Iran Slams Israeli Attacks, Refuses to Submit to Western Pressure

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei warned that the country would never accept “imposed peace or war,” rejecting any possibility of surrender. Russia’s Vladimir Putin also voiced concern and offered to mediate, urging a quick resolution to avoid wider regional destabilization.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump issued warnings to Iran, stating:

“Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran… Iran should have signed the deal. Simply put, IRAN CANNOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON.”

He claimed the U.S. knew the whereabouts of Khamenei but had decided not to target him — “for now.”

The military confrontation between Iran and Israel has entered its sixth day, marked by fresh missile exchanges, diplomatic tensions, and growing international concern. Early Wednesday morning, Iran launched two barrages of missiles at Israel, triggering explosions over Tel Aviv, while Israel responded with major airstrikes, hitting over 40 Iranian military targets, including missile facilities and IRGC-linked infrastructure in Tehran and Khojir.

Erdogan Backs Iran’s Right to Defend

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan defended Iran, calling its retaliation “legal and legitimate” while denouncing Israel’s actions as “state terrorism.” He emphasized diplomacy and offered Ankara’s role as a potential mediator.

Iran Hits Back With Hypersonic Missiles, Drones

Iran claimed to have launched Fattah-1 hypersonic missiles, which are harder to intercept due to their speed and maneuverability. It also deployed drone swarms, some of which were intercepted over the Dead Sea. State media in Iran reported the shooting down of an Israeli Hermes drone and a U.S.-made F-35 jet, though Israel did not confirm these claims.

Human Toll and Infrastructure Damage

Israel’s emergency service Magen David Adom reported 20 deaths and over 87 injuries from Iranian missile strikes. Buildings in Tel Aviv and Haifa were damaged, with power outages reported across central regions.

Israel’s Defense Systems Under Pressure

Reports from The Wall Street Journal suggest that Israel is running low on Arrow missile interceptors, raising concerns about its ability to defend against long-range Iranian missile attacks.

Ceasefire Talks Stalled

Despite efforts by Qatar and Oman, Iran refused to engage in ceasefire negotiations while still under Israeli attack. Iranian officials said serious talks could only happen after completing their retaliation for Israel’s initial strikes.

Global Economic Impact

The conflict has begun impacting global markets. Oil prices surged, and stock markets dipped as investors feared a wider regional war. Trump’s abrupt departure from the G7 Summit to handle the crisis further fueled volatility.

Diplomatic Moves and Statements

• Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Iran’s envoy and condemned Israeli aggression, reiterating Pakistan’s support for Iran at the UN Security Council.

• Qatar received a confidential letter from Iran’s President Pezeshkian.

• China accused Trump of “pouring oil on the fire,” criticizing U.S. pressure tactics.

• The U.S. established a round-the-clock task force to assist Americans in the region, issuing over 30 security alerts.

Trump Blocks Assassination Attempt on Khamenei

According to U.S. officials, President Trump recently blocked an Israeli operation to assassinate Ayatollah Khamenei, citing fears of uncontrollable escalation. Trump emphasized:

“Iran and Israel should make a deal — and will make a deal. We will have PEACE soon.”

Read More: Israeli Attacks Risk Nuclear Catastrophe: Moscow