In a sharp escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed to punish what he called “the Zionist enemy” following US military involvement in Israel’s recent strikes on Iranian targets. This marks his first public response since the US bombed Iranian nuclear and military sites in coordination with Israel, as per a report by the Al Jazeera.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of regime change in Tehran. “If the current Iranian regime is unable to make Iran great again, why wouldn’t there be a regime change?” he declared, adding fuel to an already volatile situation.
As the conflict deepens, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a stern warning: “The Americans must receive a response to their aggression.” Both Iran and Israel continue to exchange fire as global powers brace for what comes next.
According to Iran’s health ministry, over 400 people have been killed and at least 3,056 wounded since Israel launched its offensive on June 13. In retaliation, Iran’s strikes have reportedly claimed the lives of at least 24 people in Israel.
Despite the bombing of nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog reported no increase in off-site radiation levels.
This new phase of confrontation has sparked international anxiety, with analysts warning of possible regional spillover and long-term consequences for diplomacy and peace in the region.
