Iran President Offers US Olive Branch, Hails Russian Support Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian signaled a willingness to reciprocate any U.S. moves toward reviving a June peace deal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, while publicly acknowledging Russia’s support during an international summit. The remarks came amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, which resumed military exchanges after a period of relative calm. Pezeshkian’s statements were made during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek, where leaders from over a dozen nations, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gathered. The summit coincided with heightened diplomatic and military activity. A day prior, U.S. President Donald Trump had warned Moscow and Beijing against supplying Iran with military aid, threatening to impose severe economic pressure on Tehran. Pezeshkian, however, emphasized that Iran would respond immediately to any U.S. return to the June deal, which had collapsed due to mutual accusations of violations. He warned that a U.S. policy of “pressure and threats” could derail diplomatic efforts to end the war. During a private meeting with Putin, Pezeshkian expressed gratitude for Russia’s stance, calling their relationship “strategic” rather than ordinary. Putin, in turn, praised Iran’s “courage and resilience” in defending its national interests, despite the military and political challenges. He reiterated Russia’s commitment to maintaining trade and economic ties with Iran, which have grown significantly since both nations faced widespread international sanctions.#donald_trump #russia #masoud_pezeshkian #iran_president #shanghai_cooperation_organisation
Is Mojtaba Khamenei Dead? Last Tuesday, Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei hosted a wake for his father and predecessor, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Among the thousands who gathered at Tehran’s largest mosque were Iran’s most prominent political figures and several of the elder Khamenei’s sons. Notably absent was Mojtaba, the event’s official host. His absence sparked speculation, as even his close friends and relatives had not seen him in recent weeks. Mohammad Hossein Khoshvaght, a former official and relative of Mojtaba, noted that fewer than five people had met with him since his rise to power, citing security precautions. The rationale for his seclusion is rooted in perceived threats. Mojtaba, like his father, is a likely target for Israeli or U.S. strikes, given the 2024 air attack that killed Ali Khamenei. Direct communication from him could provide adversaries with intelligence on his location. Additionally, Mojtaba sustained injuries during the February strike on his family, which have reportedly hindered his ability to make public appearances. These factors have fueled speculation about his health and whereabouts. Rumors of his death have intensified in recent weeks, with some government insiders and officials suggesting he may have succumbed to his injuries. A staffer at a Tehran-based government institution told the author that Mojtaba “has either passed away or is brain-dead,” citing a decline in communication from his office. At least two other officials echoed this claim, with one asserting that Mojtaba had died or become incapacitated earlier this month. The uncertainty has led to further developments.#masoud_pezeshkian #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #tehran #mojtaba_khamenei #national_security_council
Iran says new sanctions threatened by 'desperate' US will fail Iran's foreign minister dismissed the threat of new U.S. sanctions as a sign of desperation on Sunday, asserting that the expected measures would fail to defeat Tehran. The remarks came as the U.S. Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, prepared to announce what he called "the toughest sanctions in history" on Iran during a press conference scheduled for Monday. Iran's economy, already under immense pressure from international sanctions, has faced repeated infrastructure damage and civilian casualties from airstrikes since the U.S. and Israel launched attacks on February 28. The Iranian leadership has maintained a defiant stance despite the ongoing conflict, which has brought shipping in the Strait of Hormuz to a near standstill. This critical waterway, vital for global oil shipments, has been effectively blockaded by Iran, which refuses to allow unauthorized oil tankers to transit. The disruption has contributed to a rise in global oil prices. Iran's foreign minister emphasized that Washington must engage in respectful dialogue to find a "solution based on justice and honour," stating that all previous U.S. actions—whether blockades or military moves—had failed. President Donald Trump warned of economic consequences for any country providing "any type of lifeline to Iran," while urging China, which purchases over 80% of Iran's exported oil, to cooperate with Washington. China has called for diplomatic solutions, though details remain unclear. Meanwhile, Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, is set to visit Tehran as part of mediation efforts to restore regional peace. A Pakistani government source indicated that Munir would address recent developments, including the U.S. sanctions threat.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian #scott_bessent #asim_munir
US-Iran Conflict Escalates Amid Economic Pressures and Strategic Tensions The escalating tensions between the United States and Iran have intensified as President Donald Trump’s economic threats against Tehran face pushback from China and Iran, while the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical flashpoint for global oil supply. Meanwhile, rising gas prices in the U.S. continue to strain households, and diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis have stalled amid deepening geopolitical divisions. China has publicly rejected Trump’s warnings of an “economic D-Day” against Iran, arguing that sanctions would not serve the interests of any party. The U.S. has limited leverage over Beijing, which has maintained economic ties with Iran despite Trump’s threats of “tremendous economic consequences” for countries engaging in trade with Tehran. Iranian officials have condemned the U.S. approach as an attempt to impose “extraterritorial sovereignty” over sovereign nations, framing it as an act of colonialism. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei warned that those enforcing U.S. sanctions would face prosecution, emphasizing Iran’s resolve to resist what it calls “international wrongful acts.” The situation in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global oil exports, has remained volatile. While traffic through the waterway increased by 27% in the past week, the volume still represents only 20% of pre-war levels. Most vessels transiting the strait were flagged from Panama and Liberia, with none from the U.S. The majority of ships were product tankers carrying refined petroleum, highlighting the region’s role in fueling global energy markets. Despite Iranian claims of control, the U.S.#us #iran #donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian
El presidente de Irán llega a Pakistán mientras equipos de Estados Unidos e Irán avanzan en un acuerdo para poner fin a la guerra en Oriente Medio El presidente de Irán, Masoud Pezeshkian, aterrizó en Islamabad el martes 23 de junio de 2026 para reunirse con funcionarios paquistaníes que han estado mediando en las negociaciones entre Teherán y Washington. La visita ocurre en un contexto de tensiones, ya que discrepancias sobre los términos del acuerdo y la violencia en Líbano amenazan la estabilidad de las conversaciones. Pezeshkian llegó a Islamabad acompañado por altos funcionarios, incluido el ministro de Exteriores iraní, Abbas Araghchi, en medio de medidas de seguridad estrictas. Las negociaciones en Suiza, lideradas por el vicepresidente estadounidense JD Vance y el presidente del Parlamento iraní, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, han estado en marcha durante días. Los equipos técnicos trabajan en los detalles del acuerdo, que busca un fin permanente de la guerra en Oriente Medio. Sin embargo, se han generado desacuerdos sobre el acceso de inspectores del Organismo Internacional de Energía Atómica (OIEA) a los sitios nucleares iraníes bombardeados por Estados Unidos en 2025. Aunque Vance había anunciado previamente que se permitiría la inspección de los recintos, el portavoz iraní, Esmail Baghaei, negó que se haya programado una visita del OIEA a Irán. La violencia en Líbano ha reanudado sus ataques, con soldados israelíes abriendo fuego y matando a dos personas en la zona de Nabatiyeh al-Fawqa. Esta reactivación de los combates, que se produce tras dos días de calma tras un alto el fuego negociado el sábado, podría afectar las negociaciones diplomáticas. Irán ha exigido que una tregua total en Líbano sea parte del acuerdo integral, lo que complica el proceso.#masoud_pezeshkian #abbas_araghchi #presidente_iran #ministro_exteriores_iran #primer_ministro_pakistan
US Lifts Naval Blockade as Iran's Supreme Leader Criticizes Trump Deal The United States has officially ended its naval blockade of Iran following the signing of a landmark agreement to conclude the ongoing regional conflict. US Central Command confirmed the move on social media, stating it was carried out "in accordance with the President's direction" and noting that some American vessels would remain "in the general area" of the Persian Gulf. The decision marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape, with Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei expressing cautious approval of the deal despite his reservations. Khamenei, who has not been publicly visible since assuming leadership in March after the death of his predecessor, stated that he had authorized the agreement following assurances from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian that the deal would "protect the rights of the Iranian nation." However, he criticized former President Donald Trump for allegedly pushing the agreement "out of desperation," using "all kinds of leverage" to secure it. Khamenei emphasized that while "in-person negotiations" between Tehran and Washington would continue in the future, these talks would not imply "acceptance of the enemy's position." The agreement, which centers on 14 core points, includes provisions such as the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a commitment to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, and the establishment of a $300 billion fund for Iran's "reconstruction and economic development." Notably, the US is not obligated to contribute to the fund. The deal also mandates that both sides work toward a final agreement within a maximum of 60 days, with potential extensions if both parties agree.#strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian #us_central_command #mojtaba_khamenei #jd_vance
Iran and the U.S./Israel Reach Agreement After 100 Days of Attacks Following 100 days of military strikes by the U.S. and Israel on Iranian targets, a landmark agreement has been reached between Iran and its adversaries. The deal, brokered after intense negotiations, aims to de-escalate tensions and address critical issues such as sanctions, military posturing, and nuclear program constraints. However, the agreement faces significant challenges, both domestically in Iran and internationally, as key unresolved issues remain. Key Terms of the Agreement The agreement, referred to as the "Memorandum of Understanding" (MOU), includes several key provisions: Sanctions Relief: Iran will receive temporary relief from certain U.S. sanctions in exchange for halting its nuclear enrichment activities and reducing its uranium stockpile. Military Disengagement: Both sides agree to a temporary pause in military operations, including the suspension of Israeli airstrikes and U.S. support for regional allies. Nuclear Constraints: Iran commits to limiting its enrichment capabilities and allowing international inspections of its nuclear facilities, though critical aspects of its program remain unaddressed. Economic Aid: The U.S. pledges financial assistance to Iran for infrastructure and energy projects, though the exact terms and funding mechanisms are still under negotiation. Domestic Challenges in Iran The agreement has sparked mixed reactions within Iran. While the government frames it as a strategic victory, critics argue it compromises national sovereignty. Key challenges include: Political Resistance: Hardline factions, including the Revolutionary Guards and conservative lawmakers, fear the deal undermines Iran’s security and independence. They warn that concessions could embolden adversaries.#iran #united_states #israel #masoud_pezeshkian #memorandum_of_understanding
Iranians emerge online with skepticism and defiance after months of blackout Iranians cautiously reconnected to the internet on Tuesday after an 88-day nationwide blackout, but the partial restoration of access sparked mixed reactions of skepticism, frustration, and quiet defiance. The partial return of online connectivity, ordered by President Masoud Pezeshkian, marked the end of what NetBlocks called the longest nationwide internet shutdown in modern history. However, many users still required virtual private networks (VPNs) to bypass active filtering systems, and some expressed disappointment that the government’s efforts to restore access remained limited. The blackout, which began in late December 2025, followed mass anti-government protests driven by economic collapse, hyperinflation, and a deepening crisis of public trust. As demonstrations expanded into broader calls for political change, Tehran intensified internet restrictions, culminating in a near-total disconnection by late February 2026. The shutdown coincided with U.S. and Israeli military strikes, which further destabilized the country’s already fragile situation. Despite the partial restoration, internet filtering systems—known as the “filternet”—remained active, with some platforms like WhatsApp still blocked. Users described the situation as a “ruse” or a “spectacle,” with one Iranian woman criticizing the regime for “bringing back the filternet” and comparing the government’s approach to that of South Korea and Japan, which she claimed did not “lecture their people” about internet access. Another resident noted that the delayed restoration highlighted the government’s tight control over connectivity, with many Iranians relying on smuggled Starlink terminals or costly VPNs to bypass restrictions.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #netblocks #supreme_council_for_cyberspace
Iran Says Khamenei Fully Recovered From ‘Scratch Behind the Ear’ Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late supreme leader Ali Khamenei, has been described by Iranian officials as recovering from a minor injury sustained during a missile strike on his family’s residence in Tehran. The attack, which occurred on February 28, reportedly left Khamenei with a “small crack behind the ear,” according to Mazaher Hosseini, the director general of protocol at the office of the supreme leader. Despite initial reports suggesting he required life-changing facial surgery and a prosthetic leg, Iranian state media has downplayed the severity of his condition. Khamenei, who is one of the late supreme leader’s six children, has not been publicly seen since the strike. His father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in the attack, while his wife, Ms. Haddad, was reportedly killed instantly. Hosseini, in a recorded statement, confirmed that Khamenei was outside the building at the time of the strike and was heading upstairs when the missile struck. He emphasized that the supreme leader is in “good health” and urged the public to remain patient, as the “enemy is spreading all kinds of rumours and false claims.” The Iranian president, Masoud Pezeshkian, stated that he had met Khamenei at an undisclosed location, describing the encounter as significant. “What struck me most during this meeting was the vision and the humble and sincere approach of the supreme leader of the Islamic revolution,” Pezeshkian said. However, the meeting’s details remain unclear, and no official confirmation of Khamenei’s current role or whereabouts has been provided.#masoud_pezeshkian #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #mojtaba_khamenei #ali_khamenei #mazaher_hosseini
UAE and Iran Escalate Tensions Over Missile Threats and Energy System Attacks The United Arab Emirates has confirmed its air defense systems are actively countering incoming missile and drone threats from Iran, following a series of strikes targeting Gulf infrastructure. Iran warned on Sunday that it would retaliate by attacking the energy and water systems of its neighbors in the Gulf if the United States follows through on a threat to strike Iran’s electricity grid within 48 hours. The escalating conflict, which has persisted for three weeks, has drawn international condemnation and heightened regional tensions. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a statement on social media, asserting that Tehran is not intimidated by threats and reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil exports, remains open to all vessels except those violating Iranian sovereignty. This came in response to a joint statement by 22 countries, including the UAE, which condemned Iran for closing the strait and halting fuel and gas supplies to the world. Iran dismissed the accusations, claiming the situation was “normal” in the absence of aggression from U.S. and Israeli forces, and urged the countries to pressure Israel and the U.S. to cease their actions. The UAE’s Ministry of Defense reported that its systems intercepted 25 drones and four ballistic missiles launched by Iran on Sunday. The country has been under sustained attacks since the conflict began, with reports of multiple drone and missile strikes targeting military and energy installations. The UAE’s defense forces have consistently emphasized their readiness to neutralize threats, stating that the “sounds heard across parts of the city” were the result of successful interception operations.#iran #strait_of_hormuz #united_arab_emirates #masoud_pezeshkian #gulf_cooperation_council
Sky News Halts Broadcast for Breaking News on Trump-Iran Tensions Sky News presenter Matt Barbet interrupted the channel’s regular programming to report on a breaking story involving U.S. President Donald Trump and Iran. During the interruption, Barbet addressed the camera, announcing, “Breaking news to bring you now coming out of Iran.” He then displayed a social media post from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, which criticized Trump’s recent threats. Pezeshkian’s message stated, “The illusion of erasing Iran from the map shows desperation against the will of a history-making nation. Threats and terror only strengthen our unity, the Strait of Hormuz is open to all, except those who violate our soil. We firmly confront delirious threats on the battlefield.” Barbet summarized the post, noting that it appeared to be a response to Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Trump’s threat, posted on his Truth Social account, warned that Iran would face “hit and obliterate” its power plants, starting with the largest one, if it did not comply. Within an hour of Trump’s statement, Iran retaliated through its state-affiliated news network Fars. A spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters (KACHQ), Iran’s highest military command, declared that if the U.S. or regional regimes attacked Iran’s energy infrastructure, all U.S. and regional energy, information technology, and desalination facilities would be targeted. KACHQ oversees joint operations between Iran’s military and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The situation follows statements from G7 foreign ministers, who condemned Iran’s attacks on energy infrastructure in several Gulf states, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, and Iraq.#donald_trump #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian #sky_news #matt_barbet
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict in the Middle East during a telephone conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, marking their first direct contact since the war began last month. The call followed a series of attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which a fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) passes. Modi emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy to address the crisis, while highlighting India's commitment to peace and stability. The conflict, triggered by the assassination of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on February 28, has led to widespread attacks on Israeli and U.S. military targets in the Gulf region, including Dubai and Doha. Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz has been severely disrupted, with three additional vessels attacked near the United Arab Emirates and Iraq. India, the world's second-largest buyer of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), relies heavily on this route for 90% of its imports, leading to cooking gas shortages in Indian restaurants. Modi reassured the public that there was "no need to panic" and announced a government committee to address supply issues. Modi has also engaged with leaders of Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Israel, and Qatar in recent days, expressing concern over attacks on their territories and condemning violations of sovereignty. Over 1 crore Indians reside in the Gulf and West Asia, with more than 40,000 living in Israel and around 10,000 in Iran. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that approximately 9,000 Indian nationals, including students, professionals, and pilgrims, are in Iran and receiving assistance amid safety concerns.#iran #india #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian #narendra_modi
Explosions near Tehran al-Quds Day march in solidarity with Palestinians Explosions rocked Tehran during an annual al-Quds Day rally, where thousands gathered to show support for Palestinians and protest Israeli occupation. At least one person was killed in the blasts, which occurred amid ongoing US-Israeli attacks on Iran. The incidents took place as demonstrators marched through the capital, marking the day’s commemoration of Jerusalem and solidarity with the Palestinian cause. A major explosion in Ferdowsi Square, a central location for the rally, was reported by Iranian state television. The blast occurred shortly after Israel had warned people to clear the area ahead of a planned strike. Press TV cited an airstrike as the cause, stating that a woman was killed by shrapnel. However, no further details about the attack’s origin or casualties were provided. Iran’s Health Ministry reported that over 1,444 people had been killed and 18,551 injured since February 28 due to US-Israeli attacks. Al Jazeera Arabic noted another air strike near a protest gathering in Tehran, though the exact location and casualty count remained unclear. Despite the violence, crowds turned out in Tehran and other cities, as reported by state media. Al-Quds Day, also known as “Quds Day,” is an international observance supporting Palestine and opposing Israeli occupation. The event has been held in Iran since 1979, following its declaration by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, Iran’s founder. President Masoud Pezeshkian and Supreme National Security Council secretary Ali Larijani attended the rally in Tehran. Larijani claimed Israel’s attacks on the day were driven by fear, while criticizing US President Donald Trump for lacking awareness of Iran’s resilience.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #tehran #ali_larijani #al_quds_day
Iran sets three conditions for talks with US as Middle East war rages on As the conflict between Iran and the United States intensifies, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has suggested that Tehran may be open to resuming negotiations with Washington, but only under specific conditions. Pezeshkian recently engaged with leaders from Russia and Pakistan, signaling that diplomatic channels could potentially reopen despite the ongoing war. According to Iranian officials, any renewed dialogue with the U.S. would require three key demands to be met: recognition of Iran’s sovereign rights, reparations for damages caused during the conflict, and assurances that future military aggression will not occur. Iranian leaders have expressed skepticism about the U.S.’s intentions, citing years of mistrust and the current war as factors that have eroded confidence in negotiations. The conflict has spread violence across the Gulf and the eastern Mediterranean, with attacks on shipping routes and critical infrastructure. A container ship near the United Arab Emirates was struck by a projectile, causing a small fire but leaving the crew unharmed. In the Strait of Hormuz, three crew members remained trapped aboard a Thai bulk carrier after it was hit, highlighting the growing risks to global shipping. Regional tensions escalated further with attacks on fuel tanks in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia intercepting drones targeting strategic areas, including one heading toward the Shaybah oil field. Kuwait also reported intercepting multiple drones. Israel claimed Iranian missiles were launched toward its territory, prompting air defense deployments. In response, Israeli forces conducted “wide-scale” strikes in Tehran and against Hezbollah positions in Beirut, resulting in casualties among displaced families sheltering in the area.#iran #united_states #brent_crude #strait_of_hormuz #masoud_pezeshkian
Iran War Live: Iraq Shuts Down Oil Port Operations; Israel Bombs Beirut Iraq has suspended operations at its oil ports following attacks on two foreign oil tankers, according to reports. The strikes, which targeted vessels operated by international energy companies, have prompted regional allies including Bahrain, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia to intercept additional Iranian missiles and drones. The developments come amid escalating tensions in the region, with Israel conducting airstrikes in Beirut and Iran’s president outlining demands for an end to the conflict. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for three conditions to halt the war: recognition of Tehran’s “legitimate rights,” compensation for damages inflicted by Iranian actions, and international assurances against future aggression. These statements follow a series of military confrontations, including the bombing of a Beirut neighborhood by Israeli forces, which killed at least 15 people. The attack occurred days after the funeral of Father Pierre al-Rahi, a priest who died from injuries sustained during an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon. The funeral in Qlayaa drew mourners who criticized the violence, with medics and first responders confirming the priest’s death. Meanwhile, Iraq’s decision to halt oil port operations has raised concerns about the impact on regional energy supplies. Analysts suggest the move may be a strategic response to the attacks, which have disrupted critical infrastructure and heightened fears of further escalation. The conflict has seen rapid shifts in military activity, with Iran and its allies intensifying strikes against Israeli and U.S. targets, while Israel and its partners have responded with precision bombings.#iran #iraq #masoud_pezeshkian #beirut #iranian_president
Iran's new leader has never been tested. He now faces an existential battle Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, has ascended to the position of Iran's third supreme leader since the 1979 revolution, succeeding his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in an Israeli strike. The new leader, who has never held a prominent public role, now faces a critical challenge as the Islamic Republic confronts a conflict that many view as its most severe in five decades. His rise to power is marked by both continuity and controversy, as he inherits a system under immense pressure from external threats and internal dissent. Khamenei's selection by the Assembly of Experts, a body of 88 Shia clerics, was celebrated by large crowds who chanted "Allahu Akbar" in the streets. Security forces pledged unwavering loyalty to the new leader, with state media depicting him as a figure of command. However, the transition has not been without resistance. Some protesters who had previously criticized his father's leadership now openly oppose Khamenei, chanting "Death to Mojtaba!" in the same streets where they once rallied against his father. The new leader's path to power is deeply personal. He lost his father, mother, wife, and son in the Israeli strike that killed Ayatollah Khamenei. The attack, which occurred during a period of heightened tensions, has left Khamenei with a profound sense of loss and a desire for retribution. His family's suffering has intensified his resolve to lead, even as he faces scrutiny from both domestic and international actors. Khamenei's leadership is also shaped by his long-standing ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a powerful institution that has expanded its influence over Iran's security and economic systems.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #ayatollah_ali_khamenei #islamic_revolutionary_guard_corps #mojtaba_khamenei
Pezeshkian grilled after apologizing for ‘fire at will’ strikes on neighbors Iranian political and media figures criticized President Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday after he apologized for what he described as “fire at will” attacks by Iran’s armed forces on neighboring countries. Pezeshkian announced that the temporary leadership council had ordered the military to cease targeting neighboring nations and to halt missile strikes unless an attack on Iran originated from those countries. He emphasized that the armed forces had previously operated under a “fire at will” directive but were now instructed to avoid such actions. Pezeshkian also issued a personal apology for the situation. Lawmakers and officials responded with sharp criticism, accusing the president of undermining national defense. Mohammad Manan Raeisi, a Qom representative, called the apology “humiliating” and questioned the need for the Assembly of Experts to select a new leader. He argued that Iran’s military had a justified role in striking enemy assets in neighboring countries, including those supporting adversaries. Ebrahim Azizi, head of the parliament’s national security committee, stated that all U.S. and Israeli bases in the region were “legitimate targets” in the ongoing conflict, asserting that Iran’s defense of national interests had no red lines. Media figures also expressed skepticism about Pezeshkian’s message. Ezzatollah Zarghami, a former culture minister, claimed the apology created confusion about Iran’s military conduct. He noted that neither the armed forces nor the regional conflict described by the “martyred imam” could be interpreted in multiple ways. Another critic, Nili, accused the president of showing weakness, arguing that an apology implied a mistake, which he claimed did not exist.#iran #masoud_pezeshkian #mohammad_manan_raeisi #ezzatollah_zarghami #ezra_zarif
Iran President Apologizes for Strikes on Neighboring Countries, Attributes Attacks to Miscommunication Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian announced on Saturday that his government had approved a temporary suspension of attacks against neighboring countries, contingent on Iran facing an attack from those nations. The decision followed a series of strikes by Iran on regional targets, which the president described as the result of internal miscommunication rather than deliberate aggression. Pezeshkian also issued an apology for the attacks, emphasizing Iran’s commitment to halting further hostilities. The announcement came amid ongoing tensions in the region, as Iran continued its military operations in response to U.S.-backed Israeli strikes on the country. Pezeshkian’s remarks were delivered in a prerecorded address broadcast by state television, where he criticized the United States for demanding Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” calling the demand a “dream that they should take to their grave.” The president’s comments underscored Iran’s refusal to comply with U.S. demands, framing the conflict as a defensive struggle rather than an offensive campaign. The situation escalated further as U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration approved a $151 million arms sale to Israel, signaling continued support for Tel Aviv’s military actions. Trump’s stance, which included a refusal to negotiate with Iran without its “unconditional surrender,” prompted U.S. officials to warn of an impending bombing campaign, described as the most intense in the conflict’s history. Meanwhile, Iran’s UN Ambassador reiterated the country’s resolve to defend itself, stating that Tehran would “take all necessary measures” to protect its sovereignty.#united_states #israel #donald_trump #masoud_pezeshkian #iran_president
Iran War Escalates as Trump Threatens Escalation, Tehran Apologizes to Gulf Neighbors The conflict between Iran and the United States has intensified, with President Donald Trump signaling a potential escalation of military actions against Iran. In a televised address, Trump warned that Iran “will be hit very hard” this weekend, with new areas of the country under consideration for “complete destruction and certain death.” Iranian officials have responded by vowing to continue targeting U.S. assets in retaliation for attacks on their territory. Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued an apology to neighboring Gulf states, acknowledging that Tehran’s strikes had caused harm. However, he emphasized that Iran would continue targeting areas where U.S. attacks originate. Fresh strikes were reported in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Saturday, with sirens sounding across the region and security alerts sent to mobile phones in Doha, Qatar. Despite the apology, Iranian military officials confirmed that missile and drone attacks on U.S. and Gulf targets had resumed. The escalation coincided with the one-week anniversary of the killing of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in strikes by the United States and Israel. Pezeshkian, a reformist leader, has repeatedly expressed regret over the country’s economic decline, the deaths of protesters during demonstrations, and government inefficiencies. In his latest statement, he defended Iran’s military actions, claiming they were necessary to “defend our homeland with dignity and strength.” However, tensions remain within Iran’s leadership, as the Revolutionary Guards have independently launched attacks, raising questions about whether the Leadership Council, which Pezeshkian now belongs to, aligns with the goals of the armed forces.#iran #united_states #donald_trump #supreme_leader_ali_khamenei #masoud_pezeshkian
Trump Labels Iran 'Loser of the Middle East' Amid Escalating Tensions US President Donald Trump on Saturday denounced Iran as the "loser of the Middle East" in a post on Truth Social, following Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s apology to neighboring countries for attacks during the ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States. Trump claimed Iran had "surrendered" to its neighbors after apologizing and promising not to launch further attacks unless provoked. The Republican leader also warned that Iran would face "very hard" retaliation, asserting that the Islamic Republic had been "beat to HELL" and was no longer the "Bully of the Middle East." In his social media post, Trump accused Iran of seeking to dominate the region and described the country as a "loser" destined to remain in that position for decades unless it "surrendered" or collapsed. He further demanded "unconditional surrender" from Iran as the only acceptable path to end hostilities, promising to assist in rebuilding the country’s economy if Tehran complied and replaced its leadership. "We will bring Iran back from the brink of destruction, making it economically bigger, better, and stronger than ever before," Trump stated. Pezeshkian, however, emphasized that Iran would not "surrender" and reiterated his government’s stance that attacks on neighboring countries would only occur if Iran itself faced aggression. In a separate statement, he apologized for past strikes but conditioned the apology on the premise that Iran’s enemies would "take their wish for the surrender of the Iranian people to their graves." The conflict has seen intensified military actions, with the US and Israel launching strikes targeting Iran’s military infrastructure, leadership, and nuclear facilities.#iran #donald_trump #masoud_pezeshkian #truth_social #us_treasury_secretary_scott_bessent
