In a defiant response, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected US President Donald Trump's demand for "unconditional surrender" amid escalating Israeli strikes on Iranian territory. Khamenei warned that any military intervention by the US would result in "irreparable damage" to the Americans.
Key Points
- *Khamenei's Statement*: In a recorded video aired by state TV, Khamenei dismissed Trump's "threatening and absurd statements," emphasizing that the Iranian nation will not surrender.
- *US-Israel Conflict*: The conflict between Israel and Iran has intensified, with Israel conducting extensive airstrikes on multiple targets in Tehran, including the Iranian Ministry of Defense headquarters and nuclear facilities.
- *Iranian Retaliation*: Iran has launched ballistic missiles at Israel, with air raid sirens sounding across central Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
- *Global Concerns*: The international community is growing increasingly concerned about the escalating tensions, with calls for restraint and diplomacy to prevent further conflict.
International Reactions
- *French President Macron*: Warned against trying to bring down the Iranian government through force, saying it would lead to chaos.
- *Israeli Opposition Leader*: Yair Lapid said the US should participate in the war against Iran, trusting Trump's judgment on the matter.
Casualties and Damage
- *Iranian Casualties*: At least 585 people, including 239 civilians, have been killed, and over 1,300 wounded in Israeli strikes.
- *Israeli Casualties*: At least 24 people have been killed, and hundreds wounded in Iranian missile and drone strikes ¹.
