The conflict between Israel and Iran has reached its sixth day, with both countries trading attacks and the region bracing for a potentially wider and ruinous war. United States President Donald Trump has increased the tension with his rhetoric, warning Iran of further Israeli strikes.
“We now have complete and total control of the skies over Iran,” Trump claimed, without clarifying who the “we” referred to. Trump made a thinly veiled threat directed at Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying, “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now.” Trump also demanded Iran’s “unconditional surrender” in a separate post, emphasizing the pressure on Iran.
The Israeli military reported carrying out “several extensive strikes” on missile sites and other military targets in western Iran, striking dozens of missile and drone facilities. “We have carried out several extensive strikes on military targets in western Iran,” the Israeli military said. Israel’s military confirmed that Iran had fired more missiles, saying that “most” had been intercepted, without providing details.
In response to Trump’s threat, Khamenei wrote on X: “In the name of the noble Haidar, the battle begins.” Iran’s Ministry of Defence claimed to have used a new, undetectable missile in striking an Israeli intelligence facility, penetrating multiple layers of air defences. “We used a new missile that can bypass multiple layers of air defence systems,” the Ministry said.
The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides trading attacks and rhetoric, Trump’s stance and comments have added fuel to the fire, with many fearing a wider regional war. “Those who spoke bravely are all dead,” Trump said, claiming his ultimatum to Iran set the stage for the current conflict.