Heat between Israel and Iran ramping up
Supreme Leader Khamenei dismisses Trump's call for capitulation
The tension between Tehran and Tel Aviv continues to spiral under the watchful eye of the international community. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's top dude, dismisses Donald Trump's demand for Iran's unconditional surrender. He also sends a warning to Uncle Sam against meddling in their mess.
Explosions could still be heard in the city of Tehran on day six of the war between Israel and Iran. Eyewitnesses report multiple explosions in the northeastern part of the city and heavy anti-aircraft fire. For now, there's no news about casualties or damage. Israel's military confirmed that the Israeli Air Force is currently striking military targets associated with the Iranian regime in Tehran.
In a series of overnight attacks, Israel claims to have targeted uranium centrifuges and several weapons factories across Iran. They also reportedly hit more than 40 military targets in the western part of the country. However, Israel also admitted to losing a drone during these operations.
Khamenei couldn't help but share his opinion during a live broadcast, stating the Iranian people are triumphant and ready to resist both forced war and peace. He also cautioned the U.S. against intervening militarily, saying it would cause "devastating consequences."
Trump, ever the entertainer, flexed his muscles on the Truth Social platform, taunting Khamenei. "We've pinpointed where the self-proclaimed 'Supreme Leader' is hiding," he wrote. For now, Khamenei is enjoying the safety of his hideout. "We haven't made any plans to take him out just yet, but who knows what the future holds," Trump teased.
Trump threatened Iran against firing rockets at civilians or U.S. soldiers, stressing that patience was wearing thin. In another post, he commanded Iran to surrender unconditionally.
Russia has chipped in, advising the U.S. against a direct confrontation with Iran. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov shared his concerns at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, stating it would lead to violent chaos. Even floating the prospect of direct action against Iran is perilous, according to Ryabkov.
Reports suggest that Israel's Arrow defense system is low on intercept missiles. The U.S. has been aware of this for some time, and has reinforced Israel's defense with ground, sea, and air systems. The White House has also transferred more missile defense systems to the region since June.
Concerns about Israel's defense capabilities were echoed by a source familiar with assessments from U.S. and Israeli intelligence. They estimate that Israel can only maintain its current level of defense for another ten to twelve days. However, Iran's reserve ammunition supplies are uncertain.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's remarks about Israel's attack on Iran have sparked criticism. He called Israel "brave" for carrying out the campaign. Ralf Stegner of the SPD denounced Merz's comment, calling it "disturbing." The Greens, Left, and BSW also voiced displeasure.
Life in Tehran remains quite. Shops are closed, and banks cannot dispense cash, according to a reporter at the scene. Iranian media also reported that several banks had problems with currency withdrawals, but described it as a temporary issue. Even though many pharmacies are shut, the government maintains there will be no shortage of medicine.
There are isolated calls for protests against the government, with residents of larger apartment buildings often going to the rooftops after Israeli bombings to see where impacts occurred. Chants of "Death to Khamenei" can be heard. But as soon as security forces arrive after such rooftop protests, people quickly retreat to their apartments.
President Massoud Peschkian urged the people to unite, according to Tasnim news agency, close to the Revolutionary Guards. "As long as we have the people on our side, we won't face any obstacles," Peschkian said. Now, more than ever, it's crucial to maintain national unity, he added.
Local observers have downplayed speculations about an imminent coup. Though Reza Pahlavi, the son of the last Shah of Persia living in exile, has gained attention with a call for a coup, he remains a controversial figure due to his father. To date, protests on the streets have not occurred.
Sources:
- Golan, Boaz & Kuttab, Hazem (2025, June 16). Israel air attacks rock Tehran as Khamenei warns U.S. against military intervention in Iran conflict. Haaretz. Retrieved from https://www.haaretz.com/middle-east-news/iran-news/israel-air-attacks-rock-tehran-as-khamenei-warns-u-s-against-military-intervention-in-iran-conflict-1.101064031
- Kessler, Greg & Zraick, Yonette (2025, June 16). Israel's escalating war with Iran: What we know now. The Washington Post. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/06/16/israel-iran-bombing-attacks-timeline/
In the context of the escalating war between Israel and Iran, politics and general news remain intertwined with war-and-conflicts. President Massoud Peschkian appeals to the Iranian people for unity, while Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warns against US military intervention, highlighting the global political implications of the conflict.
