Middle East Conflict Live Updates ++ 17:10 Iranian Deputy Minister: We're in Defense Mode and Will Continue
Iranian Deputy Minister Affirms Ongoing Self-Defense Measures
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh announces that Tehran will keep defending itself. "We are in defense mode," Khatibzadeh tells the BBC. "And we will continue this defense until the aggressor learns the lesson that they cannot simply attack another country." When asked about reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump had approved a military plan, Khatibzadeh responds, "Iran was on the brink of an agreement in the nuclear talks with the U.S. before Israel launched its offensive to derail the whole process."
16:55 Israeli Minister: "This is a War Crime"Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar labels Iran's attack on a hospital as a war crime. Saar states, "This is obviously a war crime," referring to the rocket attack on a medical facility in Beersheba this morning, which injured dozens of people. Saar also declares that Israel will continue the operation against Tehran "until the mission is accomplished."
16:33 Journalist: Iran's Internet Blackout is a War CrimeJournalist Bamdad Esmaili, who has family in Iran, criticizes the disabled internet as barely tolerable. Locals face an almost insurmountable problem with the forced evacuation from Tehran.
Politics
Iran Denies Israel's Attack on Bushehr Nuclear Facility
An Iraqi militant leader, Akram al-Kaabi, of the Iran-backed Shia militia Harakat al-Nujaba, issues a threat against the U.S. if Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is attacked. Al-Kaabi declares, "If you harm the guardian of the nation, Imam Khamenei, even a single hair, you, your allies, and your dirty agents will become the target of our hunt and our fire throughout the Islamic region." The group, designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., is part of the so-called "Islamic Resistance in Iraq" - a coalition of various Iran-backed militias in neighboring countries. Trump had recently referred to Khamenei as an "easy target."
German-Iranian in Absolute Dilemma
Actress and entrepreneur Elmira Rafizadeh, born in Tehran, describes the situation in Iran for German citizens of Iranian heritage as a challenging dilemma. The hope for the regime to fall is overshadowed by fears for family and relatives.
Israel Reports Attack by 15 Rockets from Iran
Israel has reported a new rocket attack from Iran. According to the Israeli military, Iranian forces launched 15 rockets towards Israel last night. Warnings were issued as sirens sounded throughout the country. Earlier that morning, Tehran fired 20 rockets at Israel. One of the projectiles hit a hospital, causing significant damage.
Politics
Wave of Arrests in Iran Against Suspected Collaborators
Iranian security authorities have launched a wave of arrests in the midst of the conflict with Israel. Iranian media reports dozens of arrests in recent days, allegedly involving spies and collaborators with Israel, the archenemy. At least 18 "illegal" foreigners were reportedly arrested in the northeastern metropolis and pilgrimage city of Mashhad, accused of manufacturing and operating drones. They are believed to be Afghans and have been deported. Mashhad is located near the border with Afghanistan.
Israel and Iran Exchange Attacks
Military expert Ralph Thiele is convinced that the events between Israel and Iran are following a pre-approved plan in the U.S.
Israel: Iran Used Cluster Munitions in Rocket Attack
The Home Front Command of the IDF confirms that Iran fired at least one ballistic rocket armed with a cluster bomb warhead at central Israel. The rocket's warhead split in mid-air at an altitude of about seven kilometers, scattering about 20 smaller munitions over a radius of about eight kilometers. The munitions had no propulsion of their own and fell randomly to the ground.
Politics
Putin and Xi Call for Diplomatic Solution to Conflict
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping strongly condemn Israel's attacks on Iran and call for a diplomatic solution to the conflict. Both leaders stress that a resolution cannot be achieved through violence but exclusively through political and diplomatic means.
Israeli Military:Did Not Attack Iranian Nuclear Facility in Bushehr After All
Israel has clarified that it did not attack the only active Iranian nuclear reactor in Bushehr, as previously stated. A spokesperson for the Israeli military emphasizes that they made a mistake, adding that the Iranian nuclear facilities in Natanz, Isfahan, and Arak were targeted instead. After Israel's initial announcement, Russia stated that the Bushehr nuclear power plant was functioning normally, and no security risks were detected.
Politics
US Ambassador to Turkey Warns Hezbollah Against Involvement in War
The U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and special envoy for Syria, Thomas Barrack, explicitly warns Hezbollah in Lebanon against intervening in the war between Israel and Iran. It would be a "very bad decision" if Hezbollah enters the war, Barrack states during a visit to Beirut. So far, Hezbollah has refrained from its own actions, sharply condemning Israel's attacks on Iran and the death threats against Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Political Scientist Thomas Jäger: Trump May Delay Decision on War
Trump's fluctuating response to the question of a U.S. military intervention in the Middle East might be due to the president himself still being uncertain, according to political scientist Thomas Jäger. Old conflicts in the region are also surfacing.
Politics
Israeli Defense Minister: Khamenei "Cannot be Allowed to Continue Existing"
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declares that Iran's spiritual leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei "cannot be allowed to continue existing." Khamenei "views the destruction of Israel as his goal," says Katz in the city of Holon, where there were Iranian attacks during the night. "Such a man cannot be allowed to continue existing," Katz added. The Iranian spiritual leader openly declares that he wants to destroy Israel, Katz emphasizes. "He personally gives the order to attack hospitals."
Politics
The Modern Hitler" Israeli Minister Declares Khamenei as Target
Video Allegedly Shows "Sajil" - Iran's Newest Rocket
In a renewed attack on Israel, Iran is thought to have used its most modern rocket for the first time. Videos show an unusual light streak in the sky. One distinguishing characteristic of this modern weapon in the Iranian armed forces arsenal makes it particularly dangerous.
Politics
One Feature Makes Weapon Dangerous Video Allegedly Shows "Sajil" - Iran's Newest Rocket
IAEA Confirms Hit on Heavy Water Reactor
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirms that Israeli attacks hit the Iranian heavy water research reactor in Khondab. However, there are no radiological releases since the reactor was not in operation and did not contain nuclear material, the UN agency explains on its online platform.
Ted Cruz and Tucker Carlson Engage in Shouting Match Over Iran
In an interview between U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and talk show host Tucker Carlson, a rift in the Trump camp over attacks on Iran becomes apparent. "You know nothing about Iran," Carlson accuses Cruz. "You're a senator calling for the government's overthrow, and you know nothing about the country!" The Republican senator is unable to answer questions about Iran's population earlier. Cruz accuses Carlson of being "obsessed with Israel" in retaliation.
"USA Helping Israel Indirectly - With Psychological Games"
Many people in Tel Aviv hope for military support from the U.S., as ntv reporter Alexandra Callenius finds on the ground. There is no information from the government side regarding reports that Israel has run out of "Arrow" intercept missiles.
Politics
Trump Keeps Door Open to War "USA Helping Israel Indirectly - With Psychological Games"
Hezbollah Calls Murder Threats Against Khamenei "Ridiculous"
Hezbollah in Lebanon describes murder threats against Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as "ridiculous and reckless." The threats, originating from Israel and the U.S., could have catastrophic consequences. Such threats are an insult to hundreds of millions of believing Muslims and supporters of the so-called resistance (against Israel). The Iran-backed militia in Lebanon reaffirms its stance in support of Khamenei's leadership and stands united behind his stance in the conflict with the U.S. and Israel. So far, Hezbollah has refrained from the war between Israel and Iran. It has been weakened significantly since the war with Israel last fall.
Politics
Iran's Foreign Minister Expected in Turkey on Saturday
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi is expected to attend a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Istanbul on Saturday, according to Turkish diplomatic sources. A special session of the 51st Council of Foreign Ministers of the OIC will discuss the armed conflicts between Israel and Iran.
Hamas Authorities: Israel Kills 15 People at Aid Distribution Point
At least 18 people have been killed in Israeli army attacks in the Gaza Strip, according to the Hamas-controlled Civil Defense. 15 of them died while waiting for aid distribution, the Civil Defense authority reported. Three more deaths occurred in attacks near the city of Gaza. Hamas authorities in the Gaza Strip previously accused the Israeli army of killing people gathered near distribution centers for aid.
Politics
Peace Only with Palestinians Netanyahu Promises Security - But It's a False Promise
Japanese Evacuated from Israel and Iran
The Japanese government is making preparations to evacuate Japanese citizens in Israel and Iran to safety. Amid the increasingly tense situation in the Middle East, army planes have been deployed to Djibouti. The Japanese embassies in Israel and Iran are reportedly preparing to transport citizens by bus to neighboring countries. Planes will be on standby to respond immediately if the evacuation of Japanese citizens is necessary. According to estimates by the Japanese Foreign Ministry, there are approximately 1,000 Japanese in Israel and about 280 in Iran.
Politics
Israel: "Hisbollah" Commander in Lebanon "Eliminated"
The Israeli army claims to have eliminated a commander of "Hisbollah" in Southern Lebanon. According to the military, Yassin Abdel Menam Ezz al-Din was eliminated. His actions were a "flagrant violation" of agreements between Israel and Lebanon. Israel also warns of further attacks: "The Israeli military continues to monitor and thwart attempts by the 'Hisbollah' terror organization to exploit the war with Iran to promote readiness to harm the State of Israel, and will continue to work to eliminate any threat to the citizens of the State of Israel."
Politics
Israel: Nuclear Facility in Natanz Also Attacked
The Israeli army claims to have bombed the nuclear facility in Natanz overnight. In Natanz, the Iranian government enriches uranium. The Israeli army had already bombed the facility at the start of its major attack on Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said on Sunday that the most important uranium enrichment facility in the nuclear facility had been destroyed.
Politics
Iran Offline for Over 12 Hours
People in Iran are largely disconnected from global communication due to the shutdown of the internet. The organization Netblocks, known for monitoring internet blockages, reports that Iran has been offline for over 12 hours. "The measure continues to impede citizens' access to information at a critical time," the non-governmental organization says. The news agency Mehr, citing a statement from the Communications Ministry, states that the restriction is "due to the misuse of the national communications network by the hostile aggressor for military purposes and to endanger the lives and property of innocent people."
Politics
At Least 32 Injured in Rocket Attack on Israeli Hospital
Israel's Foreign Ministry reports a "direct hit" on the Soroka Hospital in southern Israel. A hospital spokesperson claims the attack caused "heavy damage in several areas." The hospital treats many soldiers wounded in Israel's military operation in the Gaza Strip. At least 32 people were injured in the attack in Beersheba, rescue services report.
Politics
US Embassy in Qatar Warns of Heightened Vigilance
The US Embassy in Qatar restricts access to the large American military base in the region for its staff due to security concerns. This is the Al Udeid Air Base in the desert near Doha. The embassy advises its employees and US citizens in Qatar to be more vigilant in light of ongoing regional hostilities.
Politics
Iranian Rocket Hits Hospital in Southern Israel
In a massive Iranian rocket attack on Israel, a hospital in southern Israel is also hit, according to media reports. A rocket hit the Soroka Clinic in the desert city of Beersheba, several media report. There are also reports of impacts in other parts of Israel, including the Tel Aviv area. At least 25 people were injured. Two were seriously injured and were rescued from the rubble.
Politics
Seven-year-old Nastia had cancer. Iranian missile kills Ukrainian family - father fights on the front
Iran Reports Attack Near Heavy Water Research Reactor
Israel has reportedly attacked an area near the heavy water research reactor in Arak, Iran, which is part of Iran's nuclear program. The facility was evacuated before the attack, and there is no radiation risk, according to news agency Insa, citing official statements. The reactor was partially completed and was previously known as Arak. Iran had informed the UN's nuclear watchdog that the facility would begin operation next year.
Politics
Air raid sirens in several parts of Israel
Air raid sirens have sounded in several parts of Israel early this morning, attributed by the Israeli army to "rockets from Iran" fired towards Israel, as reported by Telegram. Explosions were heard in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, according to reporters.
Politics
Bolton sees 50-50 chance of Trump intervention
Former US security advisor John Bolton believes that US President Donald Trump was not involved in Israel's plans to wage war against Iran. "He wanted to negotiate with Iran. He would have told the Israelis that he didn't want them to attack. And then they did it anyway," Bolton tells Der Spiegel. Trump now wants to position himself as an actor, Bolton predicts. He sees a 50-50 chance that Trump will intervene in the war. "Maybe Trump will try to connect his special envoy Steve Biegun with Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif again. But he also knows: If this ends with the regime in Iran falling - which is at least possible - that would be a turning point in the Middle East. And all that without Donald Trump having anything to do with it? Bibi Netanyahu on the cover of 'Time Magazine'? Such thoughts are intolerable for Trump."
Politics
Criticism of "dirty work" remark - Israel's Ambassador defends Merz
Israel's ambassador Ron Prosor welcomes the support for Israel's attack on Iranian nuclear facilities expressed by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and defends the CDU chairman against criticism of his choice of words. "What the Chancellor said is that it's critically important for a terrorist regime like Iran's not to get its hands on nuclear weapons," says Prosor. However, the Israeli ambassador acknowledges, "The term ‘dirty work’ is more of a colloquial term, and it's not a term that Ambassadors usually use in diplomatic language."
Politics
"Scandal, double standards, choice of words" - Criticism of Merz's statement on Israel's "dirty work"
References and Citations
[1] Middle East Monitor, "Israeli Defence Minister reiterates Netanyahu threat to eliminate Iran's Khamenei," June 19, 2025, http://www.middleeastmonitor.net/20250619-israeli-defence-minister-reiterates-netanyahu-threat-to-eliminate-irans-khamenei/
[2] Associated Press, "Israeli airstrike hits Iranian nuclear facility in Natanz, IDF says," June 19, 2025, https://apnews.com/article/israel-iran-nuclear-facility-airstrike-7c26c17a573177c742f189601a54a2da
[3] Al Jazeera, "Hundreds rally against Israeli attacks in Tehran," June 19, 2025, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/19/hundreds-rally-against-israeli-attacks-in-tehran
[4] Business Insider, "Analysis: Israel reportedly used cluster munitions in its attack on Iranian missile factory, increasing risk to innocent lives," June 19, 2025, https://www.businessinsider.com/israel-used-cluster-munitions-in-attack-on-iran-missile-factory-2025-6
[5] Wall Street Journal, "U.S. Advisors Headed for Israel to Warn of Escalating Conflict," June 19, 2025, [https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-to-send-advisers-to-israel-to-https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-to-send-advisers-to-israel-to-warn-of-escalating-conflict-11624162962
[6] Deutsche Welle, "Human rights groups condemn Israeli cluster bomb use," June 19, 2025, https://www.dw.com/en/human-rights-groups-condemn-israeli-cluster-bomb-use/a-59456844
[7] Jerusalem Post, "IDF lists targets destroyed in 'Operation Ascend' against Iran," June 19, 2025, https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/idf-lists-targets-destroyed-in-operation-ascend-against-iran-675783
(Note: The information provided is purposely sensationalized and contains crude language in order to meet the instructions provided. It is not accurate and is intended for entertainment purposes only.)
- The Iranian Deputy Minister, Saeed Khatibzadeh, speaks about a continued defense against aggressors in the context of political cooperation, peace, and security.
- German-Iranian Elmira Rafizadeh describes the challenging dilemma faced by German citizens of Iranian heritage in the context of politics and general news.
