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US President Donald Trump has been advised that launching a strike on Iran’s underground Fordow nuclear site would only make sense if the so-called “bunker buster” bomb could destroy the facility. However, Trump is reportedly not fully convinced that it would work, as per a report by The Guardian.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><h2>What is Fordow, and why does it matter?</h2>Fordow is one of Iran’s most heavily protected nuclear enrichment facilities. Built deep inside a mountain, the site is believed to stretch as far down as 90 metres (300 feet). It has recently come under fresh scrutiny after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) found it had enriched uranium up to 83.7%, just below the 90% level needed for a nuclear weapon.Shutting down Fordow is seen as key to halting Iran’s ability to produce weapons-grade uranium.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-iran-war-how-much-time-does-it-take-for-iran-s-ballistic-missiles-to-reach-israel-less-than-what-you-think-1750266248709">Israel-Iran war: How much time does it take for Iran's ballistic missiles to reach Israel?&nbsp;Less than what you think</a><h2>What kind of strike is Trump considering and what are bunker buster bombs?</h2>Donald Trump has explored the possibility of using the GBU-57, a massive 13.6-tonne (30,000lb) bomb often called the “bunker buster”, to hit Fordow. This bomb was specially designed to destroy fortified underground targets. However, Trump has reportedly told defence officials that a strike only makes sense if it can definitely destroy the site.For now, he has held off authorising any action, as he also waits to see whether the threat of US involvement might push Iran to return to negotiations.<h2>Can the GBU-57 really destroy Fordow?</h2>There are serious doubts within the Pentagon. Defence briefings to Trump have raised concerns that even several GBU-57s might not penetrate deep enough to completely wipe out the facility. Instead, they could collapse parts of it or bury tunnels under rubble, delaying Iran’s programme but not ending it.The Fordow site is buried so deeply that some defence officials believe only a tactical nuclear weapon could destroy it entirely.Despite this, Trump is not considering a nuclear option. Sources confirmed that Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, did not present that possibility during situation room briefings.Even a wider bombing operation using multiple GBU-57s might only collapse tunnels and cover parts of the site with rubble, far from complete destruction.Retired Major General Randy Manner, a former deputy director at DTRA, said the bomb might delay Iran’s nuclear programme by six to twelve months, but wouldn’t stop it altogether. “It sounds good for TV, but it’s not real,” he said.<h2>Why can’t Israel destroy the site on its own?</h2>Israel does not have the aircraft or weapons to carry out such a deep strike. While it claims to have air superiority over Iran, only the US has the B-2 bombers capable of carrying the GBU-57 and delivering it precisely. A strike would also require overcoming GPS jammers and other defences to hit the target accurately.In the past, Israel has looked into other options, such as sending commandos by helicopter to blow up the facility from within, but these plans were considered too risky and have been dismissed by Trump.

Fordow is one of Iran’s most heavily protected nuclear enrichment facilities. Built deep inside a mountain, the site is believed to stretch as far down as 90 metres (300 feet). 

US President Donald Trump has been advised that launching a strike on Iran’s underground Fordow nuclear site would only make sense if the so-called “bunker buster” bomb could destroy the facility. However, Trump is reportedly not fully convinced that it would work, as per a report by The Guardian. Also read: 'No one is immune': Netanyahu hints at eliminating Khamenei, vows 'Tehran won't obtain a nuclear weapon' What is Fordow, and why does it matter? Fordow is one of Iran’s most heavily protected nuclear enrichment facilities. Built deep inside a mountain, the site is believed to stretch as far down as 90 metres (300 feet). It has recently come under fresh scrutiny after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) found it had enriched uranium up to 83.7%, just below the 90% level needed for a nuclear weapon. Shutting down Fordow is seen as key to halting Iran’s ability to produce weapons-grade uranium. Also read: Israel-Iran war: How much time does it take for Iran's ballistic missiles to reach Israel? Less than what you think What kind of strike is Trump considering and what are bunker buster bombs? Donald Trump has explored the possibility of using the GBU-57, a massive 13.6-tonne (30,000lb) bomb often called the “bunker buster”, to hit Fordow. This bomb was specially designed to destroy fortified underground targets. However, Trump has reportedly told defence officials that a strike only makes sense if it can definitely destroy the site. For now, he has held off authorising any action, as he also waits to see whether the threat of US involvement might push Iran to return to negotiations. Can the GBU-57 really destroy Fordow? There are serious doubts within the Pentagon. Defence briefings to Trump have raised concerns that even several GBU-57s might not penetrate deep enough to completely wipe out the facility. Instead, they could collapse parts of it or bury tunnels under rubble, delaying Iran’s programme but not ending it. The Fordow site is buried so deeply that some defence officials believe only a tactical nuclear weapon could destroy it entirely. Despite this, Trump is not considering a nuclear option. Sources confirmed that Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, did not present that possibility during situation room briefings. Even a wider bombing operation using multiple GBU-57s might only collapse tunnels and cover parts of the site with rubble, far from complete destruction. Retired Major General Randy Manner, a former deputy director at DTRA, said the bomb might delay Iran’s nuclear programme by six to twelve months, but wouldn’t stop it altogether. “It sounds good for TV, but it’s not real,” he said. Why can’t Israel destroy the site on its own? Israel does not have the aircraft or weapons to carry out such a deep strike. While it claims to have air superiority over Iran, only the US has the B-2 bombers capable of carrying the GBU-57 and delivering it precisely. A strike would also require overcoming GPS jammers and other defences to hit the target accurately. In the past, Israel has looked into other options, such as sending commandos by helicopter to blow up the facility from within, but these plans were considered too risky and have been dismissed by Trump.

Fordow is one of Iran’s most heavily protected nuclear enrichment facilities. Built deep inside a mountain, the site is believed to stretch as far down as 90 metres (300 feet).&nbsp;

Israel-Iran war: Trump unsure if 'bunker buster bomb' could destroy Iran’s Fordow nuclear site - Is this why US not attacking Tehran?

The Ministry of External Affairs and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had once again proven that they care for every citizen of the country. Over 110 Indian students which included 94 Kashmiri students were evacuated from the war zone to India and many of them have already reached Kashmir.&nbsp;Humaira Saadiq and Sheikh Afsa, two medical college friends from Kashmir Valley studying in Iran consider themselves lucky to be rescued by the Government of India from the war-torn Iran. Moving from one city to another and crossing the Iran border to Armenia took these girls four days to be finally airlifted by an Indian Aircraft to return to their native country.&nbsp;The Kashmiri students upon their arrival in Kashmir Valley appreciated the Indian embassy for arranging transport to airports and ensuring security amid the conflict. They also showed immense gratitude for the coordination of the central government. The leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was praised for their herculean efforts that enabled the students to return safely to their country.''I am feeling very good and calm. It was a very hectic journey for us. I am feeling very calm to see my parents and be back home. 110 percent efforts were made by the Indian government to evacuate us. It did everything in their control to evacuate us from Iran. We are very thankful to them. We did not get any sleep, and sometimes we didn't get food or water, but we carried on with the hope of seeing our parents and we made it. It's a very bad situation, we didn't feel that we would survive such a situation, but we did, '' Humaira Saadiq, a student said.&nbsp;Many students were sent to Kashmir via buses arranged by the Omar Abdullah government while many took flights to reach home today only. These students have gone through a lot of traumas during the last four days moving from one city to another and crossing the Iran border. They are relieved to be back home.&nbsp;''I am relieved that I am home. Our family was in so much distress due to us. We were trying to calm them and telling them that we were safe, but our parents had a lot of concern. We are so happy to be finally with them and feel very very safe. Mentally we are so much distressed due to the situation. The last few days were very disturbing. We were so terrified after seeing the bombings. The MEA did so much for us, '' said another student Sheikh Afsa.&nbsp;The students who took buses from Delhi to Kashmir will reach the valley on June 20. Although there are over a thousand students who are still stuck in Iran and waiting to be evacuated by the MEA.&nbsp;

The Kashmiri students upon their arrival in Kashmir Valley appreciated the Indian embassy for arranging transport to airports and ensuring security amid the conflict.

The Ministry of External Affairs and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had once again proven that they care for every citizen of the country. Over 110 Indian students which included 94 Kashmiri students were evacuated from the war zone to India and many of them have already reached Kashmir. Humaira Saadiq and Sheikh Afsa, two medical college friends from Kashmir Valley studying in Iran consider themselves lucky to be rescued by the Government of India from the war-torn Iran. Moving from one city to another and crossing the Iran border to Armenia took these girls four days to be finally airlifted by an Indian Aircraft to return to their native country. The Kashmiri students upon their arrival in Kashmir Valley appreciated the Indian embassy for arranging transport to airports and ensuring security amid the conflict. They also showed immense gratitude for the coordination of the central government. The leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was praised for their herculean efforts that enabled the students to return safely to their country. ''I am feeling very good and calm. It was a very hectic journey for us. I am feeling very calm to see my parents and be back home. 110 percent efforts were made by the Indian government to evacuate us. It did everything in their control to evacuate us from Iran. We are very thankful to them. We did not get any sleep, and sometimes we didn't get food or water, but we carried on with the hope of seeing our parents and we made it. It's a very bad situation, we didn't feel that we would survive such a situation, but we did, '' Humaira Saadiq, a student said. Many students were sent to Kashmir via buses arranged by the Omar Abdullah government while many took flights to reach home today only. These students have gone through a lot of traumas during the last four days moving from one city to another and crossing the Iran border. They are relieved to be back home. ''I am relieved that I am home. Our family was in so much distress due to us. We were trying to calm them and telling them that we were safe, but our parents had a lot of concern. We are so happy to be finally with them and feel very very safe. Mentally we are so much distressed due to the situation. The last few days were very disturbing. We were so terrified after seeing the bombings. The MEA did so much for us, '' said another student Sheikh Afsa. The students who took buses from Delhi to Kashmir will reach the valley on June 20. Although there are over a thousand students who are still stuck in Iran and waiting to be evacuated by the MEA.

The Kashmiri students upon their arrival in Kashmir Valley appreciated the Indian embassy for arranging transport to airports and ensuring security amid the conflict.

Kashmiri students evacuated from Iran arrive in Valley, thankful to Modi government for swift evacuation

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth bickered with some Democratic senators who grilled him at a congressional hearing Wednesday about the Trump administration’s latest military actions.Hegseth, a former Fox News host, got into a heated exchange with Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., who questioned him over the military’s authority to arrest and detain protesters. “It’s sort of amusing the extent to which the speculation is out there,” Hegseth said before the Senate Armed Services Committee.&nbsp;“So what is the order? Then list it out for us. List it out for us. Be a man. Did you authorise them to detain or arrest?,” said Slotkin, a former CIA analyst who served in Iraq, and then questioned Hegseth about the possibility of an order given for the military to use lethal force against protesters.“I’m just asking the question. Don’t laugh,” Slotkin said after Hegseth brushed off the question.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Exchange on if an order has been given to shoot at unarmed protesters. <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecDef</a> Pete Hegseth: &quot;What is that based on?&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/SenatorSlotkin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenatorSlotkin</a>: &quot;It is based on Donald Trump giving that order to your predecessor...he had more guts and balls than you...he wrote that in his book…&quot;… <a href="https://t.co/rSW6VFOH6R">pic.twitter.com/rSW6VFOH6R</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1935376604261232689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“What is that based on? What evidence do you have that that order has ever been given?” Hegseth responded.Slotkin cited his predecessor, Mark Esper’s memoir where he claimed Trump inquired if the military could shoot protesters who demonstrated in the streets during the 2020 George Floyd protests.“He had more guts and balls than you because he said, I’m not going to send in a uniformed military to do something that I know in my gut isn’t right … You’re pooh-poohing this,” the senator said.Hegseth then testified that there was “zero indication that an order was given to shoot protesters and that has not happened.”&nbsp;<h2>Grilled on social media influencer Laura Loomer’s role&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Hegseth responded similarly when questioned by Sen. Jacky Rosen, earlier in the hearing.Rosen asked about the firings of several top national security officials, including the director of the National Security Agency, Gen. Timothy Haugh, that were allegedly done at the request of far-right social media influencer Laura Loomer.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecDef</a> Pete Hegseth: &quot;I believe your time is up, Senator.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/SenJackyRosen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SenJackyRosen</a>: &quot;It is not up to you to tell me when my time is up! You&#39;re either feckless or complicit. You&#39;re not in control of your department...I do not appreciate the smirk, sir. You are the Secretary of Defense.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/swTjkPCVJX">pic.twitter.com/swTjkPCVJX</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1935371245391909180?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“She’s been denounced even by Republicans, and the idea is that any leaders within our agency responsible for our nation’s security, somebody would be dismissed based on the advice of a social media influencer,” Rosen said.&nbsp;Hegseth reiterated that the panel should not be “believing everything you read in the media”.“I don’t discuss who I talk about anything with, but ultimately, this is my decision and he serves at the pleasure of the president and that’s why he’s no longer there,” he said.“Do you believe it’s appropriate for social media to influence personnel decisions in your department, yes or no?” Rosen asked, but the time had expired by then.Hegseth took a beat, and said, “I believe your time is up.”Rosen pushed back.“Oh, it is not up to you to tell me when my time is up. I am going to say, Mr. Secretary, you’re either feckless or complicit. You’re not in control of your department,” she replied. “You [are] unserious. ... I yield back and I don’t appreciate the smirk, sir. You are the secretary of defense.”

Hegseth got into a heated exchange with Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who questioned him over the military’s authority to arrest and detain protesters. “It’s sort of amusing the extent to which the speculation is out there,” Hegseth said before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth bickered with some Democratic senators who grilled him at a congressional hearing Wednesday about the Trump administration’s latest military actions. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, got into a heated exchange with Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., who questioned him over the military’s authority to arrest and detain protesters. “It’s sort of amusing the extent to which the speculation is out there,” Hegseth said before the Senate Armed Services Committee. “So what is the order? Then list it out for us. List it out for us. Be a man. Did you authorise them to detain or arrest?,” said Slotkin, a former CIA analyst who served in Iraq, and then questioned Hegseth about the possibility of an order given for the military to use lethal force against protesters. “I’m just asking the question. Don’t laugh,” Slotkin said after Hegseth brushed off the question.

Hegseth got into a heated exchange with Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who questioned him over the military’s authority to arrest and detain protesters. “It’s sort of amusing the extent to which the speculation is out there,” Hegseth said before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

US Def Secretary Hegseth spars with Democratic senators during heated hearing, gets hammered

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (June 19) announced the two-fold goal in the Iran war as the Israel-Iran continues for over a week now, attacking nuclear facilities and military officials. Netanyahu vowed to "remove" the nuclear and ballistic missile threat posed by Iran, on the seventh day of war between the arch-foes."We are committed to destroying the nuclear threat, the threat of nuclear annihilation against Israel," Netanyahu told reporters in the southern city of Beersheba, where a hospital was hit during an Iranian missile attack.<h2>What are those two-fold goals?</h2>Israeli PM Netanyahu stressed that the goal is twofold, nuclear and ballistic missile."Our goal is twofold -– nuclear, ballistic missile. We're going to remove them. We are in the process of completing the (removal of) this threat," he said.He also said that Israel is eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a nuclear weapon.<h2>Trump knows the game</h2>Netanyahu praised US President Donald Trump for participating in defending Israel, saying that it depends on him whether he wants to join the Israel-Iran war.When asked about the US joining Israel in the Iran war, Netanyahu said, it “is a decision for President Trump.”“He will do what is good for America, and I will do what’s good for Israel,” Netanyahu said, adding that the US president “knows the game.”The Israeli PM also appreciated the US's participation in defending Israel in the ongoing war.<h2>'No one is immune'</h2>When asked about Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Netanyahu said that he would not rule out a strike on the Iranian leader.“No one is immune,” Netanyahu said. “All the options are open", adding, "It’s best not to speak about this in the press.”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.&nbsp;

Netanyahu said that Israel is eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a nuclear weapon.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (June 19) announced the two-fold goal in the Iran war as the Israel-Iran continues for over a week now, attacking nuclear facilities and military officials. Netanyahu vowed to "remove" the nuclear and ballistic missile threat posed by Iran, on the seventh day of war between the arch-foes. "We are committed to destroying the nuclear threat, the threat of nuclear annihilation against Israel," Netanyahu told reporters in the southern city of Beersheba, where a hospital was hit during an Iranian missile attack. What are those two-fold goals? Israeli PM Netanyahu stressed that the goal is twofold, nuclear and ballistic missile. "Our goal is twofold -– nuclear, ballistic missile. We're going to remove them. We are in the process of completing the (removal of) this threat," he said. He also said that Israel is eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a nuclear weapon. Trump knows the game Netanyahu praised US President Donald Trump for participating in defending Israel, saying that it depends on him whether he wants to join the Israel-Iran war. When asked about the US joining Israel in the Iran war, Netanyahu said, it “is a decision for President Trump.” “He will do what is good for America, and I will do what’s good for Israel,” Netanyahu said, adding that the US president “knows the game.” The Israeli PM also appreciated the US's participation in defending Israel in the ongoing war. 'No one is immune' When asked about Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Netanyahu said that he would not rule out a strike on the Iranian leader. “No one is immune,” Netanyahu said. “All the options are open", adding, "It’s best not to speak about this in the press.” 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.

Netanyahu said that Israel is eliminating the Iranian nuclear threat, and Tehran will not obtain a nuclear weapon.

Israel's TWO-FOLD GOAL in Iran war: Here's what Netanyahu WARNED after a week of Israel-Iran war

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'

Hurricane Erick made landfall in the western Mexican state of Oaxaca on Thursday (June 19), the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said, having weakened to a "major" Category 3 storm that is likely to cause massive flooding and landslides. The storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 125 miles (205 kilometers) per hour as it hit just east of Punta Maldonado, the NHC said in a post on social media. By 1200 GMT, Erick was moving northwest at a speed of nearly nine miles (15 kilometers) per hour, and was expected to continue making its way inland over southern Mexico through the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;Heavy rainfall was expected to cause "life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain" in Oaxaca and Guerrero states, the NHC said. A "life-threatening storm surge" was expected to cause coastal flooding near where the storm made landfall. "Erick is expected to rapidly weaken over the mountains of Mexico, and the system is likely to dissipate tonight or early Friday," the center's advisory added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mexican authorities said they were also expecting heavy rain in southernmost state Chiapas. President Claudia Sheinbaum urged people to avoid going out and advised those living in low-lying areas or near rivers to move to shelters. In Acapulco, a major port and resort city famous for its nightlife, police with bullhorns walked the beach and drove around town warning residents and holidaymakers of the storm's arrival.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some shops boarded up their windows and operators of tourist boats brought their vessels ashore. Rainfall began in the late afternoon after a sunny day on Wednesday. About 250 miles (400 kilometers) south of Acapulco, the city of Puerto Escondido and its 30,000 inhabitants braced for the hurricane's effects. &nbsp;&nbsp;Restaurants were already closed despite tourists unwilling to give up their vacations, an AFP journalist noted from the scene.&nbsp;"They say it's going to hit this side of the coast, so we're taking precautions to avoid having any regrets later," Adalberto Ruiz, a 55-year-old fisherman sheltering his boat, told AFP.&nbsp;&nbsp;Laura Velazquez, national coordinator of civil protection, said the government was using patrols and social media to warn people.&nbsp;Some 2,000 temporary shelters have been set up in Chiapas, Guerrero and Oaxaca, and hundreds of troops and electricity workers have been deployed to help with any clean-up efforts. Local authorities have suspended classes and closed ports along the coast, including the port of Acapulco, to shipping.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mexico sees major storms every year, usually between May and November, on both its Pacific and Atlantic coasts. In October 2023, Acapulco was pummeled by Hurricane Otis, a powerful Category 5 storm that killed at least 50 people. Hurricane John, another Category 3 storm that hit Acapulco in September last year, caused about 15 deaths.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

Hurricane Erick made landfall in the western Mexican state of Oaxaca on Thursday (June 19), the US National Hurricane Center said, having weakened to a "major" Category 3 storm that is likely to cause massive flooding and landslides. 

Hurricane Erick made landfall in the western Mexican state of Oaxaca on Thursday (June 19), the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said, having weakened to a "major" Category 3 storm that is likely to cause massive flooding and landslides. The storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 125 miles (205 kilometers) per hour as it hit just east of Punta Maldonado, the NHC said in a post on social media. By 1200 GMT, Erick was moving northwest at a speed of nearly nine miles (15 kilometers) per hour, and was expected to continue making its way inland over southern Mexico through the day. Heavy rainfall was expected to cause "life-threatening flooding and mudslides, especially in areas of steep terrain" in Oaxaca and Guerrero states, the NHC said. A "life-threatening storm surge" was expected to cause coastal flooding near where the storm made landfall. "Erick is expected to rapidly weaken over the mountains of Mexico, and the system is likely to dissipate tonight or early Friday," the center's advisory added. Mexican authorities said they were also expecting heavy rain in southernmost state Chiapas. President Claudia Sheinbaum urged people to avoid going out and advised those living in low-lying areas or near rivers to move to shelters. In Acapulco, a major port and resort city famous for its nightlife, police with bullhorns walked the beach and drove around town warning residents and holidaymakers of the storm's arrival. Some shops boarded up their windows and operators of tourist boats brought their vessels ashore. Rainfall began in the late afternoon after a sunny day on Wednesday. About 250 miles (400 kilometers) south of Acapulco, the city of Puerto Escondido and its 30,000 inhabitants braced for the hurricane's effects. Restaurants were already closed despite tourists unwilling to give up their vacations, an AFP journalist noted from the scene. "They say it's going to hit this side of the coast, so we're taking precautions to avoid having any regrets later," Adalberto Ruiz, a 55-year-old fisherman sheltering his boat, told AFP. Laura Velazquez, national coordinator of civil protection, said the government was using patrols and social media to warn people. Some 2,000 temporary shelters have been set up in Chiapas, Guerrero and Oaxaca, and hundreds of troops and electricity workers have been deployed to help with any clean-up efforts. Local authorities have suspended classes and closed ports along the coast, including the port of Acapulco, to shipping. Mexico sees major storms every year, usually between May and November, on both its Pacific and Atlantic coasts. In October 2023, Acapulco was pummeled by Hurricane Otis, a powerful Category 5 storm that killed at least 50 people. Hurricane John, another Category 3 storm that hit Acapulco in September last year, caused about 15 deaths. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hurricane Erick made landfall in the western Mexican state of Oaxaca on Thursday (June 19), the US National Hurricane Center said, having weakened to a "major" Category 3 storm that is likely to cause massive flooding and landslides.&nbsp;

Category 3 Hurricane Erick makes landfall in Mexico's Oaxaca

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (June 19) praised US President Donald Trump for participating in defending Israel, saying that it depends on him whether he wants to join the Israel-Iran war.The Israeli PM visited Soroka Hospital, and while talking to reporters, said that Trump knows the game.When asked about the US joining Israel in the Iran war, Netanyahu said, it “is a decision for President Trump.”“He will do what is good for America, and I will do what’s good for Israel,” Netanyahu said, adding that the US president “knows the game.”He further appreciated the United States' participation in defending Israel in the ongoing war.Israel has the ability to carry out the entire mission by itself if needed, the Israeli PM stressed, adding, "At the end of this operation, there will be no nuclear threat on Israel, and there won’t be a ballistic threat.”"We are committed to destroying the nuclear threat, the threat of nuclear annihilation against Israel," he said.Moreover, Netanyahu said that all of us are paying a personal price in the war, "and that hasn’t missed my family as well — my son canceled a wedding.”<h2>'No one is immune'</h2>Israeli PM Netanyahu said that he would not rule out a strike on Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.“No one is immune,” Netanyahu said. “All the options are open", adding, "It’s best not to speak about this in the press.”However, Defence Minister Israel Katz has been publicly threatening the Iranian supreme leader for days now.On Wednesday midnight, dozens of people were injured in the strike on the Soroka Medical Centre, which Iran said targeted a command-and-control centre nearby.The Israel and Iran war 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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

When asked about the US joining Israel in the Iran war, Netanyahu said, it “is a decision for President Trump.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (June 19) praised US President Donald Trump for participating in defending Israel, saying that it depends on him whether he wants to join the Israel-Iran war. The Israeli PM visited Soroka Hospital, and while talking to reporters, said that Trump knows the game. When asked about the US joining Israel in the Iran war, Netanyahu said, it “is a decision for President Trump.” “He will do what is good for America, and I will do what’s good for Israel,” Netanyahu said, adding that the US president “knows the game.” He further appreciated the United States' participation in defending Israel in the ongoing war. Israel has the ability to carry out the entire mission by itself if needed, the Israeli PM stressed, adding, "At the end of this operation, there will be no nuclear threat on Israel, and there won’t be a ballistic threat.” "We are committed to destroying the nuclear threat, the threat of nuclear annihilation against Israel," he said. Moreover, Netanyahu said that all of us are paying a personal price in the war, "and that hasn’t missed my family as well — my son canceled a wedding.” 'No one is immune' Israeli PM Netanyahu said that he would not rule out a strike on Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. “No one is immune,” Netanyahu said. “All the options are open", adding, "It’s best not to speak about this in the press.” However, Defence Minister Israel Katz has been publicly threatening the Iranian supreme leader for days now. On Wednesday midnight, dozens of people were injured in the strike on the Soroka Medical Centre, which Iran said targeted a command-and-control centre nearby. The Israel and Iran war 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.

When asked about the US joining Israel in the Iran war, Netanyahu said, it “is a decision for President Trump.”

'Trump knows the game': Netanyahu says US can decide to join Iran war but Israel can carry out entire mission alone

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

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

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

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

When President Donald Trump issued a dramatic message to Iran this week: “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!” it wasn’t just a policy threat. It was a phrase deeply rooted in American military history, one that has only been invoked during the most extreme wartime confrontations: the Civil War and World War II.&nbsp;The United States has demanded “unconditional surrender” only a handful of times, and when it has, it meant complete capitulation; no negotiations, no guarantees for the losing side. Trump’s use of the phrase now, in the midst of escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, raises the stakes far beyond the usual bounds of diplomacy.&nbsp;Where the Phrase Comes From&nbsp;The first prominent American use of “unconditional surrender” came during the Civil War. In 1862, Union General Ulysses S. Grant demanded the unconditional and immediate surrender of Confederate forces at Fort Donelson, Tennessee. The phrase became so closely associated with him that he earned the nickname “Unconditional Surrender” Grant. However, even later in that war, terms of surrender, such as those offered to Robert E. Lee at Appomattox, were far more lenient and aimed at reconciliation. But the term entered global politics in a more lasting way during World War II. At the Casablanca Conference in January 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill announced that the Allied powers would accept nothing less than the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. The message was simple: the Axis powers would not be allowed to bargain their way out of defeat.&nbsp;That commitment was reaffirmed in the 1945 Potsdam Declaration, which demanded that Japan surrender unconditionally or face “prompt and utter destruction.” Japan initially rejected the demand, prompting the U.S. to drop atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Days later, Japan did surrender, fully and without conditions. Germany had already done so in May 1945, bringing an end to the European theater.&nbsp;What About Modern Conflicts?&nbsp;In the decades since World War II, the United States has fought numerous wars, but it has almost never used the phrase “unconditional surrender.”&nbsp;In Korea, Vietnam, and both Iraq wars, U.S. policy objectives were more limited. The Korean War ended in a ceasefire. Vietnam ended in withdrawal. In 1991, after pushing Iraqi forces out of Kuwait, the U.S. allowed Saddam Hussein to remain in power under ceasefire terms. Even in the 2003 Iraq War, which resulted in the fall of Saddam, the U.S. did not formally demand or receive an unconditional surrender. Instead, Saddam was given an ultimatum to leave the country, and the invasion proceeded when he refused.The language of modern warfare has emphasized diplomacy, strategic deterrence, and negotiated transitions; not total, no-conditions defeat. President Trump’s revival of the phrase&nbsp;&nbsp;That’s what makes Trump’s use of “unconditional surrender” in 2025 so significant and so rare. The message came shortly after a Situation Room meeting with national security advisers, as the U.S. weighed options in response to Iran’s confrontation with Israel. While the administration has remained vague on next steps, Trump’s public language was blunt: Iran must surrender completely, or face the consequences.&nbsp;President Trump’s use of the phrase may be designed to project strength. But its historical weight cannot be ignored.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The United States has demanded “unconditional surrender” only a handful of times, and when it has, it meant complete capitulation; no negotiations, no guarantees for the losing side. 

When President Donald Trump issued a dramatic message to Iran this week: “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!” it wasn’t just a policy threat. It was a phrase deeply rooted in American military history, one that has only been invoked during the most extreme wartime confrontations: the Civil War and World War II. The United States has demanded “unconditional surrender” only a handful of times, and when it has, it meant complete capitulation; no negotiations, no guarantees for the losing side. Trump’s use of the phrase now, in the midst of escalating conflict between Iran and Israel, raises the stakes far beyond the usual bounds of diplomacy. Where the Phrase Comes From The first prominent American use of “unconditional surrender” came during the Civil War. In 1862, Union General Ulysses S. Grant demanded the unconditional and immediate surrender of Confederate forces at Fort Donelson, Tennessee. The phrase became so closely associated with him that he earned the nickname “Unconditional Surrender” Grant. However, even later in that war, terms of surrender, such as those offered to Robert E. Lee at Appomattox, were far more lenient and aimed at reconciliation. But the term entered global politics in a more lasting way during World War II. At the Casablanca Conference in January 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill announced that the Allied powers would accept nothing less than the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. The message was simple: the Axis powers would not be allowed to bargain their way out of defeat. That commitment was reaffirmed in the 1945 Potsdam Declaration, which demanded that Japan surrender unconditionally or face “prompt and utter destruction.” Japan initially rejected the demand, prompting the U.S. to drop atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Days later, Japan did surrender, fully and without conditions. Germany had already done so in May 1945, bringing an end to the European theater. What About Modern Conflicts? In the decades since World War II, the United States has fought numerous wars, but it has almost never used the phrase “unconditional surrender.” In Korea, Vietnam, and both Iraq wars, U.S. policy objectives were more limited. The Korean War ended in a ceasefire. Vietnam ended in withdrawal. In 1991, after pushing Iraqi forces out of Kuwait, the U.S. allowed Saddam Hussein to remain in power under ceasefire terms. Even in the 2003 Iraq War, which resulted in the fall of Saddam, the U.S. did not formally demand or receive an unconditional surrender. Instead, Saddam was given an ultimatum to leave the country, and the invasion proceeded when he refused. The language of modern warfare has emphasized diplomacy, strategic deterrence, and negotiated transitions; not total, no-conditions defeat. President Trump’s revival of the phrase That’s what makes Trump’s use of “unconditional surrender” in 2025 so significant and so rare. The message came shortly after a Situation Room meeting with national security advisers, as the U.S. weighed options in response to Iran’s confrontation with Israel. While the administration has remained vague on next steps, Trump’s public language was blunt: Iran must surrender completely, or face the consequences. President Trump’s use of the phrase may be designed to project strength. But its historical weight cannot be ignored.

The United States has demanded “unconditional surrender” only a handful of times, and when it has, it meant complete capitulation; no negotiations, no guarantees for the losing side.&nbsp;

Trump revives rare wartime rhetoric: The history of ‘unconditional surrender’ and what it means now

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Thursday said that according to estimates, the army has struck two-thirds of Iran's ballistic missile launchers. For a week now, Israel has been attacking Iran's nuclear facilities and the military officials. However, Tehran retaliated and attacked Israeli regions with missiles.An Israeli military official told Reuters that the army had struck two-thirds of their ballistic missile launchers.<h2>How many does it have left?</h2>Iran is still believed to have more than 100 missile launchers, the official said.The officials said the launchers are a prime target, as they are the bottleneck for Tehran's ability to launch its thousands of missiles at Israel.Earlier today, the Israeli Air Force carried out a wave of strikes in western Iran and targeted Iranian ballistic missile infrastructure and Iranian soldiers.Some 20 IAF fighter jets were involved in the strikes.Additionally, an IAF drone also hit trucks carrying ballistic missiles as they arrived at a launch site, the Israel Defence Forces said.Hezbollah involvement would be 'bad decision'US special envoy for Syria Tom Barrack warned Lebanon's Hezbollah against getting involved in the Israel-Iran war.“I can say on behalf of President Trump… that would be a very, very, very bad decision,” Barrack said responding to a question on what the US position would be on any involvement by Hezbollah in the war.Last week as the war broke out in the Middle East, the Lebanese foreign ministry said that it was "continuing its contacts” to spare the country from being dragged into any conflict.It has now been one week since tensions between Israel and Iran erupted into open conflict. 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.Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, made his first public statement since the conflict began on Wednesday (June 18). In a message aired on national television on Wednesday, he said, “Iran will not surrender,” in response to US President Donald Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender.”

The Israeli Air Force carried out a wave of strikes in western Iran and targeted Iranian ballistic missile infrastructure and Iranian soldiers.

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Thursday said that according to estimates, the army has struck two-thirds of Iran's ballistic missile launchers. For a week now, Israel has been attacking Iran's nuclear facilities and the military officials. However, Tehran retaliated and attacked Israeli regions with missiles. An Israeli military official told Reuters that the army had struck two-thirds of their ballistic missile launchers. How many does it have left? Iran is still believed to have more than 100 missile launchers, the official said. The officials said the launchers are a prime target, as they are the bottleneck for Tehran's ability to launch its thousands of missiles at Israel. Earlier today, the Israeli Air Force carried out a wave of strikes in western Iran and targeted Iranian ballistic missile infrastructure and Iranian soldiers. Some 20 IAF fighter jets were involved in the strikes. Additionally, an IAF drone also hit trucks carrying ballistic missiles as they arrived at a launch site, the Israel Defence Forces said. Hezbollah involvement would be 'bad decision' US special envoy for Syria Tom Barrack warned Lebanon's Hezbollah against getting involved in the Israel-Iran war. “I can say on behalf of President Trump… that would be a very, very, very bad decision,” Barrack said responding to a question on what the US position would be on any involvement by Hezbollah in the war. Last week as the war broke out in the Middle East, the Lebanese foreign ministry said that it was "continuing its contacts” to spare the country from being dragged into any conflict. It has now been one week since tensions between Israel and Iran erupted into open conflict. 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. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, made his first public statement since the conflict began on Wednesday (June 18). In a message aired on national television on Wednesday, he said, “Iran will not surrender,” in response to US President Donald Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender.”

The Israeli Air Force carried out a wave of strikes in western Iran and targeted Iranian ballistic missile infrastructure and Iranian soldiers.

Israel has hit two-thirds of Iran’s missile launchers - How many are left now?

If the Strait of Hormuz is closed, much of the world could go without fuel. After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait should be closed. Esmail Kowsari, a commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said the option was 'under consideration'. Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important? Can Iran really close the strait? Here is what you should know:<h2>What is the Strait of Hormuz? Why is it strategically important?</h2>Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between Iran and Oman. The strait, only 33 kilometres across at its narrowest point, links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. It is the only sea passage for oil exports from key oil producers in the Gulf, like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Iraq and Qatar.<h2>Why is Strait of Hormuz important for global trade?</h2>Through this chokepoint passes nearly 20 per cent of the world's oil. It is estimated that 20 million barrels of petroleum liquids were transported every day through the strait in 2024. Nearly a third of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade also passes through the strait.&nbsp;A closure or disruption of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz can cause a rise in global energy prices. It can play havoc with supply chains and impact economies, particularly in Asian importers like China, India, Japan and South Korea, which together account for &nbsp;84 per cent of its crude oil shipments.Much of the Gulf oil and LNG for Europe also passes through the Strait of Homuz. These factors make the waterway strategically important for global energy security. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-us-officials-prepare-for-possible-strike-on-iran-in-coming-days-report-1750335066169/embed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-us-officials-prepare-for-possible-strike-on-iran-in-coming-days-report-1750335066169">Iran-Israel War: US Officials Prepare For Possible Strike On Iran In Coming Days: Report</a><h2>Does Iran really control Strait of Hormuz?</h2>The direct answer is, not entirely. But Iran's geographic position is along the northern coast of the Strait of Hormuz. This helps Iran exert influence on the strait. Technically, Iran can block traffic along the strait, as its narrowest point, at 21 nautical miles, is partly within its territorial waters, overlapping with Oman’s to the south.<h2>Iranian military presence near the Strait of Hormuz</h2>In theory, at least, Iran can deploy naval mines, launch ballistic and cruise missiles, suicide drones, fast attack boats, as well as Kilo and Ghadir class submarines. While it has not entirely used its military muscle in the strait, it has often threatened to do so. Iranian military's presence in the nearby strategic islands such as Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa emboldens it to disrupt shipping along the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>Has Iran ever fully closed Strait of Hormuz?</h2>No, because it's against global law on 'innocent passage', specifically the international maritime law, formally known as United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. Iran has ratified the 1982 convention, though it has not signed the treaty. Besides, Oman has control over the southern coast of the strait, which limits Iran’s ability to exert any unilateral control over the strait.<h2>Iran's threats to close or block Strait of Hormuz are not new: Past actions</h2>Even so, Iran has quite often resorted to threatening the global community with closure or blocking of the Strait of Hormuz. The threats, which are being made amid the the ongoing war with Israel, happened in 2011, 2012, 2018 and 2019 too, at the height of tensions with the US, Israel, or as a response to international sanctions. Iran conducted mine attacks on oil tankers and seized some vessels in 2019. In April 2024, it seized a container ship amid the Israel-Hamas War in Gaza.<h2>Will the Tanker War of the 1980s repeat?</h2>But the first major disruption of the Strait of Hormuz occurred during the Iran-Iraq War of 1980–1988. At the time, Iran conducted attacks on neutral oil tankers, disrupting traffic, though not entirely stopping it.&nbsp;If push comes to shove, Iran can try to hit the strait using its military capabilities around the area. But it is likely going to be one of its last options.

After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait of Hormuz should be closed. Can Iran really close the strait? 

If the Strait of Hormuz is closed, much of the world could go without fuel. After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait should be closed. Esmail Kowsari, a commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said the option was 'under consideration'. Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important? Can Iran really close the strait? Here is what you should know: What is the Strait of Hormuz? Why is it strategically important? Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between Iran and Oman. The strait, only 33 kilometres across at its narrowest point, links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. It is the only sea passage for oil exports from key oil producers in the Gulf, like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Iraq and Qatar. Why is Strait of Hormuz important for global trade? Through this chokepoint passes nearly 20 per cent of the world's oil. It is estimated that 20 million barrels of petroleum liquids were transported every day through the strait in 2024. Nearly a third of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade also passes through the strait. A closure or disruption of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz can cause a rise in global energy prices. It can play havoc with supply chains and impact economies, particularly in Asian importers like China, India, Japan and South Korea, which together account for 84 per cent of its crude oil shipments. Much of the Gulf oil and LNG for Europe also passes through the Strait of Homuz. These factors make the waterway strategically important for global energy security. https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-war-us-officials-prepare-for-possible-strike-on-iran-in-coming-days-report-1750335066169/embed Iran-Israel War: US Officials Prepare For Possible Strike On Iran In Coming Days: Report Does Iran really control Strait of Hormuz? The direct answer is, not entirely. But Iran's geographic position is along the northern coast of the Strait of Hormuz. This helps Iran exert influence on the strait. Technically, Iran can block traffic along the strait, as its narrowest point, at 21 nautical miles, is partly within its territorial waters, overlapping with Oman’s to the south. Iranian military presence near the Strait of Hormuz In theory, at least, Iran can deploy naval mines, launch ballistic and cruise missiles, suicide drones, fast attack boats, as well as Kilo and Ghadir class submarines. While it has not entirely used its military muscle in the strait, it has often threatened to do so. Iranian military's presence in the nearby strategic islands such as Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa emboldens it to disrupt shipping along the Strait of Hormuz. Has Iran ever fully closed Strait of Hormuz? No, because it's against global law on 'innocent passage', specifically the international maritime law, formally known as United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. Iran has ratified the 1982 convention, though it has not signed the treaty. Besides, Oman has control over the southern coast of the strait, which limits Iran’s ability to exert any unilateral control over the strait. Iran's threats to close or block Strait of Hormuz are not new: Past actions Even so, Iran has quite often resorted to threatening the global community with closure or blocking of the Strait of Hormuz. The threats, which are being made amid the the ongoing war with Israel, happened in 2011, 2012, 2018 and 2019 too, at the height of tensions with the US, Israel, or as a response to international sanctions. Iran conducted mine attacks on oil tankers and seized some vessels in 2019. In April 2024, it seized a container ship amid the Israel-Hamas War in Gaza. Will the Tanker War of the 1980s repeat? But the first major disruption of the Strait of Hormuz occurred during the Iran-Iraq War of 1980–1988. At the time, Iran conducted attacks on neutral oil tankers, disrupting traffic, though not entirely stopping it. If push comes to shove, Iran can try to hit the strait using its military capabilities around the area. But it is likely going to be one of its last options.

After the Israeli bombing that started on June 13, several Iranian politicians have suggested that the Strait of Hormuz should be closed. Can Iran really close the Strait?&nbsp;

Where is Strait of Hormuz? Can Iran really close it as some officials threatened amid war with Israel?

US President Donald Trump has downplayed speculations of a rift in the Grand Old Party (GOP) over possible intervention by the United States. He says his supporters are ‘more in love’ with him and he is in love with them.“My supporters are more in love with me today, and I’m more in love with them, more than they even were at election time,” the President responded when asked about a possible rift in the GOP.&nbsp;Speaking from the South Lawn, Trump said, “I may have some people that are a little unhappy now, but… I have people outside of the base who can’t believe that this is happening. They’re so happy.” He added, “My base is more in love with me now than they have ever been.”But even though Trump is showing confidence in his MAGA support base, there has been disenchantment among his fan base regarding a major US intervention in the Middle East. Republican news anchor Tucker Carlson, former White House adviser Steve Bannon, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene all have voiced concerns against US inclusion in the war, saying that this contradicts with America First policy of Trump.A recent internal survey by Economist/YouGov shows that only 19 per cent of MAGA supporters are in support of any possible intervention in the Middle East conflict.&nbsp;This is not what people voted for in 2016 or 2024,” Bannon said during a recent podcast episode. “We didn’t elect Trump to become another war president.”"My supporters are for me. My supporters are America First and Make America Great Again. My supporters don't want to see Iran have a nuclear weapon," Trump said. Trump, when asked about his decision to mobilise the US forces in the Middle East he replied with his usual ambiguity, saying he has not decided on it yet.

President Trump brushes aside growing MAGA unease over U.S. intervention plans in the Middle East, claiming his supporters are "more in love" with him than ever, even as key allies like Bannon and Greene warn of betrayal.

US President Donald Trump has downplayed speculations of a rift in the Grand Old Party (GOP) over possible intervention by the United States. He says his supporters are ‘more in love’ with him and he is in love with them. “My supporters are more in love with me today, and I’m more in love with them, more than they even were at election time,” the President responded when asked about a possible rift in the GOP. Speaking from the South Lawn, Trump said, “I may have some people that are a little unhappy now, but… I have people outside of the base who can’t believe that this is happening. They’re so happy.” He added, “My base is more in love with me now than they have ever been.” But even though Trump is showing confidence in his MAGA support base, there has been disenchantment among his fan base regarding a major US intervention in the Middle East. Republican news anchor Tucker Carlson, former White House adviser Steve Bannon, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene all have voiced concerns against US inclusion in the war, saying that this contradicts with America First policy of Trump. A recent internal survey by Economist/YouGov shows that only 19 per cent of MAGA supporters are in support of any possible intervention in the Middle East conflict. This is not what people voted for in 2016 or 2024,” Bannon said during a recent podcast episode. “We didn’t elect Trump to become another war president.” "My supporters are for me. My supporters are America First and Make America Great Again. My supporters don't want to see Iran have a nuclear weapon," Trump said. Trump, when asked about his decision to mobilise the US forces in the Middle East he replied with his usual ambiguity, saying he has not decided on it yet.

President Trump brushes aside growing MAGA unease over U.S. intervention plans in the Middle East, claiming his supporters are "more in love" with him than ever, even as key allies like Bannon and Greene warn of betrayal.

'My supporters are more in love with me than ever': Trump shrugs off GOP backlash over possible Middle East war

South Korea's nominee for spy agency director Lee Jong-seok said the US could strike North Korea with nukes if Pyongyang launched a nuclear attack against South Korea, reported Reuters. Lee made the comments during a nomination hearing in which he was asked &nbsp;whether Washington would strike the North and put Americans at risk even knowing Pyongyang has intercontinental ballistic missiles. “Yes, that is my belief,” said Lee replying to the hypothetical question.&nbsp;North Korea for long has been pursuing a nuclear programme and is said to have a stockpile of fissile materials to build atomic weapons. However, it is yet to test a missile capable of carrying nuclear warhead.&nbsp;Lee will lead South Korea’s National Intelligence Service under new liberal President Lee Jae Myung who took office on June 4.&nbsp;Is North Korea capable of attacking US?&nbsp;According to experts, Pyongyang has the capability to hit the U.S. mainland with nuclear-armed missiles, reported The Week. North Korea has developed Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the entire continental United States, the report further read. Some of the missiles have estimated ranges exceeding 15,000 km, depending on the warhead's weight.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-loses-track-of-iran-s-stockpile-of-enriched-uranium-amid-israeli-attack-does-it-pose-security-threat-1750328878393">Tehran will pay 'heavy price', warns Netanyahu after missiles hit hospital, cause severe damage</a>&nbsp;Reportedly, the North Korean army achieved this ambition in 2019. One of its ICBMs called the Hwasong‑15 has an estimated range of approximately 12,874 km and is capable of striking any part of the continental United States.&nbsp;North Korea fires multiple rockets&nbsp;Meanwhile, North Korea launched about 10 artillery rockets toward the Yellow Sea from the Sunan district near Pyongyang early Thursday, said South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).This come after South Korea, the United States and Japan held their first trilateral air exercise under the newly elected President Lee Jae-myung. &nbsp;

North Korea for long has been pursuing a nuclear programme and is said to have a stockpile of materials capable of build atomic weapons.

South Korea's nominee for spy agency director Lee Jong-seok said the US could strike North Korea with nukes if Pyongyang launched a nuclear attack against South Korea, reported Reuters. Lee made the comments during a nomination hearing in which he was asked whether Washington would strike the North and put Americans at risk even knowing Pyongyang has intercontinental ballistic missiles. “Yes, that is my belief,” said Lee replying to the hypothetical question. North Korea for long has been pursuing a nuclear programme and is said to have a stockpile of fissile materials to build atomic weapons. However, it is yet to test a missile capable of carrying nuclear warhead. Lee will lead South Korea’s National Intelligence Service under new liberal President Lee Jae Myung who took office on June 4. Is North Korea capable of attacking US? According to experts, Pyongyang has the capability to hit the U.S. mainland with nuclear-armed missiles, reported The Week. North Korea has developed Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the entire continental United States, the report further read. Some of the missiles have estimated ranges exceeding 15,000 km, depending on the warhead's weight. Also Read: Tehran will pay 'heavy price', warns Netanyahu after missiles hit hospital, cause severe damage Reportedly, the North Korean army achieved this ambition in 2019. One of its ICBMs called the Hwasong‑15 has an estimated range of approximately 12,874 km and is capable of striking any part of the continental United States. North Korea fires multiple rockets Meanwhile, North Korea launched about 10 artillery rockets toward the Yellow Sea from the Sunan district near Pyongyang early Thursday, said South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). This come after South Korea, the United States and Japan held their first trilateral air exercise under the newly elected President Lee Jae-myung.

North Korea for long has been pursuing a nuclear programme and is said to have a stockpile of materials capable of build atomic weapons.

US will strike North Korea with nukes if Seoul ever...: South spy chief

A SpaceX Starship prototype erupted into flames during a routine test at the company's facility in Tesla late Wednesday night (June 18). As it exploded, the rocket was seen bursting into a giant ball of fire during the test. The incident has raised concerns about the timeline for SpaceX's next launch attempt.The shocking video has been going viral on social media, showing the Starship 36 rocket, that was undergoing a static fire test at Elon Musk's Starbase site, and its nose suddenly burst open.Even there was a flash on the screen for a moment as the blast happened. As the light faded, a giant fireball spread across the ground while thick black smoke engulfed into the sky.This test is done as final systems check before flight. As it exploded, no injuries have been reported. &nbsp;"On Wednesday, June 18 at approximately 11 p.m. CT, the Starship preparing for the tenth flight test experienced a major anomaly while on a test stand at Starbase. A safety clear area around the site was maintained throughout the operation and all personnel are safe and accounted for," SpaceX said in a post on X.<h2>WATCH video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Insane explosion at static test for Space X Starship <a href="https://t.co/1OJacK0q4V">pic.twitter.com/1OJacK0q4V</a>&mdash; Paul Prosise (@PaulProsise) <a href="https://twitter.com/PaulProsise/status/1935553278533620157?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

SpaceX stressed there was no threat to nearby communities and urged the public to stay away from the site.It added that the Starbase team is actively working to safe the test site and the immediate surrounding area in conjunction with local officials.In a post on Facebook, the Cameron County Precinct 1 constable’s office stated that SpaceX's Ship 36 "suffered a catastrophic failure and exploded" shortly after 11 pm.“Thankfully, no injuries have been reported at this time. Emergency protocols were quickly enacted, and an investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the incident,” the post added.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-spacex-learnt-from-starship-s-crash-over-the-indian-ocean-1748451011357">Also read: What SpaceX learnt from Starship’s crash over the Indian ocean?</a>

The shocking video has been going viral on social media, showing the Starship 36 rocket, that was undergoing a static fire test at Starbase site, and its nose suddenly burst open.

A SpaceX Starship prototype erupted into flames during a routine test at the company's facility in Tesla late Wednesday night (June 18). As it exploded, the rocket was seen bursting into a giant ball of fire during the test. The incident has raised concerns about the timeline for SpaceX's next launch attempt. The shocking video has been going viral on social media, showing the Starship 36 rocket, that was undergoing a static fire test at Elon Musk's Starbase site, and its nose suddenly burst open. Even there was a flash on the screen for a moment as the blast happened. As the light faded, a giant fireball spread across the ground while thick black smoke engulfed into the sky. This test is done as final systems check before flight. As it exploded, no injuries have been reported. "On Wednesday, June 18 at approximately 11 p.m. CT, the Starship preparing for the tenth flight test experienced a major anomaly while on a test stand at Starbase. A safety clear area around the site was maintained throughout the operation and all personnel are safe and accounted for," SpaceX said in a post on X. WATCH video here

The shocking video has been going viral on social media, showing the Starship 36 rocket, that was undergoing a static fire test at Elon Musk's Starbase site, and its nose suddenly burst open.

SpaceX Starship explodes into massive fireball in Texas, black smoke engulfs sky - WATCH

Israel-Iran war LIVE | It has now been one week since tensions between Israel and Iran erupted into open conflict. 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.While the United States has stated publicly that it is not participating in the attacks, it is assisting in defence efforts. American missile systems, including Patriot and THAAD, are reportedly being used to intercept Iranian drones and missiles aimed at Israel.Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, made his first public statement since the conflict began on Wednesday (June 18). In a message aired on national television on Wednesday, he said, “Iran will not surrender,” in response to US President Donald Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender.”Khamenei added, “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.”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.Follow WION's Live Coverage of the Israel-Iran war here:

Israel claimed on Saturday it has already set back Iran's presumed nuclear programme by at least two years, a day after US President Donald Trump warned that Tehran has a "maximum" of two weeks to avoid possible American air strikes. &nbsp;

Israel says delayed Iran's presumed nuclear programme by two years

Following drone sirens in the town of Ghajar, the IDF says the air force intercepted “a suspicious aerial target,” without specifying its origin. &nbsp;<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250621/image-1750474198456.jpg"></figure>

IDF says it downed ‘suspicious aerial target’ that set off drones in Ghajar

As per Iranian media reports, explosions were heard in the Isfahan area. More information awaited.

Explosion heard in Iran's Isfahan - Iranian media

Images of Iranian missiles light up the sky over Tel Aviv and the central Israeli city of Modiin, as Israel and Iran engage in direct military exchanges following years of shadow war through proxies and covert attacks. The escalation has raised concerns about a broader regional confrontation in the Middle East.

Israel-Iran war LIVE | Iranian missiles seen over Tel Aviv, Modiin

“The Air Force has now begun a wave of attacks against missile storage and launch infrastructure in central Iran,” IDF said. &nbsp;

Israel-Iran war LIVE | IDF says Air Force has started attacks against Iran

“Israeli air defenses are confronting ballistic missiles launched at Israeli civilians over Modiin and Tel Aviv in central Israel,” Israel military said.

Israel-Iran war LIVE | Israel military says missiles launched from Iran towards Israel

Israel has estimated that its military operations against Iran have delayed Tehran’s potential to develop a nuclear weapon by “at least two or three years”, Israel’s foreign minister said in an interview published on Saturday (Jun 21). Gideon Saar told the German newspaper Bild that Israeli strikes, which targeted hundreds of nuclear and military sites, have shown “very significant” results. The attacks have also killed Iran’s top military commanders and nuclear scientists.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-won-t-stop-until-we-remove-threat-israeli-fm-says-delayed-iran-s-nuclear-bomb-by-at-least-two-or-three-years-1750458846468">Read more here.</a>

Israel-Iran war LIVE | Israeli FM says delayed Iran’s nuclear bomb by ‘at least two or three years’

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jun 20) said that European powers would not be able to help end the conflict between Israel and Iran. This comes after British, German, French and EU top diplomats met an Iranian official in Geneva. Trump dismissed the chances of Europe making a difference, saying that the talks between Britain, France, Germany and EU diplomats and Tehran's foreign minister “didn't help.”“Iran doesn’t want to speak to Europe. They want to speak to us. Europe is not going to be able to help in this,” Trump told reporters as he arrived in Morristown, New Jersey. When asked whether he would ask Israel to stop its attacks as Iran had asked, Trump said it was “very hard to make that request right now.”<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-doesn-t-want-to-speak-to-europe-trump-says-european-powers-won-t-be-able-to-help-in-israel-iran-conflict-1750448971515">Read more here.</a>

Israel-Iran war LIVE | ‘Iran doesn’t want to speak to Europe’: Trump says European powers can’t help in ending Israel-Iran conflict

President Donald Trump said Friday that Iran had a "maximum" of two weeks to avoid possible US air strikes, day after saying that he would make a decision within a fortnight on whether to take military action."I'm giving them a period of time, and I would say two weeks would be the maximum," Trump told reporters said when asked if he could decide to strike Iran before that.

Israel-Iran war LIVE | Trump says two weeks is 'maximum' for Iran decision

“15 fighter jets and more than 30 weapons: The IDF completed another wave of attacks in Iran. About 15 Air Force fighter jets have completed a wave of strikes on missile launch sites in western Iran in recent hours,” IDF posts on X.

Israel-Iran war LIVE | IDF completed another wave of attacks in Iran

US President Donald Trump said Friday that European powers would not be able to help end the Iran-Israel war, after British, German, French and EU top diplomats met an Iranian official in Geneva."Iran doesn't want to speak to Europe. They want to speak to us. Europe is not going to be able to help in this," Trump told reporters as he arrived in Morristown, New Jersey.

Israel-Iran war LIVE | Trump says Europeans unlikely to be helpful on ending Iran-Israel war

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Friday he has secured Israel's pledge to safeguard Russian personnel at Iran's Russia-built nuclear power plant and that he has reached out to both sides to try to end the week-old conflict. Putin suggested Russia has proposed "some ideas” for a possible settlement between Iran and Israel that are currently being discussed. He said Moscow asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ensure the security of Russian personnel who are working to construct two more reactors at the nuclear power plant in Iran’s port of Bushehr and that he also raised the issue with US President Donald Trump.

Israel-Iran war LIVE | Putin says Russia has shared peace proposals with Israel and Iran 

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he has secured Israel's pledge to safeguard Russian personnel at Iran's Russia-built nuclear power plant and that he has reached out to both sides to try to end the week-old conflict. Putin suggested Russia has proposed "some ideas” for a possible settlement between Iran and Israel that are currently being discussed. He said Moscow asked Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ensure the security of Russian personnel who are working to construct two more reactors at the nuclear power plant in Iran’s port of Bushehr and that he also raised the issue with US President Donald Trump.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Putin says Russia has shared peace proposals with Israel and Iran

A flight carrying 290 Indian students, who were evacuated from Iran, has landed in New Delhi, the J&amp;K Students Association said. This flight marks the second one that reached India as part of the government's efforts to evacuate Indian nationals and students from Iran amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East. In a post on X, the student association thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the External Affairs Ministry, and all concerned authorities for timely evacuating the students.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-flight-carrying-290-indian-students-evacuated-from-iran-lands-in-delhi-watch-1750444930747">Read the full story here</a>

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Second flight carrying 290 Indian students evacuated from Iran lands in Delhi | WATCH

A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Iran's Semnan late on Friday (June 20), sending tremors through the region. According to reports from the GFZ, a magnitude 5.2 earthquake occurred around 35 km southwest of Semnan at 5.49 local time. The earthquake's depth was recorded at 10 km, indicating a relatively shallow tremor that could possibly cause major damage.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-of-5-2-magnitude-strikes-near-iran-s-semnan-1750444649213">Read the full story here</a>

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Earthquake of 5.2 magnitude strikes near Iran's Semnan

Series of blasts were heard in Tehran on Friday (June 20), news agency AFP reported.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Series of blasts heard in Tehran

Iraqi UN Ambassador on Friday said that 50 Israeli warplanes planes violated Iran's airspace and territorial integrity.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: 50 Israeli warplanes planes violated airspace and territorial integrity: Iraqi UN ambassador 

Thousands of Yemenis gathered in Sanaa on Friday (June 20) to express solidarity with Iran after Israeli attacks on the country. Iran said on Friday it would not discuss the future of its nuclear programme while under attack by Israel, as Europe tried to coax Tehran back into negotiations and the United States considers whether to get involved in the conflict. A week into its campaign, Israel said it had struck dozens of military targets overnight, including missile production sites, a research body involved in nuclear weapons development in Tehran and military facilities in western and central Iran.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Thousands rally to denounce Israeli attacks on Iran in Yemen's capital

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited an IDF Intelligence base, together with Minister Ron Dermer; his Military Secretary, Maj.-Gen. Roman Gofman; National Security Council Director Tzachi Hanegbi; and the Head of IDF Intelligence, Maj.-Gen. Shlomi Binder.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20250620/image-1750431602064.jpg">

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Netanyahu visits and IDF Intelligence base

The head of the UN atomic watchdog warned Friday that an Israeli strike on Iran's southern nuclear plant of Bushehr could trigger a regional disaster, adding that radiation had not yet been detected in the conflict. "Countries of the region have reached out directly to me over the past few hours to express their concerns, and I want to make it absolutely and completely clear -- in case of an attack on the Bushehr nuclear power plant, a direct hit would result in a very high release of radioactivity," Rafael Grossi told the UN Security Council.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: IAEA chief warns strike on Iran's Bushehr plant would create nuclear disaster

The UK on Friday (June 20) said it had withdrawn its embassy staff from Iran on the eighth day of the war with Israel, as the US mulled whether to enter the conflict."Due to the current security situation, we have taken the precautionary measure to temporarily withdraw our UK staff from Iran. Our embassy continues to operate remotely," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Withdrawing embassy staff from Iran, says UK

Switzerland announced on Friday announced the temporary closure of its embassy in Tehran, adding that it would continue to fulfil its role representing US interests in Iran. "In view of the intensity of military operations in Iran and the highly unstable situation on the ground, the FDFA has decided to temporarily close the Swiss embassy in Tehran," the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: Switzerland temporarily closes its embassy in Iran

The escalating Iran-Israel confrontation is quickly reaching "the point of no return", Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday, as Washington mulled the prospect of entering the war. "Unfortunately, the genocide in Gaza and the conflict with Iran are quickly reaching the point of no return. This madness must end as soon as possible," he said, warning the consequences could affect the region, Europe and Asia "for many years".

Israel-Iran war LIVE | Iran-Israel conflict 'reaching point of no return': Erdogan

European foreign ministers must take a "firm stance" in talks on Friday with their Iranian counterpart on Tehran's nuclear programme, Israel's ambassador to the UN in Geneva said. "We expect the European foreign ministers to take a firm stance vis-a-vis Iran and demand that there is a complete rollback of the nuclear programme, the dismantling of ballistic missile arsenal and programme, and putting an end to Iran's regional terrorist activities and active support for its terrorist proxies," Daniel Meron told journalists outside the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

Israel-Iran war LIVE: 'Europeans must take 'firm stance' with Iran in nuclear talks', says Israeli ambassador

Speaking at UNHRC, Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said that ‘it was betrayal of democracy.’ He also said, "Our nuclear facilities have been targeted, Israel's attack on nuclear-facilities are grave war crimes.”

 Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi speaks at UNHRC

Sirens were triggered nationwide amid an Iranian missile attack; loud explosions were heard in Beersheba, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem &nbsp;

Sirens sounding in parts of Israel as Iran launches another round of ballistic missiles

Senior Iranian official has told Reuters that Iran is ready to discuss limitations on its uranium enrichment. But he has hinted at mediation via European powers stating that "Tehran is unwilling to engage with US amid Israeli attacks.&nbsp;

Iran ready to discuss limitations on its uranium enrichment: Iranian official to Reuters

Reuters reports an Iranian official saying his country is prepared to negotiate limits on uranium enrichment&nbsp;

Iranian official says his country is prepared to negotiate limits on uranium enrichment: Reuters

Israel claimed that its fighter jets conducted strikes targeting the Iranian regime's Internal Security Headquarters and the headquarters of the Internal Security Special Units in Tehran.In a statement, Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee said that the Israeli army is conducting “strikes targeting military infrastructure in western and central Iran.”

Israeli military says it is attacking military infrastructure in western and central Iran

A hospital in the Israeli town of Beersheba has been hit as Iran fired a barrage of missiles at the country, with the conflict between the two nations continuing into a seventh day.Iran said it had targeted a military site close to the Soroka hospital, not the facility itself. Israel said 271 people were injured in strikes reported across the country.

Iranian health ministry says that a Tehran hospital was hit in Israeli missile attack this morning 

In a special gesture, Iran opened airspace for evacuation flights to India. Iran's deputy chief of mission to India Mohammad Javad Hosseini speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal said,' In first phase, Indians were moved from Tehran to Mashhad via Qom. 1000 Indian nationals in Mashhad, made arrangement with Indian embassy in Iran. They allocated Mahaan Airlines. First flight will arrive tonight'

In a special gesture, Iran opens airspace for India evacuation 

&nbsp;Iran will likely be a topic of discussion at next week's NATO summit, a German government spokesperson said during a news conference on Friday (June 20)."We do not comment on allies' possible attack plans," government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius said, referring to U.S. President Donald Trump saying he would decide within two weeks whether his country would join Israeli strikes. Another spokesperson said Germany was continuing talks with Iran's Foreign Minister, which had been initiated on Monday by the E3 (Ministers from Britain, France and Germany) seeking a path back to diplomacy over Iran's contested nuclear program.

Iran likely to be discussed at NATO summit, German government spokesperson says

The Iran-Israel air war could spark a surge in migration that would affect Europe and the region, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan warned Friday. "The spiral of violence triggered by Israel's attacks could harm the region and Europe in terms of migration and the possibility of nuclear leakage," his office quoted him as saying in a phone conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Iran-Israel war could have 'harmful' migration impact on Europe, Erdogan warns

Images released by the Israeli Navy show what it says are more than 1,500 Israelis disembarking a passenger ship upon their arrival from Cyprus to the Port of Ashdod as part of the Ministry of Transportation's Operation "Safe Return"

First boat carrying 1,500 stranded Israelis docks in Israel

Iran's deputy chief of mission to India Mohammad Javad Hosseini said that three special flights from Mashhad to bring back Indians to Delhi

Three special flights from Mashhad to bring back Indians to Delhi

Air Force fighter jets, under precise intelligence guidance from the Intelligence Branch, have in recent days attacked the Iranian regime's Internal Security Headquarters and the headquarters of the Internal Security Special Units located in the Tehran area. The Internal Security mechanisms are part of the Iranian regime's military bodies, the IDF says

IDF Spokesperson says that it has attacked Iranian regime's internal security headquarters in Tehran

During a visit to the Paris Air Show, French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirms France's position on Iran's escalating conflict with Israel, emphasising the urgent need to resume comprehensive negotiations.

France's Macron urges diplomatic path on Iran

A pro-Palestinian group has targeted an RAF base and damaged two military aircraft in what the Ministry of Defence (MoD) branded an act of “vandalism”. Palestine Action posted on X to say it had broken into RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire.

Pro-Palestinian activists damage planes at UK military base 

Dozens of protesters staged a demonstration in Kuala Lumpur, on Friday, against the United States' support for Israel during the war against Hamas in Gaza and its attacks on Iran. Marching to the U.S. Embassy, after Friday afternoon prayers, they carried flags and posters calling for Netanyahu's arrest and for freeing Palestine and the end of Israeli occupation.

Malaysian protest in support of Iran and Palestinians

The Iranian ambassador to Germany Majid Nili Ahmadabadi made the appeal before leaving for Geneva on Friday (June 20). The talks between Iran’s foreign minister and European counterparts are scheduled to begin later in the day.

Iran’s ambassador to Germany urges world leaders to 'do something' ahead of Geneva talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Friday that Tehran received multiple US messages requesting negotiations, but Iran has “nothing to say”.“We have no negotiations with anyone about our missile program,” Araghchi said in a televised interview.

US 'asked us to negotiate and we refused', says Tehran

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to address the United Nations Human Rights Council today.Araghchi "will intervene in person... at the beginning of the council's afternoon meeting" at 1300 GMT, said United Nations Human Rights Council spokesperson Pascal Sim.

Iran foreign minister to address UN Human Rights Council

More than 50 fighter jets attacked selected targets of the nuclear weapons program and industrial sites for the production of missile components in Tehran overnight, claimed Israel.

Over 50 fighter jets attacked Iran's nuclear weapons program, claims Israel

The municipality of Or Yehuda in Israel released a video on Friday (June 20) that appears to show a fragment hitting the ground after a missile from Iran was intercepted.

Missile fragment hitting the ground in Israel after interception, authorities release video

The Zionist enemy is being punished. It is being punished right now, says Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

Zionist enemy is being punished right now: Iran's Supreme leader Khamenei

Israel-Iran war LIVE | It has now been one week since tensions between Israel and Iran erupted into open conflict. The latest round of hostilities began after a series of Israeli air raids on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure last week.

Israel-Iran war LIVE | It has now been one week since tensions between Israel and Iran erupted into open conflict. 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. While the United States has stated publicly that it is not participating in the attacks, it is assisting in defence efforts. American missile systems, including Patriot and THAAD, are reportedly being used to intercept Iranian drones and missiles aimed at Israel. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, made his first public statement since the conflict began on Wednesday (June 18). In a message aired on national television on Wednesday, he said, “Iran will not surrender,” in response to US President Donald Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender.” Khamenei added, “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.” 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. Follow WION's Live Coverage of the Israel-Iran war here:

Israel-Iran war LIVE | It has now been one week since tensions between Israel and Iran erupted into open conflict. The latest round of hostilities began after a series of Israeli air raids on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure last week.

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