Update: Khamenei: Israel has made a grave mistake and will be punished for it
In his address, Iran’s Supreme Leader emphasized that the Iranian people will never forget the blood of the “martyrs” and the recent attack on their soil.
He praised the steadfast, courageous, and consistent response of the Iranian nation to what he called the “foolish and malicious aggression of the Zionist enemy.”
Khamenei also warned that “any U.S. military intervention will undoubtedly cause irreparable damage,” condemning the “threatening and absurd statements” made by Donald Trump. He stressed that the U.S. must understand that Iran will not surrender.
“The wise people who understand Iran, the Iranian nation, and its history will never speak to us in a threatening manner, because the Iranian nation will never surrender. Americans must know that any U.S. military intervention will inevitably be met with irreparable damage,” he declared.
Updated: Khamenei Address Imminent, According to Iranian State Media
Iranian state media report that a televised address by the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is expected to be broadcast any moment.
Khamenei’s last public appearance was on Friday, shortly after the onset of Israeli strikes targeting nuclear and military sites in Iran.
Updated: IDF: Over 1,100 Iranian Targets Hit Since Friday – “We Are Systematically Working to Neutralize the Nuclear Threat”
The Israeli Air Force has struck more than 1,100 Iranian targets across hundreds of coordinated attacks since Friday, according to IDF spokesperson Brigadier General Efi Defrin.
“We are acting systematically to neutralize the nuclear threat,” Defrin stated during a press briefing, emphasizing that each successive strike has compounded the damage inflicted on Iran’s ballistic missile infrastructure and air defense systems.
The Israeli military also released footage showing precision strikes on Iranian missile launchers and various military installations across the country, underscoring the scope and reach of the ongoing campaign.
Update: Iran Arrests Five Alleged Mossad Operatives for Online “Defamation” of the Islamic Republic
Iranian authorities announced the arrest of five individuals accused of operating as Mossad agents, claiming they sought to tarnish the image of the Islamic Republic through coordinated cyber activities. According to statements from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), cited by Iranian news agencies ISNA and Tasnim, the alleged operatives attempted to “spread unrest and defame the sanctity of the Islamic system” via the internet. The arrests reportedly took place in Lorestan Province in western Iran.
Following the launch of Israeli airstrikes last week, Iran’s Ministry of Transport imposed temporary internet restrictions nationwide. Access to several websites and digital platforms has since been significantly limited or entirely blocked. On Tuesday, authorities urged citizens to minimize use of internet-connected devices and exercise caution online.
Iran Will Respond to Israeli Attacks “Without Limit,” Says UN Ambassador
In a separate development, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Ali Bahreini, warned that Tehran will respond “forcefully and without restraint” to ongoing Israeli strikes. “We will show no hesitation in defending our people, our security, and our land,” he stated, underlining the seriousness of Iran’s intent to escalate if provoked further.
Update: Greece Launches Evacuation of Nationals from Iran amid Escalating Conflict
Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis announced that Greece begins today a complex operation to extract the small number of Greek nationals—along with embassy staff—still in Iran. Speaking to Mega TV, Gerapetritis stressed that the evacuation cannot be conducted by air due to current security conditions; instead, a specialised over‑land plan is in place.
The minister noted that on the previous day Greece successfully repatriated 140 citizens from war‑torn Israel via an arduous, hours‑long ground route through Egypt, employing three C‑27 and one C‑130 transport aircraft. Additional flights will be organised “if necessary,” he said, adding that the effort requires delicate coordination with both Israeli and Egyptian authorities because evacuees traverse high‑risk areas under asymmetric threats.
Gerapetritis emphasised that the Iran operation is even more challenging: “We are working to initiate their departure today. It is an exceptionally demanding exercise, but a dedicated extraction plan has been prepared.”
Meanwhile, the Israeli military has launched a new wave of strikes on greater Tehran, Reuters reported at 11:03.
Update: According to the New York Times, Israel began planning attacks on Iran as early as December, taking advantage of weakened Hezbollah and the fall of Assad’s regime in Syria, which opened an aerial corridor. In February, Prime Minister Netanyahu presented detailed plans about Iran’s nuclear program to then-President Trump. Rather than direct involvement or complete withdrawal, Trump initially took a middle path, providing intelligence support to Israel while keeping details vague. Recently, Trump’s stance shifted towards a more active role, fueled by pro-Israel media coverage, with no clear diplomatic solution in sight.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described the ongoing strikes on Tehran as a “whirlwind” toppling symbols of power, hinting at a possible collapse of the Islamic Republic as critical government, military, and nuclear sites face relentless attacks.
Update: The first repatriation flight carrying Israelis stranded abroad due to the country’s closed airspace landed Wednesday morning at Ben Gurion Airport.
The El Al-operated flight arrived from Larnaca, Cyprus, as part of the “Safe Return” operation, according to a statement by the Ministry of Transport on Telegram. Transport Minister Miri Regev emphasized that the goal is to repatriate all Israelis currently stranded overseas.
Meanwhile, FlightRadar’s recently published map illustrates the global disruption to air traffic caused by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, highlighting three major no-fly zones over some of the world’s most volatile airspaces.
Update: As the Israel–Iran conflict enters its sixth consecutive night of hostilities, the United States faces a pivotal decision on deeper involvement.
Despite high expectations, President Trump refrained from commenting following a late-night National Security Council meeting and a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Leaks suggest Trump now strongly supports continued airstrikes on Tehran and along Iran’s border, with U.S. military involvement reportedly “firmly on the table.”
Meanwhile, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei signaled a shift to total war, declaring “the battle begins,” and vowed no mercy against the “Zionist regime.” Israeli air raids struck strategic military sites in Tehran, including the Imam Hussein University linked to the IRGC. In response, Iran launched what it called the 11th wave of “Honest Promise 3,” firing medium-range Fattah-1 hypersonic ballistic missiles. While Israel claims to have intercepted most incoming projectiles and drones, the scale of the confrontation is intensifying, with both sides escalating rhetoric and operations—leaving Washington at a strategic crossroads.
Update: Iran Escalates with Hypersonic Missile Strikes as Israel Bombards Tehran in Intensifying Conflict
On the sixth night of open warfare between Iran and Israel, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced it launched hypersonic ballistic missiles—Fattah-1 models unveiled in 2023—against Israeli targets as part of “Operation Honest Promise 3.” The Guards claimed Iran now holds “full control” of the airspace over the occupied territories. In retaliation, Israeli forces carried out a wave of airstrikes on eastern Tehran, including a bombing of the Imam Hossein University, a known IRGC-affiliated institution. Ayatollah Khamenei declared, “The battle begins,” posting both in Persian and English that Iran will show “no mercy” to the Zionists.
The military escalation has prompted emergency evacuations in parts of Tehran and Tel Aviv, and the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has closed through Friday due to security concerns. With the U.S. maintaining strategic silence, reports indicate the White House is coordinating with France and the UK on a potential joint stance. Meanwhile, missile barrages and aerial bombardments continue with no signs of de-escalation.
Update: Jordan’s King Warns of Global Threat from Escalating Israel–Iran Conflict
Speaking before the European Parliament, King Abdullah II of Jordan warned that Israel’s military actions against Iran have dangerously widened regional tensions, posing a global threat. “With Israel expanding its attacks to include Iran, the boundaries of this battlefield are now unpredictable—this endangers all nations,” he stated, calling for an urgent end to the conflict.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts appear strained. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran’s commitment to diplomacy but emphasized deterrence as the immediate priority, following talks with EU counterparts. Russia criticized Israel’s reluctance to pursue a peaceful resolution, while maritime incidents near the Strait of Hormuz—amid rising missile exchanges—have further heightened global concerns over energy security and regional stability.
Update: Former U.S. President Donald Trump categorically denied reports of outreach to Iran for ceasefire negotiations, calling them “fake news” and reaffirming his administration’s uncompromising stance. His comments come amid escalating regional tensions, with G7 leaders voicing full support for Israel’s right to self-defense and labeling Iran a primary source of instability and terrorism in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Tehran experienced mass evacuations following Israeli warnings and Trump’s call for civilians to leave, echoing tactics seen in Gaza.
The situation further deteriorated after the Israeli Defense Forces announced the targeted killing of Iran’s newly appointed military chief, Ali Sandmani. In Gaza, at least 47 Palestinians were killed while awaiting humanitarian aid. In parallel, Iranian state TV confirmed the death of journalist Masoumeh Azimi during an Israeli strike. The Pentagon denied any direct U.S. involvement in attacks against Iran. Tensions intensified further as Iran’s IRGC launched ballistic missiles at a Mossad facility in Herzliya, signaling a dangerous escalation in the shadow conflict.
Update: Trump Denies Leaving G7 for Ceasefire Talks
U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly left the G7 summit in Canada but dismissed claims it was due to ceasefire discussions. He sharply criticized French President Emmanuel Macron as “attention-seeking,” stating his return to Washington was prompted by “something far bigger than a peace agreement.” Trump emphasized the need for “a real end to the nuclear issue,” referring to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
G7 Voices Support for Israel, Condemns Iran
Leaders of the G7 affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense, while branding Iran as the primary source of instability and terrorism in the Middle East.
Mass Evacuations in Tehran Amid Warnings
Following Trump’s public call for Iranian civilians to leave Tehran and Israel’s warnings of major strikes, panic-induced evacuations triggered widespread traffic chaos—mirroring Israeli tactics used in Gaza.
Top Iranian Commander Killed
The IDF confirmed the targeted killing of Ali Sandmani, newly appointed chief of Iran’s armed forces, following the earlier assassination of his predecessor, Gholamali Rashid.
Deadly Incident in Gaza During Aid Distribution
At least 47 Palestinians were killed and more than 200 injured in Khan Younis as they waited for humanitarian aid, according to local civil defense authorities.
Iranian Journalist Killed On Air
IRIB journalist Masoumeh Azimi died after an Israeli airstrike struck the Iranian state broadcaster during a live report, as confirmed by Press TV.
Pentagon Denies Involvement in Iran Strikes
The U.S. Department of Defense categorically denied any American role in attacks on Iranian targets. “That’s simply untrue,” said spokesperson Sean Parnell on social media.
Regional and Global Reactions
Call for Nuclear-Free Middle East
Around 20 Arab and Muslim-majority countries—including Qatar, Turkey, Oman, and Pakistan—issued a joint statement demanding the establishment of a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East. This initiative comes amid escalating military conflict between Israel and Iran.
Heavy Casualties from Strikes
At least 224 Iranians have been killed and over 1,000 wounded in Israeli strikes since Friday, according to official figures. Conversely, Iran’s attacks on Israel have resulted in 24 deaths, per the Israeli Prime Minister’s office.
Nuclear Ambitions Under Scrutiny
As Israeli military pressure mounts, Tehran’s nuclear intentions return to the spotlight. Israel claims Iran is nearing nuclear weapons capability, justifying preemptive strikes. However, U.S. intelligence sources cited by CNN suggest Iran does not currently operate an active nuclear weapons program.
Trump Seeks Final Solution to Iran’s Nuclear Program
Speaking from Air Force One, Trump reiterated his desire for Iran to “completely abandon” its nuclear program, framing his departure from the G7 as a move toward securing a decisive resolution. He suggested no immediate ceasefire was under discussion and hinted that Israel would likely continue its operations against Iran.
Prospects for Negotiation Unclear
Trump said potential diplomatic outreach via envoy Steve Witkoff or Vice President J.D. Vance is under consideration but contingent on developments upon his return to Washington.
Iran Warned Against Provoking U.S.
The U.S. President issued a stern warning to Tehran: any harm to American personnel in the region would provoke a “very severe” response.
Update: Trump Calls for “Real End” to Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions Amid Escalating Tensions in the Region
U.S. President Donald Trump stated he seeks a “real end” to Iran’s nuclear program, explicitly calling for Tehran to “completely abandon” its nuclear ambitions. His remarks, made aboard Air Force One following an early departure from the G7 summit in Canada, reflect a hardline stance on Iran. Trump emphasized he was not seeking a ceasefire but a permanent resolution to what he described as a pressing threat.
Trump also predicted that Israel would not scale back its military operations against Iran, suggesting further escalation was imminent: “You’ll find out in the next two days. No one has slowed down.” When asked whether his administration would appoint a special envoy such as Steve Witkoff or Vice President J.D. Vance to negotiate with Iran, Trump replied, “Maybe,” while indicating that any diplomatic move would depend on developments upon his return to Washington.
Meanwhile, regional tensions continue to rise. Two explosions rocked the northwestern Iranian city of Tabriz—home to a key Iranian airbase reportedly targeted by Israel in recent days. While details remain unclear, thick smoke was seen over the city following the blasts, as reported by local media.
In a significant blow to Iran’s military leadership, Israeli forces claimed to have killed Ali Sandmani, identified initially as the newly appointed Chief of Staff of Iran’s Armed Forces. However, a corrected report from Reuters clarified that Sandmani was head of Iran’s War Headquarters, still considered one of the country’s top military figures.
These developments have triggered visible unrest inside Iran, with long queues forming at gas stations in Tehran—highlighting both domestic anxiety and the potential for broader regional destabilization.
Update: Day 5 of the Israel–Iran Conflict
The fifth day of escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran has brought unprecedented developments, with reports suggesting Israel may have assassinated Iran’s newly appointed military chief, Ali Sendemani. The situation intensified as Iranian forces launched a ninth wave of missile strikes early Tuesday, triggering air raid sirens across Israel. The Israeli military responded with a series of wide-ranging overnight airstrikes targeting missile storage and launch sites, drone facilities, and even Iran’s state television studio in Tehran—an attack Tehran’s foreign ministry condemned as a “cowardly assault on civilian infrastructure.” The violence has prompted widespread panic in both nations, with Tel Aviv rocked by explosions and Tehran witnessing mass civilian evacuations.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly departed the G7 Summit to return to Washington, sparking speculation about mediation efforts, although he dismissed such claims, suggesting instead that “something bigger” was at stake. The human toll continues to rise, with at least 24 Israeli and 224 Iranian casualties reported. As the conflict deepens, international concern mounts, particularly over the risk of further regional destabilization.
Update: As the conflict between Israel and Iran enters its fifth day, U.S. President Donald Trump returned late Monday to Washington from the G7 summit in Canada amid escalating tensions.
Iran launched its ninth wave of missile attacks early Tuesday, triggering sirens across Israel. The Israeli military is actively intercepting Iranian missiles, and residents have been informed they can leave shelters.
In retaliation, Israel targeted Iranian missile facilities, fighter jets, and the IRINN state TV studio. Iran responded by urging two Israeli TV channels to evacuate their headquarters.
President Trump warned Iranians via social media to “evacuate Tehran immediately.” Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu did not rule out targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, though Trump reportedly rejected Israeli plans for his assassination.
Casualties stand at 24 in Israel and 224 in Iran since hostilities began.
Meanwhile, G7 leaders have publicly supported Israel’s right to self-defense, condemned Iran as a regional destabilizer, and rejected Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons. They called for broader de-escalation, including a ceasefire in Gaza.
Fifth day of Israel-Iran conflict sees mounting casualties – White House pushes for emergency talks with Tehran
As military tensions between Israel and Iran enter their fifth day, U.S. President Donald Trump is cutting short his participation in the G7 summit in Canada and returning urgently to Washington, citing the deteriorating situation in the Middle East.
The White House confirmed late Monday that Trump is leaving the G7 “due to developments in the region.” In a cryptic post on Truth Social, the U.S. president warned Iranians to “evacuate Tehran immediately,” offering no further context. Shortly thereafter, Iranian state media (IRNA) reported explosions in the capital during the early hours of Tuesday.
Heavy Fighting and Rising Death Toll
The conflict has intensified dramatically, with Iran launching its ninth wave of missile attacks overnight, prompting air raid sirens across multiple areas in Israel. According to the Israeli military (IDF), its air defense systems intercepted several projectiles, and civilians were cleared to exit shelters by early Tuesday.
Israel, meanwhile, has carried out targeted strikes on Iranian missile infrastructure, air force assets, and media installations, including the state-run IRINN broadcaster. The Israeli government claimed these operations have significantly delayed Iran’s nuclear program and eliminated senior military and scientific figures.
The toll is mounting on both sides: 24 people have been killed in Israel, and at least 224 in Iran, according to preliminary estimates.
Washington Pushes for Diplomatic Off-Ramp
Amid the escalation, the White House has reportedly proposed direct talks with Tehran aimed at reaching a ceasefire and revisiting nuclear negotiations. According to Axios, discussions are underway for a possible meeting between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
International alarm is growing. China has urged its citizens to leave Israel “as soon as possible,” and France has called for an immediate end to attacks on civilians on both sides. “If the United States can secure a ceasefire, it would be very welcome,” French President Emmanuel Macron said during a press conference at the G7 summit.
High Stakes and Dangerous Rhetoric
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not rule out the possibility of targeting Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, when asked by ABC News on Monday. However, sources told CNN that President Trump recently rejected an Israeli proposal to assassinate the Iranian leader.
Trump is expected to arrive in Washington later today alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio, signaling a potential shift in U.S. posture as the conflict threatens to spiral beyond regional containment.
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