at the time.

Trump wants Putin back in G7 and make it G8 as earlier. Why was Russia kicked out? Can it return?

Democratic senator Tim Kaine from Virginia introduced legislation on Monday (June 17) to prevent United States (US) President Donald Trump from using military force against Iran without Congress's authorisation. As per reports, Kaine has tried for years to wrest back Congress's authority to declare war from the White House.&nbsp;Kaine said that the war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war. "It is not in our national security interest to get into a war with Iran unless that war is absolutely necessary to defend the United States. I am deeply concerned that the recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran could quickly pull the United States into another endless conflict," Kaine said in a statement. “The American people have no interest in sending service members to fight another forever war in the Middle East. This resolution will ensure that if we decide to place our nation’s men and women in uniform into harm’s way, we will have a debate and vote on it in Congress,” he added.&nbsp;Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. The to-and-fro offensive has continued for four days now. During Trump's first term, in 2020, Kaine introduced a similar resolution to rein in the Republican president's ability to wage war against Iran, reported Reuters. That measure passed both the Senate and House of Representatives, but did not garner enough votes to survive the president's veto. Under US law, war powers resolutions are privileged, meaning that the Senate will be required to promptly consider and vote on the matter.<h2>‘US should avoid war’</h2>Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, accused Israel of timing its attack on Iran to sabotage talks on Iran's nuclear program that had been scheduled for Sunday. He also said Washington should avoid the conflict. "The U.S. Constitution is crystal clear: there can be no offensive use of military force — against Iran or any other country — without an explicit authorization from Congress," Sanders said in a statement. Some Republicans said the United States should avoid war. Kentucky Senator Rand Paul said he hoped Trump would not give in to pressure to get involved. "It's not the US' job to be involved in this war," Paul said to NBC. "This is not our war. We should not engage our military here," Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky said on X. However, there are many who support Israel. "If diplomacy fails... help Israel finish the job. Give them bombs, fly with them if necessary," Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said to CBS. &nbsp;

Kaine said his latest war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war amid Israel-Iran conflict

Democratic senator Tim Kaine from Virginia introduced legislation on Monday (June 17) to prevent United States (US) President Donald Trump from using military force against Iran without Congress's authorisation. As per reports, Kaine has tried for years to wrest back Congress's authority to declare war from the White House. Kaine said that the war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war. "It is not in our national security interest to get into a war with Iran unless that war is absolutely necessary to defend the United States. I am deeply concerned that the recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran could quickly pull the United States into another endless conflict," Kaine said in a statement. “The American people have no interest in sending service members to fight another forever war in the Middle East. This resolution will ensure that if we decide to place our nation’s men and women in uniform into harm’s way, we will have a debate and vote on it in Congress,” he added. Israel struck Iran's nuclear sites in massive airstrikes under ‘Operation Rising Lion’ on June 13. In retaliation, Iran launched ‘Operation True Promise 3’ striking Israeli cities and fighter jet fuel production facilities and energy supply centres. The to-and-fro offensive has continued for four days now. During Trump's first term, in 2020, Kaine introduced a similar resolution to rein in the Republican president's ability to wage war against Iran, reported Reuters. That measure passed both the Senate and House of Representatives, but did not garner enough votes to survive the president's veto. Under US law, war powers resolutions are privileged, meaning that the Senate will be required to promptly consider and vote on the matter. ‘US should avoid war’ Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent who caucuses with Democrats, accused Israel of timing its attack on Iran to sabotage talks on Iran's nuclear program that had been scheduled for Sunday. He also said Washington should avoid the conflict. "The U.S. Constitution is crystal clear: there can be no offensive use of military force — against Iran or any other country — without an explicit authorization from Congress," Sanders said in a statement. Some Republicans said the United States should avoid war. Kentucky Senator Rand Paul said he hoped Trump would not give in to pressure to get involved. "It's not the US' job to be involved in this war," Paul said to NBC. "This is not our war. We should not engage our military here," Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky said on X. However, there are many who support Israel. "If diplomacy fails... help Israel finish the job. Give them bombs, fly with them if necessary," Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina said to CBS.

Kaine said his latest war powers resolution underscores that the US Constitution gives Congress, not the president, the sole power to declare war amid Israel-Iran conflict

US senator introduces war powers resolution to clip Trump’s powers amid Israel-Iran conflict: What does this mean?

Oil prices jumped sharply on Tuesday as fresh explosions rocked Tehran and tensions soared between Iran and Israel, fuelling fears of a wider regional conflict that could disrupt global energy supplies.&nbsp;Brent crude futures climbed $1.17, or 1.6 per cent, to $74.40 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate rose $1.34, or 1.87 per cent, to $73.11 in early trading, both having risen more than 2 per cent earlier in the session, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;The spike reverses Monday’s brief decline, when hopes of diplomatic de-escalation flickered after reports suggested Iran was open to ending hostilities. But those hopes evaporated overnight.<h2>Explosions in Tehran, missiles over Tel Aviv</h2>On the fifth day of the intensifying standoff, Iranian media reported explosions and heavy anti-aircraft fire in central Tehran. Air raid sirens also sounded in Tel Aviv as Israel responded to incoming Iranian missiles.&nbsp;The development comes after an Israeli strike hit Iran’s state broadcaster on Monday. Separately, the head of the UN’s nuclear watchdog confirmed significant damage to Iran’s largest uranium enrichment plant, raising fears of further retaliation.&nbsp;Iran is the third-largest oil producer in the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and any military escalation could severely affect its crude output.<h2>Trump: ‘Evacuate everyone’ from Tehran</h2>Speaking to reporters on Monday night, US President Donald Trump said the situation was “extremely dangerous” and warned, “Everyone should evacuate Tehran immediately.” He added that Iran had missed a chance to strike a nuclear deal with Washington before hostilities began, but suggested Tehran may now be reconsidering.&nbsp;“If they had signed the deal, we wouldn’t be here,” Trump said. “But they didn’t. And now they want to.”&nbsp;Trump also hinted that easing US sanctions could still be on the table, potentially allowing Iran to ramp up oil exports. Such a scenario would normally put downward pressure on oil prices, but for now, traders are focused on immediate supply disruptions.<h2>OPEC+ sees slowing growth in US oil supply</h2>Meanwhile, OPEC and its allies, including Russia, collectively known as OPEC+, said on Monday they expect the global economy to remain “resilient” through the second half of 2025. However, the bloc trimmed its 2026 forecast for oil supply growth from non-OPEC+ producers such as the US and Brazil.&nbsp;The group, which accounts for nearly half the world’s oil output, is closely monitoring the Iran–Israel crisis for signs of a prolonged shock to Middle Eastern production flows.<h2>Market outlook: Volatility ahead</h2>Energy analysts warn that oil prices could rise sharply if fighting spreads or damages critical infrastructure in the Gulf. Iran controls key access points to the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of global oil flows.&nbsp;“Any direct damage to Iranian oil facilities, or attempts to block the Strait, would be a red line for the global market,” said an analyst quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;With the US presidential election looming and the Middle East on edge, the oil market is once again at the mercy of geopolitics, setting the stage for more volatility in the weeks ahead.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies) &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump warned everyone to evacuate Tehran immediately and suggested Iran may reconsider signing a nuclear deal with Washington. 

Oil prices jumped sharply on Tuesday as fresh explosions rocked Tehran and tensions soared between Iran and Israel, fuelling fears of a wider regional conflict that could disrupt global energy supplies. Brent crude futures climbed $1.17, or 1.6 per cent, to $74.40 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate rose $1.34, or 1.87 per cent, to $73.11 in early trading, both having risen more than 2 per cent earlier in the session, as quoted by Reuters. The spike reverses Monday’s brief decline, when hopes of diplomatic de-escalation flickered after reports suggested Iran was open to ending hostilities. But those hopes evaporated overnight. Explosions in Tehran, missiles over Tel Aviv On the fifth day of the intensifying standoff, Iranian media reported explosions and heavy anti-aircraft fire in central Tehran. Air raid sirens also sounded in Tel Aviv as Israel responded to incoming Iranian missiles. The development comes after an Israeli strike hit Iran’s state broadcaster on Monday. Separately, the head of the UN’s nuclear watchdog confirmed significant damage to Iran’s largest uranium enrichment plant, raising fears of further retaliation. Iran is the third-largest oil producer in the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and any military escalation could severely affect its crude output. Trump: ‘Evacuate everyone’ from Tehran Speaking to reporters on Monday night, US President Donald Trump said the situation was “extremely dangerous” and warned, “Everyone should evacuate Tehran immediately.” He added that Iran had missed a chance to strike a nuclear deal with Washington before hostilities began, but suggested Tehran may now be reconsidering. “If they had signed the deal, we wouldn’t be here,” Trump said. “But they didn’t. And now they want to.” Trump also hinted that easing US sanctions could still be on the table, potentially allowing Iran to ramp up oil exports. Such a scenario would normally put downward pressure on oil prices, but for now, traders are focused on immediate supply disruptions. OPEC+ sees slowing growth in US oil supply Meanwhile, OPEC and its allies, including Russia, collectively known as OPEC+, said on Monday they expect the global economy to remain “resilient” through the second half of 2025. However, the bloc trimmed its 2026 forecast for oil supply growth from non-OPEC+ producers such as the US and Brazil. The group, which accounts for nearly half the world’s oil output, is closely monitoring the Iran–Israel crisis for signs of a prolonged shock to Middle Eastern production flows. Market outlook: Volatility ahead Energy analysts warn that oil prices could rise sharply if fighting spreads or damages critical infrastructure in the Gulf. Iran controls key access points to the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint through which nearly one-fifth of global oil flows. “Any direct damage to Iranian oil facilities, or attempts to block the Strait, would be a red line for the global market,” said an analyst quoted by Reuters. With the US presidential election looming and the Middle East on edge, the oil market is once again at the mercy of geopolitics, setting the stage for more volatility in the weeks ahead. (With inputs from the agencies)

Oil prices surged on Tuesday due to fresh explosions in Tehran and increased tensions between Iran and Israel.&nbsp;

Oil prices climb amid Iran–Israel escalation, Trump issues evacuation warning

US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports.This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada to attend to many “important matters.” Leavitt added that the early return of Trump was necessitated “because of what’s going on in the Middle East.”&nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250617/image-1750125262077.png"></figure>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Tehran asked Gulf leaders to urge US President Trump to pressure Israel to halt its military actions, according to news agency Reuters. In return, Iran has signalled its readiness to show flexibility in long-stalled nuclear negotiations. Tehran's hint for signing the nuclear deal comes after Trump on Monday said that he believes Iran wants to make an agreement soon.&nbsp;"As I've been saying, I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen, but a deal will be signed, and I think Iran is foolish not to sign," Trump told reporters on the sidelines of the G7 summit.&nbsp;It may be recalled that Trump was seen in the situation room during his first term, along with then Vice President Mike Pence and other senior advisers when America's drone strike killed Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad in 2020. President Trump's ‘evacuate Tehran’ comment amid reports of his situation room meeting caused chaos as Israel continued bombing parts of the Iranian capital.&nbsp;"Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump had said.<h2>What is US situation room?</h2>The Situation Room is an intelligence management complex on the ground floor of the West Wing of the White House. The CIA website states that the White House Situation Room (WHSR), is a conference room surrounded on three sides by two small offices, multiple workstations, computers, and communications equipment. The conference room is soundproofed and well-appointed but small and slightly cramped.&nbsp;&nbsp;The WHSR was established by President Kennedy after the Bay of Pigs disaster in 1961. That crisis revealed a need for rapid and secure presidential communications and for White House coordination of the many external communications channels of national security information which led to the President. Since then, the mission of the 'Sit Room' has been to provide current intelligence and crisis support to the NSC staff, the National Security Adviser, and the President. The Sit Room staff is composed of approximately 30 personnel, organised around five Watch Teams that provide 7-day, 24- hour monitoring of international events.&nbsp;

This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada because of what’s going on in the Middle East

US President Donald Trump has requested that the National Security Council be prepared in the Situation Room, according to US media reports. This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada to attend to many “important matters.” Leavitt added that the early return of Trump was necessitated “because of what’s going on in the Middle East.” Meanwhile, Tehran asked Gulf leaders to urge US President Trump to pressure Israel to halt its military actions, according to news agency Reuters. In return, Iran has signalled its readiness to show flexibility in long-stalled nuclear negotiations. Tehran's hint for signing the nuclear deal comes after Trump on Monday said that he believes Iran wants to make an agreement soon. "As I've been saying, I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen, but a deal will be signed, and I think Iran is foolish not to sign," Trump told reporters on the sidelines of the G7 summit. It may be recalled that Trump was seen in the situation room during his first term, along with then Vice President Mike Pence and other senior advisers when America's drone strike killed Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad in 2020. President Trump's ‘evacuate Tehran’ comment amid reports of his situation room meeting caused chaos as Israel continued bombing parts of the Iranian capital. "Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump had said. What is US situation room? The Situation Room is an intelligence management complex on the ground floor of the West Wing of the White House. The CIA website states that the White House Situation Room (WHSR), is a conference room surrounded on three sides by two small offices, multiple workstations, computers, and communications equipment. The conference room is soundproofed and well-appointed but small and slightly cramped. The WHSR was established by President Kennedy after the Bay of Pigs disaster in 1961. That crisis revealed a need for rapid and secure presidential communications and for White House coordination of the many external communications channels of national security information which led to the President. Since then, the mission of the 'Sit Room' has been to provide current intelligence and crisis support to the NSC staff, the National Security Adviser, and the President. The Sit Room staff is composed of approximately 30 personnel, organised around five Watch Teams that provide 7-day, 24- hour monitoring of international events.

This comes after the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Trump will return to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada because of what’s going on in the Middle East

Trump heads to US Situation Room amid heightened Israel-Iran tensions | What is 'Sit Room' and what this means?

The White House on Monday (Jun 16) said that US President Donald Trump would be leaving the Group of Seven summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East. This comes as the military operations in Israel and Iran continue for a fourth night.&nbsp;“President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X.&nbsp;According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.&nbsp;The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East.&nbsp;In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump warned Iranians to evacuate Tehran, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote during G7 summit in Canada, without providing further details.&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,” the US president said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”.&nbsp;Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. He added that Iran is not winning the conflict and should sign the deal “before it’s too late”.&nbsp;He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.

The White House on Monday (Jun 16) said that US President Donald Trump would be leaving the Group of Seven summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East. This comes as the military operations in Israel and Iran continue for a fourth night. “President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X. According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East. In a post on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump warned Iranians to evacuate Tehran, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran. "Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote during G7 summit in Canada, without providing further details. “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,” the US president said. Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”. Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. He added that Iran is not winning the conflict and should sign the deal “before it’s too late”. He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.

‘Much was accomplished, but…’: White House says Trump to leave G7 summit early | Here's why

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 17) urged residents of Tehran to leave, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details.&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,” the US president said.&nbsp;This comes minutes later Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture” as the deadly conflict between Israel and Iran continued for the fourth night.&nbsp;“Over the weekend, I directed the deployment of additional capabilities to the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility,” Hegseth posted on X. “Protecting US forces is our top priority and these deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region.”&nbsp;Shortly after, the White House announced that Trump would be leaving the G7 summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East.&nbsp;“President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X.&nbsp;According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict.&nbsp;The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East.&nbsp;Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take.&nbsp;“As soon as I leave here, we're going to be doing something. But I have to leave here.”&nbsp;Trump also said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations “before it's too late”.&nbsp;He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details.

US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jun 17) urged residents of Tehran to leave, reiterating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's warnings amid the military conflict between Israel and Iran. "Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details. “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,” the US president said. This comes minutes later Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the United States is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture” as the deadly conflict between Israel and Iran continued for the fourth night. “Over the weekend, I directed the deployment of additional capabilities to the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility,” Hegseth posted on X. “Protecting US forces is our top priority and these deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region.” Shortly after, the White House announced that Trump would be leaving the G7 summit a day early due to developments in the Middle East. “President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what’s going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt wrote on X. According to Reuters, a US official said that Trump will not sign a draft statement from G7 leaders calling for de-escalation of the Israel-Iran conflict. The draft statement, seen by Reuters, states that Iran must never have a nuclear weapon and that Israel has the right to defend itself. It also commits to safeguarding market stability, including energy markets. Canadian and European diplomats said that world leaders at the G7 summit in Canada are continuing discussions on the conflict in the Middle East. Talking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump expressed confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal with the US, warning that Washington will be “doing something” once he leaves the international summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. “As soon as I leave here, we're going to be doing something. But I have to leave here.” Trump also said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations “before it's too late”. He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”

"Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social account during a Group of Seven summit in Canada, without providing further details.

‘Immediately evacuate Tehran!’ Trump warns Iran amid escalating tensions in Middle East

US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed his confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal, warning that the US will be “doing something” once he leaves the G7 summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take.&nbsp;He made the comments while talking to reporters as he met with the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the summit in Canada.&nbsp;“I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen. But a deal will be signed,” Trump said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the US is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”.&nbsp;“Over the weekend, I directed the deployment of additional capabilities to the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility,” Hegseth posted on X. “Protecting US forces is our top priority and these deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region.”&nbsp;Trump also said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations “before it's too late”.&nbsp;“They have to make a deal, and it's painful for both parties, but I'd say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk, and they should talk immediately, before it's too late,” Trump told reporters at a G7 summit in Canada.&nbsp;He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”&nbsp;The conflict between Israel and Iran has taken the centre stage at the Group of Seven Summit as the military operation between the two Middle Eastern nations enters a fourth day.&nbsp;UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that efforts to de-escalate the ongoing military actions between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;“We have to find a way to de-escalate the situation, notwithstanding the concerns that we all have about the nuclear program,” Starmer told British broadcaster Sky News. “Notwithstanding, we all accept Israel's right to self-defense, of course. But there must be de-escalation and that will be the central focus of much of the discussion today.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the US is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”.

US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed his confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal, warning that the US will be “doing something” once he leaves the G7 summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. He made the comments while talking to reporters as he met with the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the summit in Canada. “I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen. But a deal will be signed,” Trump said. Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the US is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”. “Over the weekend, I directed the deployment of additional capabilities to the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility,” Hegseth posted on X. “Protecting US forces is our top priority and these deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region.” Trump also said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations “before it's too late”. “They have to make a deal, and it's painful for both parties, but I'd say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk, and they should talk immediately, before it's too late,” Trump told reporters at a G7 summit in Canada. He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.” The conflict between Israel and Iran has taken the centre stage at the Group of Seven Summit as the military operation between the two Middle Eastern nations enters a fourth day. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that efforts to de-escalate the ongoing military actions between Israel and Iran. “We have to find a way to de-escalate the situation, notwithstanding the concerns that we all have about the nuclear program,” Starmer told British broadcaster Sky News. “Notwithstanding, we all accept Israel's right to self-defense, of course. But there must be de-escalation and that will be the central focus of much of the discussion today.”

Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the US is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”.

‘Deal will be signed or…’: Trump warns Iran should re-enter nuclear negotiations ‘before it’s too late’

Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, formally opened the Group of Seven Summit by telling fellow leaders they're meeting at “one of those turning points in history.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Carney said the world is “more divided and dangerous” than during past summits and other "hinge moments," citing G7 gatherings after the fall of the Berlin Wall or the 9/11 terrorist attack on the United States.&nbsp;While Canada and newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney will try their best to avoid clashes with Trump, the Middle East conflict was the main point of discussion as the conflict between Iran and Israel entered fourth day.<h2>Here's a look at what the world leaders said about the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict:</h2>British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the Group of Seven leaders share a concern about the risk of escalation between Israel and Iran. Speaking at the G7 summit in Canada, Starmer told reporters that the talks will focus on de-escalation. Additionally, Starmer said he will discuss the final stages of the UK-US trade deal with US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump on Monday (June 16) said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations "before it's too late."&nbsp;"They have to make a deal, and it's painful for both parties, but I'd say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk, and they should talk immediately, before it's too late," Trump told reporters at a G7 summit in Canada.&nbsp;He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”&nbsp;French President Emmanuel Macron called for strikes against civilians in Iran and Israel to end. He warned that forcing regime change in Tehran would be a “strategic error”.&nbsp;“If the United States can achieve a ceasefire, that's a very good thing,” Macron told reporters at the G7 summit.&nbsp;&nbsp;“All who have thought that by bombing from the outside you can save a country in spite of itself have always been mistaken.”&nbsp;<h2>Trump says deal with Iran ‘will be signed’</h2>&nbsp;Trump expressed his confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal, warning that the US will be “doing something” once he leaves the G7 summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take.&nbsp;“I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen. But a deal will be signed,” Trump told reporters as he met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the summit in Canada.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the US is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”.&nbsp;The escalation of military operations in the Middle East follows a major Israeli operation that targeted 100 sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities. The strikes killed several nuclear scientists and top Iranian military officials, prompting a series of retaliatory attacks between the two nations.

Iran Israel war takes centre stage at G7 Heres what world leaders said

Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, formally opened the Group of Seven Summit by telling fellow leaders they're meeting at “one of those turning points in history.” Carney said the world is “more divided and dangerous” than during past summits and other "hinge moments," citing G7 gatherings after the fall of the Berlin Wall or the 9/11 terrorist attack on the United States. While Canada and newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney will try their best to avoid clashes with Trump, the Middle East conflict was the main point of discussion as the conflict between Iran and Israel entered fourth day. Here's a look at what the world leaders said about the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that the Group of Seven leaders share a concern about the risk of escalation between Israel and Iran. Speaking at the G7 summit in Canada, Starmer told reporters that the talks will focus on de-escalation. Additionally, Starmer said he will discuss the final stages of the UK-US trade deal with US President Donald Trump. US President Donald Trump on Monday (June 16) said that Iran was not winning its conflict with Israel and should re-enter negotiations "before it's too late." "They have to make a deal, and it's painful for both parties, but I'd say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk, and they should talk immediately, before it's too late," Trump told reporters at a G7 summit in Canada. He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.” French President Emmanuel Macron called for strikes against civilians in Iran and Israel to end. He warned that forcing regime change in Tehran would be a “strategic error”. “If the United States can achieve a ceasefire, that's a very good thing,” Macron told reporters at the G7 summit. “All who have thought that by bombing from the outside you can save a country in spite of itself have always been mistaken.” Trump says deal with Iran ‘will be signed’ Trump expressed his confidence that Iran would eventually sign a nuclear deal, warning that the US will be “doing something” once he leaves the G7 summit. He did not specify what possible actions the US plans to take. “I think a deal will be signed, or something will happen. But a deal will be signed,” Trump told reporters as he met British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the summit in Canada. Meanwhile, Pentagon Chief Pete Hegseth announced that the US is reinforcing its military presence in the Middle East to enhance its “defensive posture”. The escalation of military operations in the Middle East follows a major Israeli operation that targeted 100 sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities. The strikes killed several nuclear scientists and top Iranian military officials, prompting a series of retaliatory attacks between the two nations.

Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, formally opened the Group of Seven summit by telling fellow leaders they're meeting at “one of those turning points in history.”&nbsp;

Iran-Israel war takes centre stage at G7: Here's what world leaders said

Abbas Araghchi, Iranian foreign minister on Monday (June 16) said that the United States could stop Israel's attacks on the Islamic republic with just "one phone call".&nbsp;"If President (Donald) Trump is genuine about diplomacy and interested in stopping this war, next steps are consequential. Israel must halt its aggression, and absent a total cessation of military aggression against us, our responses will continue," Araghchi said in a post on X.&nbsp;"It takes one phone call from Washington to muzzle someone like (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu. That may pave the way for a return to diplomacy," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-an-donald-trump-tells-iran-to-make-a-deal-before-it-s-too-late-as-israel-pounds-tehran-1750090399348">'Iran is not winning this war': Trump tells Iran to make a deal before 'it’s too late’ as Israel pounds Tehran</a>&nbsp;Earlier, US President Donald Trump warned Iran to return to negotiations urgently, saying Tehran is not succeeding in its war against Israel.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump said, “They have to make a deal, and it’s painful for both parties, but I’d say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk, and they should talk immediately, before it’s too late.” He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is “on the path to victory” and asserted that the Israeli Air Force now “controls the skies over Tehran.”&nbsp;Separately, Israeli defence minister Israel Katz declared that “the Iranian propaganda and incitement megaphone is about to disappear,” referring to the IRIB facility within the evacuation zone.&nbsp;The escalation follows a major Israeli operation that targeted 100 sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities. The strikes killed several nuclear scientists and top Iranian military officials, prompting a series of retaliatory attacks between the two nations.

With one phone call Iran foreign minister says US could stop Israel attacks

Abbas Araghchi, Iranian foreign minister on Monday (June 16) said that the United States could stop Israel's attacks on the Islamic republic with just "one phone call". "If President (Donald) Trump is genuine about diplomacy and interested in stopping this war, next steps are consequential. Israel must halt its aggression, and absent a total cessation of military aggression against us, our responses will continue," Araghchi said in a post on X. "It takes one phone call from Washington to muzzle someone like (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu. That may pave the way for a return to diplomacy," he added. Also Read: 'Iran is not winning this war': Trump tells Iran to make a deal before 'it’s too late’ as Israel pounds Tehran Earlier, US President Donald Trump warned Iran to return to negotiations urgently, saying Tehran is not succeeding in its war against Israel. Speaking to reporters at the G7 summit in Canada, Trump said, “They have to make a deal, and it’s painful for both parties, but I’d say Iran is not winning this war, and they should talk, and they should talk immediately, before it’s too late.” He reiterated Washington’s support for Israel, adding, “We’ve always supported Israel and Israel is doing very well here.” Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel is “on the path to victory” and asserted that the Israeli Air Force now “controls the skies over Tehran.” Separately, Israeli defence minister Israel Katz declared that “the Iranian propaganda and incitement megaphone is about to disappear,” referring to the IRIB facility within the evacuation zone. The escalation follows a major Israeli operation that targeted 100 sites across Iran, including nuclear facilities. The strikes killed several nuclear scientists and top Iranian military officials, prompting a series of retaliatory attacks between the two nations.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump warned Iran to return to negotiations urgently, saying Tehran is not succeeding in its war against Israel

'With one phone call': Iran foreign minister says US could stop Israel attacks

US President Donald Trump directed federal authorities to ramp up deportation efforts in Democratic-led cities on Sunday, doubling down on a politicised anti-immigration drive after major protests in Los Angeles."We must expand efforts to detain and deport Illegal Aliens in America's largest Cities, such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, where Millions upon Millions of Illegal Aliens reside," Trump said on his Truth Social platform."These, and other such Cities, are the core of the Democrat Power Center," he claimed, citing debunked right-wing conspiracy theories that undocumented immigrants are voting in US elections in significant numbers.Trump has made deporting undocumented immigrants a key priority for his second term, after successfully campaigning against an alleged "invasion" by criminals.Raids by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in Los Angeles have sparked days of mainly peaceful protests, though they have seen sporadic violence at times.Trump has pounced on the violent incidents to deploy 4,000 National Guards and 700 Marines to the Democrat-led city, against the wishes of local and state authorities.California has sued to regain control of the National Guardsmen from Trump, arguing he overstepped his authority. That suit is working its way through federal court.Mayor Karen Bass said Sunday that an overnight curfew put in place last week to stop vandalism and looting at the protests would be extended "a couple more days."She described the fear and anger that have taken hold in the heavily Latino city over the immigration raids."People are afraid to leave their homes," she said, adding that raids have at times felt "indiscriminate.""This is the United States. You are not supposed to have to show your papers if you go out in public," she said.Los Angeles was mostly calm on Sunday with just a handful of demonstrators marching outside City Hall ahead of the curfew.<h2>‘Get the job done!’</h2>In a long screed on Truth Social Sunday, Republican Trump charged that ICE agents "are subjected to violence, harassment, and even threats from Radical Democrat Politicians."But, he insisted, "nothing will stop us from executing our mission... ICE Officers are herewith ordered ... to do all in their power to achieve the very important goal of delivering the single largest Mass Deportation Program in History."Trump made a litany of grievances against "sick" Democrats, including charges that they "believe in Open Borders, Transgender for Everybody, and Men playing in Women's Sports."That, he said, was why he wanted ICE and other law enforcement agencies "to FOCUS on our crime ridden and deadly Inner Cities."He said he had directed his entire administration "to put every resource possible behind this effort, and reverse the tide of Mass Destruction Migration that has turned once Idyllic Towns into scenes of Third World Dystopia."Trump said he wanted "our Brave Officers to know that REAL Americans are cheering you on every day.""To ICE, FBI, DEA, ATF, the Patriots at Pentagon and the State Department, you have my unwavering support. Now go, GET THE JOB DONE!" he wrote.Former president Barack Obama meanwhile criticized Trump's deportation drive."Families with similar backgrounds who just want to live, work, and support their communities, are being demonized and treated as enemies," he said on social media platform X."We can fix our broken immigration system while still recognizing our common humanity and treating each other with dignity and respect."

"We must expand efforts to detain and deport Illegal Aliens in America's largest Cities, such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, where Millions upon Millions of Illegal Aliens reside," Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

US President Donald Trump directed federal authorities to ramp up deportation efforts in Democratic-led cities on Sunday, doubling down on a politicised anti-immigration drive after major protests in Los Angeles. "We must expand efforts to detain and deport Illegal Aliens in America's largest Cities, such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, where Millions upon Millions of Illegal Aliens reside," Trump said on his Truth Social platform. "These, and other such Cities, are the core of the Democrat Power Center," he claimed, citing debunked right-wing conspiracy theories that undocumented immigrants are voting in US elections in significant numbers. Trump has made deporting undocumented immigrants a key priority for his second term, after successfully campaigning against an alleged "invasion" by criminals. Raids by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in Los Angeles have sparked days of mainly peaceful protests, though they have seen sporadic violence at times. Trump has pounced on the violent incidents to deploy 4,000 National Guards and 700 Marines to the Democrat-led city, against the wishes of local and state authorities. California has sued to regain control of the National Guardsmen from Trump, arguing he overstepped his authority. That suit is working its way through federal court. Mayor Karen Bass said Sunday that an overnight curfew put in place last week to stop vandalism and looting at the protests would be extended "a couple more days." She described the fear and anger that have taken hold in the heavily Latino city over the immigration raids. "People are afraid to leave their homes," she said, adding that raids have at times felt "indiscriminate." "This is the United States. You are not supposed to have to show your papers if you go out in public," she said. Los Angeles was mostly calm on Sunday with just a handful of demonstrators marching outside City Hall ahead of the curfew. ‘Get the job done!’ In a long screed on Truth Social Sunday, Republican Trump charged that ICE agents "are subjected to violence, harassment, and even threats from Radical Democrat Politicians." But, he insisted, "nothing will stop us from executing our mission... ICE Officers are herewith ordered ... to do all in their power to achieve the very important goal of delivering the single largest Mass Deportation Program in History." Trump made a litany of grievances against "sick" Democrats, including charges that they "believe in Open Borders, Transgender for Everybody, and Men playing in Women's Sports." That, he said, was why he wanted ICE and other law enforcement agencies "to FOCUS on our crime ridden and deadly Inner Cities." He said he had directed his entire administration "to put every resource possible behind this effort, and reverse the tide of Mass Destruction Migration that has turned once Idyllic Towns into scenes of Third World Dystopia." Trump said he wanted "our Brave Officers to know that REAL Americans are cheering you on every day." "To ICE, FBI, DEA, ATF, the Patriots at Pentagon and the State Department, you have my unwavering support. Now go, GET THE JOB DONE!" he wrote. Former president Barack Obama meanwhile criticized Trump's deportation drive. "Families with similar backgrounds who just want to live, work, and support their communities, are being demonized and treated as enemies," he said on social media platform X. "We can fix our broken immigration system while still recognizing our common humanity and treating each other with dignity and respect."

"We must expand efforts to detain and deport Illegal Aliens in America's largest Cities, such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, where Millions upon Millions of Illegal Aliens reside," Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

Trump orders deportation drive targeting Democratic cities amid protests

The ceremony was earlier, scheduled for Monday at the upscale Ronit’s Farm event hall in Kibbutz Yakum, north of Tel Aviv.

The ceremony was earlier, scheduled for Monday at the upscale Ronit’s Farm event hall in Kibbutz Yakum, north of Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

Who is Avner Netanyahu, the Israeli PM's son whose wedding has been postponed amid Iran's attacks?