WAR OF THE WORDS Trump vows ‘no ceasefire’ until ‘total victory’ over Iran & holds crunch war room talks over striking key nuke base

DONALD Trump has declared he only wants a “total and complete victory” against Iran and is no longer interested in a ceasefire.

It comes as Tehran warned the US will be sparking an “all out war” in the Middle East if they join Israel in dropping bombs on Iranian nuclear sites.

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4 Donald Trump has declared he only wants a ‘total and complete victory’ against Iran and is no longer interested in a ceasefire Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

4 A still image released by Iranian media that shows a missile being fired towards Israel Credit: Reuters

4 Smoke rises from a fire in Tehran as the Israel-Iran air war continues

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The US president is yet to say if he will directly launch an attack but is reportedly considering striking Iran’s key underground nuclear site in the coming days.

Trump has become heavily involved in the conflict over the last 48 hours with him speaking on the potential airstrikes today as he said: “I may do it, I may not do it.”

It is believed that the US may choose to back Israeli strikes on Iran’s Fordow nuclear development area, according to the Telegraph.

This would likely be done by a fearsome 15-ton mega bomb known as a Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bomb that can penetrate deep inside the ground before blowing up.

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Speaking to reporters from the Oval Office Trump did say the US is the only nation capable of blitzing the key nuke site.

But he added: “That doesn’t mean I’m going to do it – at all.”

Trump also gave a two-word warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader after he revealed Tehran was trying to run back to the negotiating table since the conflict broke out.

When a White House reporter asked Trump about Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s declaration that he will “never surrender”, Trump simply responded: “Good luck.”

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Trump even stepped up his rhetoric towards Khamenei as he said the US knows where he is hiding but will not kill him “for now”.

Khamenei responded to the constant threats by saying: “The battle begins.”

He warned that the US will face hell if it enters the war and drops a single bomb on Tehran.

“This nation will never surrender,” Khamenei said in a speech read on state television.

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“America should know that any military intervention will undoubtedly result in irreparable damage.”

Trump is said to be still deliberating with his officials over if he should enter the war.

His cabinet held a crisis meeting in the White House Situation Room on Wednesday which lasted for 80 minutes.

US officials indicated the next 24 to 48 hours will be crucial in determining whether diplomacy could ever be achieved with Iran, ABC News reports.

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It comes as warmongering Russia ironically warned the world sits “on the brink of catastrophe” as the raging Middle East conflict entered day six.

Stay up to date with the latest on Israel vs Iran with The Sun’s live blog below…

In Iran: At least 224 people killed In Israel: 24 people killed

Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that the U.S. knows the location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, calling him an “easy target” but saying they won’t kill him — “at least not for now.”

He warned Iran against attacking civilians or U.S. troops, saying American patience is running out. In a follow-up post, Trump demanded Iran’s “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER.”

We have total Control Of Skies Over Iran

US President Donald Trump seeks a “real end” to the conflict, not just a temporary truce.

He left the G7 summit early but denied it was to negotiate a ceasefire.

Claimed “something much bigger” is underway.

Warned Iranians to evacuate Tehran, highlighting risks to the city’s 10 million residents.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu claims their strikes have significantly set back Iran’s nuclear program. Israel has targeted three major Iranian nuclear facilities. The extent of the damage remains unclear.

Israel Iran Attack Updates: In a significant escalation on Tuesday night, Iran fired Fattah-1 hypersonic missiles at Israel. In a post on X, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei wrote, “the battle begins”, as the barrage of missile strikes against Israel continued.The live coverage of the Israel-Iran news has been moved here: Click The six-day conflict has taken a grim toll, with Iran suffering the brunt of the casualties—at least 224 people dead, including 70 women and children, and 1,277 injured, according to official figures. In Israel, the death toll stands between 18 and 20, with more than 390 wounded as emergency crews continue to search through the wreckage in several cities.The countries at G7 Summit called on to end the tensions with similar views against Ira’s nuclear enrichment programme. As for the latest, clouds of smoke seen in Western Iran, news agencies reported, shortly after Israel claimed fresh wave of attacks.In a televised address following the airstrikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel had launched a “targeted military operation” aimed at countering what he called an existential threat from Iran.Iran retaliated late on Friday by unleashing scores of ballistic missiles on Israel, where explosions flared in the skies over Jerusalem and Tel Aviv and shook the buildings below. “We will not allow them to escape safely from this great crime they committed,” Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in a recorded message in which he vowed revenge.Israel and Iran continue exchanging strikes for the fifth consecutive day.Civilians in conflict zones are facing repeated attacks. Israel has asked citizens to take shelters as the fight is expected to continue.

Israel Iran Conflict LIVE Updates: Israel and Iran continued their deadly exchange as a new wave of missiles and drones as strikes struck key targets across Iran, pushing the nationwide death toll to nearly 600. The strikes have triggered alarm across the region. read more

US President Donald Trump on Sunday urged Iran and Israel to “make a deal” and bring their deadly exchange of strikes to an end. “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal,” Trump said on his Truth Social media platform, adding that there are “many calls and meetings now taking place” on the issue and that peace could be achieved “soon” between the longtime adversaries.

When asked whether he had decided to launch an attack, Trump said, “I may do it, I may not.” He added, “The next week is going to be very big — maybe even sooner.” He also reiterated that Iran must completely abandon its nuclear ambitions without any conditions.

One possible US target is Iran’s Fordow enrichment facility, a heavily fortified site built deep underground. Experts say only extremely powerful bombs would be capable of destroying it.

US President Donald Trump has told his top aides that he has approved a plan to strike Iran but has not yet given the final order, according to The Wall Street Journal. Trump stated that he wants to see whether Iran will halt its nuclear programme before taking further action.

In a post on X, the Israeli Air Force announced that it had initiated “a wave of attacks in Tehran and other areas,” though it did not provide further details about the specific targets.

The Israeli Air Force has confirmed that the military is currently carrying out a series of strikes in Tehran and other parts of Iran, as reported by the BBC.

The reason for the warning has not been officially disclosed, but it comes amid ongoing Israeli military operations inside Iranian territory.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued an evacuation warning to residents of Arak and Khandab in Iran, according to a report by Reuters.

“This is not an uncommon practice. Force protection is the priority,” the official said.

One official confirmed that US naval vessels were relocated from a port in Bahrain, home to the Navy’s 5th Fleet, while aircraft not sheltered in hardened structures were moved from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar.

The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the move was part of precautionary steps to protect American forces in the region. They did not disclose how many assets were moved or their new locations.

The United States has moved some of its military aircraft and naval vessels from bases in the Middle East that could be vulnerable to an Iranian attack, two US officials told Reuters on Wednesday.

The strikes come shortly after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that air defence systems had been activated over the capital.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed that the Israeli Air Force is conducting multiple airstrikes on Tehran and several other locations across Iran, CNN reported early Thursday.

The statement, published by state-run KCNA, described Israel’s actions as “state-sponsored terrorism” and warned they were increasing the risk of a full-scale war in the Middle East.

North Korea on Thursday strongly condemned Israel for launching strikes that it says sparked the current conflict with Iran, warning the United States and European powers against “fanning the flames of war,” according to a statement from its foreign ministry.

“Our Iranian friends have not asked us about this,” Putin told an AFP reporter during a televised press conference in Saint Petersburg.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Iran has not sought military assistance from Moscow amid its escalating conflict with Israel.

Wong described the situation as “increasingly dangerous” and urged Iran to halt its nuclear weapons programme and return to negotiations. “Iran has a choice here… to discontinue its programme and to return to talks,” she said.

Australia has begun evacuating its citizens from Israel amid rising tensions in the Middle East, CNN reported. Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that a small group was evacuated by land on Wednesday, with more expected to follow within the next 24 hours.

Citing growing violence, the embassy warned, “The Israel-Iran conflict continues to intensify, with increasing casualties. The possibility of further deterioration cannot be ruled out.”

The operation will transport Chinese nationals by bus to the Taba Border Crossing into Egypt, located about 360 kilometres from Tel Aviv.

China will begin assisting its citizens in evacuating from Israel to Egypt starting Friday, the Chinese embassy in Israel announced in a notice on Thursday.

A source familiar with the matter said the intelligence community’s position remains unchanged since Gabbard’s testimony. However, the president’s public rebuke has raised questions about whether Gabbard has been sidelined from key decision-making.

Tensions became public this week when Trump pushed back on Gabbard’s March testimony to Congress, in which she stated the U.S. intelligence community did not believe Iran was building a nuclear weapon. That assessment contradicts Trump’s recent warnings about the Iranian nuclear threat.

While Gabbard’s allies acknowledge some friction with the White House, they say the backlash has been exaggerated and do not expect her to resign over Trump’s Iran policy, NBC News reported.

CIA Director Tulsi Gabbard, known for her criticism of past US military interventions, appears to have lost favour with President Donald Trump as he considers military action against Iran, according to multiple senior administration officials.

“They cannot have the weapons that can destroy Israel, which they claim and which they want to do every day,” he added.

Leiter warned of the destructive power of Iranian missiles, saying, “They come cruising out of the sky and create incredible damage. That production capacity has to be eliminated as well.”

Israel’s ambassador to the United States, Yechiel Leiter, said on Wednesday that Iran’s capacity to produce ballistic missiles must be eliminated alongside its nuclear weapons programme, CNN reported.

The July contract expires on Friday. The more actively traded August contract declined 21 cents, or 0.29 per cent, to $73.29 a barrel.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude for July delivery fell 28 cents, or 0.37 per cent, to $74.86 a barrel. The contract had risen 0.4 per cent in the prior session, despite an earlier drop of 2.4 per cent.

Brent crude futures dropped 37 cents, or 0.48 per cent, to $76.33 a barrel by 0110 GMT, after gaining 0.3 per cent in a volatile previous session that saw prices swing by as much as 2.7 per cent.

Oil prices edged lower on Thursday as investors remained cautious following mixed signals from US President Donald Trump regarding possible American involvement in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

“There are real limits, hard limits, on what the government can do. The airspace remains closed,” Wong told reporters. She advised Australians in Iran to leave if it is safe to do so or otherwise shelter in place.

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said on Thursday that around 1,500 Australians in Iran and 1,200 in Israel have registered for help. A small group was evacuated from Israel via a land crossing on Wednesday, and further options are being explored.

Australia has evacuated a small group of its citizens from Israel, while New Zealand has withdrawn embassy staff from Iran, as both governments face challenges in assisting thousands more due to restricted airspace in the region.

Authorities have urged residents to take shelter immediately and remain in bomb shelters “until further notice.”

“Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat,” the IDF said in a statement.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported a new wave of missiles launched from Iran on Thursday, triggering air raid sirens across the country.

The IDF stated that the Israeli Air Force is actively working to intercept the incoming missiles and strike where necessary to neutralise the threat.

Loud explosions were heard in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, AFP reported, shortly after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed missile launches from Iran and activated sirens across several areas.

In response, Israeli authorities instructed civilians to remain in bomb shelters until further notice for their safety.

🚨Millions of Israel across the country are currently running to shelter as sirens sound due to a missile launch from Iran🚨 pic.twitter.com/5HqmbUOmtZ

The Israeli military said the latest round of airstrikes targeted Tehran and other locations in Iran. Following the strikes, Iran launched a fresh wave of missiles at Israel, prompting authorities to instruct the public to take shelter.

Earlier in the day, Israel had issued a warning via a post on X, urging civilians to leave the area. The message included a satellite image of the reactor marked in red, similar to past strike alerts.

Israel has attacked Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor, Iranian state television reported on Thursday. Authorities stated there was “no radiation danger whatsoever” and confirmed the facility had been evacuated before the strike.

Several hits were identified as a result of the missile barrage—one of them hitting the largest hospital in southern Israel. https://t.co/G29iJqGyiH

“Several hits were identified as a result of the missile barrage — one of them hitting the largest hospital in southern Israel,” the IDF said in a post on X, shortly after air raid sirens were activated across the country

Iranian missiles struck several locations in Israel late Thursday, including the largest hospital in the country’s south, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

With over 1,000 beds, Soroka serves around one million residents across southern Israel, according to its website.

A spokesperson for the hospital, located in Be’er Sheba, confirmed that multiple areas of the facility were damaged and urged the public not to come in for treatment.

Israel’s Soroka Medical Center, the largest hospital in the country’s south, suffered a direct hit from an Iranian missile on Thursday, causing extensive damage and injuring several people, officials said.

Footage from Reuters showed a damaged multi-storey building in Tel Aviv, with debris scattered on the road and emergency responders cordoning off the area.

Israeli search and rescue teams are active across multiple locations following reports of fallen projectiles from Iran’s latest missile barrage, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, Israel had issued a public warning urging civilians to evacuate the site ahead of the strike.

Iranian state television confirmed on Thursday that Israel struck the Arak heavy water reactor but said there was “no radiation danger whatsoever.” Authorities added that the facility had already been evacuated before the attack.

Israel’s Soroka Medical Center, the largest hospital in the country’s south, sustained heavy damage after being hit by Iranian missiles, officials confirmed. The hospital, located in Be’er Sheba, serves nearly one million residents.

The Israel Defense Forces said Homefront Command Search and Rescue teams have been deployed to multiple impact sites across the country to assess damage and assist civilians.

Iran launched “dozens” of ballistic missiles at Israel on Thursday morning, resulting in “several hits” on civilian areas, including the Soroka Medical Center in southern Israel, according to an Israeli military official.

IRNA claimed that the hospital sustained only minor damage from the shockwave, emphasising that “the military infrastructure was a precise and direct target.”

Iranian state news agency IRNA reported that Thursday morning’s missile barrage was aimed primarily at the Israeli army’s Command and Intelligence (IDF C4I) headquarters and a military intelligence camp located in the Gav-Yam Technology Park near Soroka Hospital in Beersheba.

According to a Tel Aviv hospital, three of the injured are in serious condition.

At least 16 people were injured in Tel Aviv after Iranian missiles struck a high-rise apartment building and other locations in central Israel, the Associated Press reported.

Israel’s emergency service Magen David Adom (MDA) said 32 people were injured in the Iranian missile attacks. Reports say that a 60-year-old man was in critical condition following the strikes.

Sharren Haskel, posting on X, said the site that was struck is “not a military base” but “a hospital”, adding that this was the main medical centre for Israel’s entire Negev region.

The Reuters news agency reported that the site had been hit shortly after Israel warned residents in the Arak-Khondab region to evacuate.

In response, Israeli forces launched strikes at Iran’s Arak heavy-water nuclear reactor, a facility long viewed with concern by Western powers due to its potential to produce plutonium for weapons.

“This morning, Iran’s terrorist tyrants launched missiles at Soroka Hospital in Beersheba and at a civilian population in the center of the country. We will exact the full price from the tyrants in Tehran,” said a translated version of the post.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has issued the following statement on X after the Iranian strikes.

Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization said it has repeatedly reported Israel’s threats and attacks to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), but the UN nuclear watchdog has not taken any action so far, according to a report by IRNA.

Among the targets was a nuclear weapons development site near Natanz. “The site contained components and specialised equipment used to advance nuclear weapons development, and hosted projects aimed at accelerating Iran’s nuclear programme,” the IDF said in a statement.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said its air force struck dozens of military targets across Tehran and other regions of Iran overnight Thursday, using over 100 munitions.

Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization has accused Israel of targeting the Khondab research reactor and heavy water facility, calling the strike a “renewed violation of international law,” according to state news agency IRNA.

At least 47 people have been injured across Israel as a result of Iranian missile strikes, according to Reuters report citing rescue teams responding to multiple impact sites on Thursday.

A video shared by Israel’s official X account showed hospital staff rushing through smoke-filled corridors, with glass shards, broken furniture, and debris scattered throughout. Patients and staff could be seen crying and shouting in the aftermath of the attack.

The strike occurred amid a broader wave of Iranian missile attacks across the country. Israeli media aired footage showing blown-out windows, thick smoke billowing from the hospital, and scenes of chaos inside.

The Iranian regime targeted Soroka Hospital in Beersheba with a ballistic missile—hitting a major medical center. We will not stand by. We will continue doing what must be done to defend our people. pic.twitter.com/4ldeTQhATW

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, said the country has “all necessary options on the table” but insisted that Iran has never welcomed war or sought to escalate conflict, according to ISNA and reported by Reuters.

“If the US wants to actively support Israel, Iran will have no choice but to use its tools to teach the aggressors a lesson and defend itself,” Gharibabadi said, according to Iranian state media. “Our military decision-makers have all necessary options on the table. Our recommendation to the US is to at least stand aside if they cannot stop Israel’s aggression.”

Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, warned the United States against any direct involvement in the ongoing conflict with Israel, saying Iran would respond forcefully if Washington intervenes.

Israel, Iran exchange fresh rounds of missile strikes as the UK gets dragged into the conflict

The terror regime in Tehran committed another war crime today, launching a missile at an Israeli hospital. They deliberately target civilians, and to this day, have murdered only Israeli civilians. Not a single Israeli killed in this war was a soldier. The cowardly regime in… pic.twitter.com/omGHQIokGg

Israel’s defence minister has instructed the military to ramp up the intensity of its attacks on strategic and government sites across Iran, as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate.

Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization stated that prior safety arrangements ensured there were no casualties or risks to nearby residents following the Israeli strike on the Khondab nuclear site.

Rejecting Israel’s accusations, Iran said it did not intentionally target the hospital in Be’er Sheba. According to the state-run IRNA news agency, the intended target was a nearby Israeli military site, and the hospital was affected only by the resulting blast wave.

In a post on X, Katz wrote, “The cowardly Iranian dictator sits in the depths of a fortified bunker and fires aimed shots at hospitals and residential buildings in Israel. These are war crimes of the most serious kind — and Khamenei will be held accountable for his crimes.”

The terror regime in Tehran committed another war crime today, launching a missile at an Israeli hospital. They deliberately target civilians, and to this day, have murdered only Israeli civilians. Not a single Israeli killed in this war was a soldier. The cowardly regime in… pic.twitter.com/omGHQIokGg

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Thursday that he has instructed the Israel Defense Forces to intensify strikes on Iran, holding Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei personally responsible for the missile attack on Soroka hospital.

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The death toll grew Sunday as Israel and Iran exchanged missile attacks for a third consecutive day, with Israel warning that worse is to come.

Israel targeted Iran’s Defense Ministry headquarters in Tehran and sites it alleged were associated with Iran’s nuclear program, while Iranian missiles evaded Israeli air defences and slammed into buildings deep inside Israel.

In Israel, at least 10 people were killed in Iranian strikes overnight and into Sunday, according to Israel’s Magen David Adom rescue service, bringing the country’s total death toll to 13. The country’s main international airport and airspace remained closed for a third day. There was no update to an Iranian death toll released the day before by Iran’s UN ambassador, who said 78 people had been killed and more than 320 wounded.

The region braced for a drawn-out conflict after Israel’s strikes hit nuclear and military facilities, killing several senior generals and top nuclear scientists. President Donald Trump said the US had “nothing to do with the attack on Iran” and warned Tehran to expect “the full strength and might of the US Armed Forces” if it retaliates against the United States.

Continuous updates; facts and sources are still being cross-checked.

Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.

President Donald Trump has privately approved war plans against Iran as the country is lobbing attacks back and forth with Israel, The Wall Street Journal reported. But the president is holding off on issuing a final order for now, the paper reported, citing people familiar with the deliberations. Hostilities between Iran and Israel have continued intensifying amid a new wave of strikes from the Israeli Air Force on Thursday local time, as Trump weighs potential U.S. involvement and European countries plan to hold talks with Iran in Geneva about a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. What to Know: A government plane evacuated diplomats and family members who requested to leave on Wednesday, according to two U.S. officials, per The Associated Press.

U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee later announced that the embassy is arranging evacuation flights and cruise ships for private American citizens.

The State Department confirmed that personnel are departing through various means under the embassy’s authorized departure status.

Israel and Iran have closed their airspaces, making evacuation efforts more challenging for foreign nationals.

Concerns grow over potential U.S. military involvement, as President Donald Trump weighs options on Iran’s nuclear program. The live blog is now closed.

10:42 PM EDT Trump Approves Iran War Plans, Waits to Pull Trigger: Report President Donald Trump has privately approved war plans against Iran as the country is lobbing attacks back and forth with Israel, The Wall Street Journal reported. But the president is holding off on issuing a final order for now, the paper reported, citing people familiar with the deliberations. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump said, “Maybe we won’t have to fight,” when asked about Iran. “I’m not looking to fight. But if it’s a choice between fighting and them having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do,” he said. The president then met in the Situation Room on Wednesday afternoon after telling reporters he had “ideas” about what to do regarding Iran. The Journal reports that multiple options are on the table, according to a senior White House official. The president will continue monitoring how the Israelis proceed, an official said.

09:44 PM EDT US Embassy In Jerusalem: No Update On Assisting Americans Looking to Flee The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem on Thursday morning local time announced that it still has no information for private U.S. citizens seeking to flee the country as airports and seaports remain closed “We have no announcement about assisting private U.S. citizens to depart at this time,” the embassy wrote in a statement posted on the State Department website and dated for June 19. “The Department of State is always planning for contingencies to assist with private U.S. citizens’ departure from crisis areas,” the statement continued. “We will alert the U.S. citizen community if there is additional information to share regarding departure options. U.S. citizens should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive the latest updates.” The notice highlighted that while other options remain unavailable, there is still a land crossing to Jordan was open on Wednesday in three limited windows and that long lines and delays should be expected.

09:28 PM EDT Israeli Air Force Begins New Wave of Strikes on Tehran, Other Areas The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in a post on X announced that its Air Force has begun fresh strikes on Tehran and other areas in Iran as the conflict between the two countries enters its seventh day. Pro-Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) accounts on Telegram also reported that Tehran’s air defense systems had activated around the same time. The move comes as President Donald Trump continues to weigh whether to involve the U.S. in the conflict, potentially taking aim at Iran’s nuclear facilities in a bid to prevent the country from being able to develop a nuclear weapon. The IDF had only an hour earlier announced that the Air Force had intercepted a drone launched by Iran, activating alerts in Israel to warn residents of “the intrusion of a hostile aircraft” in the early hours of Thursday morning local time. Update 6/18/25, 9:58 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.

07:54 PM EDT Trump Shares Details of His Private Call With Tucker Carlson About Iran President Donald Trump meets with members of the Juventus soccer club in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Washington. President Donald Trump meets with members of the Juventus soccer club in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in Washington. Alex Brandon/AP President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that he recently spoke on the phone with right-wing commentator and media personality Tucker Carlson about the rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and Iran and whether the United States would get involved. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump said Carlson had reached out to him to apologize for some comments he made deriding those in the administration and the MAGA sphere who have cheered Israel’s strikes against Iran. “Tucker’s a nice guy,” Trump said. “He called and apologized the other day because he thought he said things that were a little bit too strong and I appreciated that.” Trump’s typically ironclad MAGA coalition has splintered since last week, when Israel launched a series of strikes that took out top Iranian military and intelligence leaders, nuclear sites and key nuclear scientists. Read the full story by Sonam Sheth on Newsweek.

07:34 PM EDT Former Israeli Defense Minister Hails ‘Tremendous Achievement’ in Iran Former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in an interview with CNN on Wednesday evening hailed his nation’s attack on Iran as a “tremendous achievement” that has set back the country’s nuclear program “a few years.” He also joined the chorus of Israeli officials urging the United States to assist in the offensive, saying: “In order to create a better future for the Middle East, not only for Israel, for all the countries in the Gulf and elsewhere in the Middle East and basically in the world, there is a potential for the United States to be involved.” “I believe that President Trump that already have shown time and again that he is a courageous and bold and know how to create the shield decisions in difficult times he will pick this, this opportunity,” Gallant said. Gallant served as the defense minister of Israel for the first year of the country’s offensive in the Gaza Strip, but left his post in November 2024 when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu determined that trust between the two men had “cracked.” “In the midst of a war, more than ever, full trust is required between the prime minister and defense minister,” Netanyahu said in a statement. “Unfortunately, although in the first months of the campaign there was such trust and there was very fruitful work, during the last months this trust cracked between me and the defense minister.”

07:00 PM EDT European Ministers Set For Nuclear Talks With Iranians This Week The foreign ministers of Germany, France, and Britain plan to speak with their Iranian counterparts later this week, with a plan to sit down on Friday in Geneva, according to Reuters, who cited a German diplomatic source. The meeting will follow on from another planned meeting with the European Union’s top diplomat Kaja Kallas at the German permanent mission in Geneva. The source said the talks are not happening in a vacuum but will take place in coordination with the United States with the goal of convincing the Iranians to provide concrete guarantees that the regime will only seek “civilian purposes” for its nuclear energy program. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz earlier this week said the Israeli attacks on Iran had significantly weakened Iranian leadership and may have undermined any chance to regain its former strength, leaving the country’s future “uncertain.” Merz had also underscored his nation’s commitment to a diplomatic solution even as the conflict between Israel and Iran continues to escalate, saying: “If a new situation were to arise, we would again be prepared to provide diplomatic assistance, as we were until last Thursday.” Newsweek reached out to the French Embassy to the United States, the German Federal Foreign Office, the British Foreign Ministry, and the European Union External Action Office by email on Wednesday for comment.

06:39 PM EDT JD Vance’s Bluesky Account Suspended Shortly After Joining Platform Vice President JD Vance announced his arrival on Bluesky on Wednesday evening, posting on the platform at 4:50 p.m. ET: “Hello Bluesky, I have been told this app has become the place to go for common sense political discussion and analysis. So I am thrilled to be here to engage with all of you.” By 6:30 p.m. on the same day, visiting his Bluesky page produced a message saying “Account has been suspended.” However, by 7:00 p.m. ET, the account had been unsuspended and displayed his original posts. An explanation of what happened is pending. Just set up my page on @bluesky, hope to see you guys there! pic.twitter.com/5cgjyMF8su — JD Vance (@JDVance) June 18, 2025 Vance’s first post, which he screenshot and shared on X, discussed the most recent Supreme Court decision, which addressed a challenge to Tennessee’s ban on providing puberty blockers and hormone treatments to minors. “To that end, I found Justice Thomas’s concurrence on medical care for transgender youth quite illuminating. He argues that many of our so called “experts” have used bad arguments and substandard science to push experimental therapies on our youth.” ” I might add that many of those scientists are receiving substantial resources from Big Pharma to push these medicines on kids,” Vance added. “What do you think?” Newsweek reached out to Bluesky and the White House by email for comment on Wednesday evening. Update 6/18/25, 7:29 p.m. ET: This article has been updated with additional information.

05:59 PM EDT WATCH: Netanyahu thanks Trump ‘for standing by Israel’

05:48 PM EDT North Korea condemns Israel’s strikes on Iran, warns of wider conflict North Korea has denounced Israel’s attacks on Iran, warning that they risk triggering an all-out war in the Middle East, according to state media outlet KCNA. In a statement, North Korea’s foreign ministry described Israel’s actions as an illegal violation of Iran’s sovereignty and a crime against humanity. The ministry further accused the U.S. and Western nations of supporting Israel’s aggression, calling Israel a “cancer-like entity” that threatens regional and global stability. The condemnation comes as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, with concerns growing over potential U.S. involvement in the conflict.

05:12 PM EDT Israel strikes over 20 nuclear-related sites in Tehran The Israeli military confirmed Wednesday that its fighter jets struck more than 20 targets in Tehran, including facilities linked to Iran’s nuclear weapons development program. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the strikes were part of a broader effort to disrupt Iran’s uranium enrichment operations, which the military claims are exceeding civilian-use levels and advancing toward nuclear weapons production. The IDF stated that the targeted sites included centrifuge production facilities, weapons research centers, and missile assembly plants, marking one of the most extensive airstrikes on Iranian soil in recent years.

04:56 PM EDT Iranian Red Crescent deploys 2,700 responders for rescue operations Red Cross building in Aix en Provence, France Red Cross building in Aix en Provence, France Getty Images/Jean-Luc Ichard According to Faisal Mahboob, head of the International Federation of Red Cross in Iran, the Iranian Red Crescent has mobilized over 2,700 responders across 19 provinces to assist in search and rescue efforts. Mahboob stated Wednesday that teams are removing debris and working to recover bodies and rescue those trapped following recent disasters and attacks. The humanitarian response comes amid escalating conflict, with aid workers facing challenging conditions as they provide relief.

04:43 PM EDT Americans in Israel offered flights and cruise departures The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem is organizing evacuation flights and cruise ship departures for American citizens seeking to leave Israel, as the Israel-Iran war continues for a sixth day. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee announced the plan Wednesday, urging Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for updates. The move comes after days of uncertainty, with closed airspaces preventing departures and foreign governments issuing travel warnings. It remains unclear when evacuation flights and cruise ships will depart, but this marks the first official announcement from the State Department confirming U.S. assistance for citizens stranded in Israel.

04:30 PM EDT Trump dismisses concerns over MAGA rift as Iran strike debate intensifies Trump on Wednesday downplayed any notion that his supporters are cooling on him, despite growing divisions within the MAGA movement over potential U.S. military action against Iran. Speaking at the White House, Trump insisted, “My supporters are more in love with me today, and I’m more in love with them, more than they even were at election time.” His remarks come as some of his most vocal allies, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Tucker Carlson, and Charlie Kirk, urge him to resist deeper U.S. involvement in the conflict between Israel and Iran. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon is providing Trump with military options, though he declined to disclose details. Trump remained noncommittal, stating, “I may do it, I may not do it. Nobody knows what I’m going to do.” The debate has exposed fractures within Trump’s coalition, with Steve Bannon acknowledging that while many in the movement oppose intervention, they may ultimately back Trump’s decision.

04:16 PM EDT Trump weighs Iran strike, says military action remains an option President Donald Trump stated Wednesday that he does not want to order a U.S. strike on Iran. Still, he suggested he is prepared to act if necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. “I’m not looking to fight,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, adding, “But if it’s a choice between fighting and having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do.” Trump’s remarks come as Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that any U.S. military action would result in “irreparable damage” for Washington. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon has provided Trump with military options, though he declined to share details. Trump also dismissed concerns about deepening U.S. involvement, insisting that his supporters remain loyal despite the growing debate within his party.

04:03 PM EDT Hegseth says Pentagon ready to execute Trump’s military decisions Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified Wednesday that the Defense Department is prepared to carry out any military decisions made by President Donald Trump. However, he declined to disclose specific plans regarding Iran. Speaking before the Senate Armed Services Committee, Hegseth emphasized that Trump alone holds the authority to make such decisions, stating, “The American people elected him to make these decisions on their behalf, and if and when those decisions are made, the department is prepared to execute.” Hegseth refused to discuss potential military options in a public setting but indicated that he could provide more details in a closed session with lawmakers. His remarks come as Trump weighs U.S. involvement in Israel’s bombing campaign against Iran, fueling speculation about possible military action.

03:50 PM EDT Trump signals tough stance on Iran but leaves room for diplomacy Trump said Wednesday that the U.S. must act if Iran pursues nuclear weapons, but suggested that military conflict may still be avoidable. “If it’s a choice between fighting and them having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do,” Trump told reporters. However, he added, “Maybe we won’t have to fight.”

03:49 PM EDT ICE raids venue of Trump’s former business rival The Delta Downs racetrack in Vinton, Louisiana is owned and operated by Boyd Gaming. The Delta Downs racetrack in Vinton, Louisiana is owned and operated by Boyd Gaming. Courtesy KPLC Federal immigration authorities raided Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel in Vinton, Louisiana, Tuesday as part of a targeted effort to locate undocumented workers within the U.S. racehorse industry. The business is owned by Nevada-based Boyd Gaming. The Boyd family was once considered a rival of President Donald Trump’s business empire, when the then-mogul operated a number of casinos. “Our Company complies fully with federal labor laws, and to our knowledge, no Delta Downs team members were involved in this matter. We will cooperate with law enforcement as requested,” said David Strow, a spokesperson for Boyd Gaming, in a statement to Newsweek. In a lengthy statement about the operation, ICE said it had arrested approximately 84 illegal immigrants at the track, and that at least two had previous criminal records. “An investigation into potential criminal conduct related to the hiring of the illegal aliens remains ongoing and an assessment of whether any civil penalties are appropriate is being conducted,” the ICE statement read. Read the full story by Billal Rahman on Newsweek.

03:36 PM EDT Trump says he hasn’t made final decision on Iran strike Trump said Wednesday that he has not yet made a final decision on whether to order a U.S. strike on Iran, as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said, “I have ideas as to what to do… I like to make the final decision one second before.”

03:22 PM EDT Trump to have meeting on Iran-Israel conflict Reports are surfacing that Trump is set to have a meeting in the Situation Room on the Iran-Israel conflict in an hour. CNN says he has made no final decisions on Iran yet, but “has ideas of what to do.” Trump says he will have a meeting on Iran and Israel in an hour — Michael A. Horowitz (@michaelh992) June 18, 2025

03:15 PM EDT Macron urges end to Israeli strikes, calls for European-led peace initiative French President Emmanuel Macron voiced concerns Wednesday over Israel’s expanding military operations, warning that strikes were increasingly targeting sites unrelated to Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programs. He also highlighted the rising civilian casualties in both Iran and Israel. Macron stressed the urgent need to halt military operations, arguing that continued strikes seriously threaten regional security. He reiterated that a lasting resolution to Iran’s nuclear and missile programs must come through negotiation. To advance diplomatic efforts, Macron instructed France’s foreign minister to coordinate with European partners on a negotiated settlement to end the conflict. The initiative is expected to take shape in the coming days.

03:02 PM EDT U.S. Embassy organizing evacuations for Americans in Israel As the Israel-Iran conflict escalates, some American diplomats have begun leaving Israel, prompting U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee to issue an urgent notice on social media Wednesday. Huckabee announced that the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem is working to arrange evacuation flights and cruise ship departures for American citizens seeking to leave the country. He urged travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates on evacuation efforts. The State Department has not provided a timeline for departures, but the embassy’s announcement follows growing concerns over regional security risks.

01:58 PM EDT Arrow missile claims could set stage for US to enter war: Israeli source The Israeli Iron Dome air defense system fires to intercept missiles during an Iranian attack over Tel Aviv, Israel, early Wednesday June 18, 2025. The Israeli Iron Dome air defense system fires to intercept missiles during an Iranian attack over Tel Aviv, Israel, early Wednesday June 18, 2025. AP Photo/Leo Correa Reports that Israel is running out of missiles critical to its Arrow 3 air defense system are “not true” and are likely being used to set the stage for U.S. involvement in strikes against Iran, an Israeli source has told Newsweek. Speculation about possible involvement by the U.S. in Israeli military action against Iran has intensified in recent days, with President Donald Trump on Wednesday refusing to answer whether he has made a decision. Israel has faced hundreds of missiles and drones launched from Iran since Israeli forces began bombing Iranian nuclear sites and military assets last week. One of the key systems Israel possesses to defeat incoming ballistic missiles are the Arrow 3 and its interceptor missiles. An anonymous U.S. official told The Wall Street Journal in an article published on Wednesday that Israel is now running low on Arrow interceptors. The U.S. has been aware of the problem for months, they said. But an Israeli source with knowledge of the Arrow 3 system told Newsweek that Israel has “enough” Arrow 3 interceptors, adding that planning for this type of scenario was extensive. The source, who was not authorized to speak publicly on the issue, said they believed the claim that Israel was running down its interceptor stocks was engineered to mislead Iran, and possibly tee up U.S. involvement in strikes. Read the full story by Elli Cook on Newsweek.

01:45 PM EDT Cruz and Carlson clash over U.S. role in Israel-Iran conflict Senator Ted Cruz pictured in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on April 02, 2025 in Washington, DC (left) and Tucker Carlson at a Turning Point Action campaign rally at the Gas South Arena on October… Senator Ted Cruz pictured in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on April 02, 2025 in Washington, DC (left) and Tucker Carlson at a Turning Point Action campaign rally at the Gas South Arena on October 23, 2024 in Duluth, Georgia (right). More Win McNamee/Anna Moneymaker/GETTY Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) and conservative media personality Tucker Carlson engaged in a heated exchange over U.S. involvement in Israel’s bombing campaign against Iran, highlighting a growing rift within President Trump’s coalition. During an interview on Carlson’s program, the host challenged Cruz’s hawkish stance, accusing him of ignorance about Iran and questioning his support for regime change. Carlson pressed Cruz on Iran’s population and ethnic makeup, leading to a tense back-and-forth. Cruz later dismissed Carlson’s criticisms, stating on his podcast, “On foreign policy, Tucker has gone bat-crap crazy. He’s gone off the rails.” The confrontation comes as Trump weighs U.S. military action, with Israel requesting American assistance in targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities. The debate has divided Republicans, with Carlson and other isolationists warning against deeper entanglement in the Middle East.

01:21 PM EDT Sanders and Kaine push for congressional approval on U.S. military action Senator Bernie Sanders (D-VT) emphasized Wednesday that any military action against Iran must be approved by Congress, citing the Constitution’s clear mandate that war decisions rest with lawmakers, not the president. His remarks come as Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) introduced a war powers resolution requiring explicit congressional authorization before the U.S. takes direct military action against Iran. Kaine warned that escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran could pull the U.S. into another prolonged conflict, stressing the need for formal debate and approval. The resolution faces uncertain prospects in the Republican-controlled Congress, but lawmakers from both parties have voiced concerns about Trump’s unilateral decision-making on military intervention.

01:04 PM EDT Iran war protests break out in US cities People hold signs as they protest Israel outside the United States Mission to the United Nations building on June 13, 2025 in New York City. People hold signs as they protest Israel outside the United States Mission to the United Nations building on June 13, 2025 in New York City. Michael M. Santiago/GETTY Small demonstrations have taken place in multiple cities across the United States over the past few days urging the Trump administration not to join Israel in military action against Iran. Protests were recorded in San Jose, California, on Tuesday as well as New York City and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Monday, with demonstrators holding up signs such as “hands off Iran.” Newsweek contacted the U.S. State Department for comment on Wednesday via online inquiry form outside regular office hours. On June 13, Israel launched military action against Iran, striking military and nuclear sites across the country. Speaking outside the White House on Wednesday, President Donald Trump refused to rule out the U.S. joining the operation, saying: “Nobody knows what I’m going to do.” The possibility of American military action has already proved controversial with Trump’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) base, with prominent conservative commentators Tucker Carlson and Steve Bannon, Trump’s White House chief strategist in 2017, speaking out against the prospect. Read the full story by James Bickerton on Newsweek.

12:43 PM EDT U.S. Embassy in Israel organizing evacuations for American citizens The U.S. Embassy in Israel is working to arrange evacuation flights and cruise ship departures for American citizens seeking to leave the country amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee announced Wednesday. Huckabee urged Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates on evacuation efforts. However, he did not specify when these departures would begin. The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem remains closed until at least Friday. The State Department has not provided details on the timeline for evacuations. Reports indicate that the U.S. government is actively coordinating efforts to assist citizens in leaving Israel.

12:30 PM EDT U.S. organizing evacuation flights and cruise departures for Americans in Israel The U.S. Embassy in Israel is working to arrange evacuation flights and cruise ship departures for American citizens seeking to leave the country amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced Wednesday. Huckabee urged Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates on evacuation efforts. However, he did not specify when these departures would begin. The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem remains closed until at least Friday. The State Department has not provided details on the timeline for evacuations. Spokesperson Tammy Bruce previously stated that the department would not discuss plans to support evacuations, but emphasized its commitment to the safety of Americans worldwide. A task force has been established to monitor the conflict and assist U.S. citizens in the region.

12:15 PM EDT Israel claims destruction of Iran’s internal security headquarters Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Wednesday that Israel’s air force has destroyed Iran’s internal security headquarters, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. Katz shared the news on X, stating, “The tornado continues to hit Tehran. As we promised — we will continue to harm symbols of government and strike at the Ayatollah regime everywhere.” However, he did not provide evidence to support the claim. The strike comes as Israel expands its military operations, targeting the Iranian government and security infrastructure. Iran has yet to respond to the latest attack, but tensions between the two nations remain high. סופת הטורנדו ממשיכה להכות בטהרן.

מטוסי חיל האוויר השמידו עכשיו את מפקדת ביטחון הפנים של המשטר האיראני – זרוע הדיכוי המרכזית של הדיקטטור האיראני.

כפי שהבטחנו – נמשיך לפגוע בסמלי שלטון ונכה במשטר האייתולות בכל מקום. — ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) June 18, 2025

11:46 AM EDT Trump weighs U.S. involvement in Israel’s bombing campaign against Iran President Donald Trump stated Wednesday that the United States may join Israel’s bombing campaign against Iran—but also may not, leaving global leaders and citizens uncertain about the next steps in the escalating conflict. Speaking at the White House, Trump declared, “Nobody knows what I’m going to do,” as speculation mounted over whether the U.S. would intervene militarily. Israel has requested U.S. assistance, particularly in deploying advanced weaponry to cripple Iran’s nuclear program. Just a day earlier, Trump issued strong warnings to Iran, urging Tehran’s residents to evacuate and making veiled threats against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He blamed Iran’s leadership for the violence, arguing that negotiations should have happened sooner to prevent Israel’s strikes. Trump’s public deliberation over military action has divided the Republican Party, with figures like Tucker Carlson and Stephen K. Bannon warning against U.S. involvement. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance reassured skeptics, stating that Trump is focused on protecting American interests.

11:29 AM EDT Hegseth declines to confirm U.S. strike plans in Senate hearing During a Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) hearing on Wednesday, Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) pressed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on whether he had been asked to provide military options for U.S. strikes against Iran. Hegseth declined to answer, saying he “wouldn’t disclose that” publicly. He emphasized that such discussions would be reserved for a classified briefing, reinforcing the sensitive nature of potential military operations. In SASC hearing just now, Sen. Shaheen (D-NH) asked Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth whether he’s been asked to provide military options to the president for US strikes against Iran.

Hegseth declines to answer, says he “wouldn’t disclose that” in a public Senate hearing. — Jared Szuba (@JM_Szuba) June 18, 2025

11:16 AM EDT Trump acknowledges divisions among supporters over Iran intervention President Donald Trump admitted Wednesday that some of his supporters oppose U.S. military involvement in Iran, while others strongly back his stance. “I may have some people that are a little bit unhappy now, but I have some people that are very happy,” Trump said, acknowledging competing views within his base. CNN has reported that Trump is navigating internal party divisions, with some Republicans urging caution while others push for decisive action. Pressed on concerns about a prolonged conflict, Trump reiterated his firm stance: “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. I’m not looking long term, short term. And I’ve been saying that for 20 years.” Earlier, Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) voiced opposition to deeper U.S. involvement, stating, “We don’t need another endless war in the Middle East.”

11:05 AM EDT Trump gave what he calls ‘the ultimate ultimatum’ in relation to Iran Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump was asked if he had given the Iranians an ultimatum. “Ahhhh, you could say so,” he said. “Maybe you could call it the ultimate ultimatum.” Q: Did you give the Iranians an ultimatum?

TRUMP: Ahhhh — you could say so. Maybe you could call it the ultimate ultimatum pic.twitter.com/Pwgph6z79I — Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) June 18, 2025

10:50 AM EDT Trump says Iran made ‘very late’ White House request U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran has reached out to him and suggested a meeting at the White House. “I said it’s very late, you know. I said it’s very late to be talking,” Trump told reporters on Wednesday morning. “I don’t know, there’s a big difference between now and a week ago, right? Big difference.” Trump continued: “They even suggested they come to the White House.” He called the request “courageous” because it is “not easy for them to do.” Trump is considering the U.S. joining Israel in striking Iran. He says Iran must never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. Tehran denies harboring such ambitions and says its nuclear program is for civil energy. “I don’t know how much longer it’s going to go on,” Trump said of the current conflict. “They’re totally defenseless. They have no air defense whatsoever.” Asked for his message to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who said his country would not surrender, Trump replied: “Good luck.” Trump said his patience with Iran has “already run out, that’s why we’re doing what we’re doing”. “They had 60 days, a big 60 days, plenty of time. And they made a mistake, honestly, they made a mistake,” Trump said, having urged Iran for weeks to make a new deal on the nuclear issue. “Their country’s in ruins. So many people are dead who shouldn’t be dead. It’s a very sad thing.” Read the full story by Shane Croucher on Newsweek.

10:35 AM EDT Burchett opposes U.S. intervention in Israel-Iran conflict, Danon responds Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) speaks to reporters while arriving at the Capitol Hill Club for a meeting of the House Republican Conference on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) speaks to reporters while arriving at the Capitol Hill Club for a meeting of the House Republican Conference on March 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. Al Drago/Getty Images During an interview on CNN News Central, Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) strongly opposed U.S. involvement in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, calling some of his Republican colleagues “war pimps.” He emphasized his personal concerns, stating, “I don’t want to see [my daughter] go to war.” Meanwhile, Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. Danny Danon pushed back on reports that Israel is urging the U.S. to enter the war, saying, “The U.S. should decide” how to approach the situation. He highlighted Iran’s threats against both Israel and the U.S., arguing that Tehran’s actions demonstrate hostility toward American forces in the region. The discussion reflects growing divisions over potential U.S. military involvement, as tensions between Israel and Iran continue to escalate.

10:22 AM EDT Retired U.S. General urges U.S. to stay out of Israel-Iran conflict Retired Brigadier General Steve Anderson advised against U.S. intervention in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, stating that Israel is successfully managing the situation without direct American involvement. Speaking on CNN This Morning, Anderson emphasized that Israel has air and intelligence superiority, allowing it to effectively counter Iranian forces. He argued that the United States should only intervene if directly attacked, warning that deeper involvement could escalate tensions unnecessarily. Anderson also noted that U.S. military bases in the region are well-defended, with advanced air defense systems in place to protect American personnel. While some officials have suggested that the U.S. could assist Israel in targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, Anderson maintained that Israel should continue its campaign independently.

10:06 AM EDT Israel scales back emergency measures amid declining missile strikes Israel announced Wednesday that it is lifting some restrictions for civilians, allowing people to return to workplaces with access to shelters as the confrontation with Iran enters its sixth day. While schools remain closed, restrictions are being further eased in peripheral areas, which have seen fewer attacks compared to central Israel. Defense Minister Israel Katz framed the move as a symbol of victory, citing Iran’s declining missile launches and Israel’s improved interception capabilities. The gradual reopening signals a shift in Israel’s approach, balancing security concerns with efforts to restore daily life amid ongoing tensions.

09:52 AM EDT Iran experiences internet blackout as explosions rock Tehran Iran suffered a major internet outage on Wednesday afternoon, with authorities offering no immediate explanation for the disruption, the Associated Press reported. The blackout comes amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes, further complicating communication across the country. Around 4 p.m. local time, a large plume of gray smoke was seen rising in eastern Tehran, following what is believed to be an Israeli airstrike. The exact target remains unclear, but the strike adds to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. Iran’s government has previously restricted internet access during periods of unrest, and reports suggest that cyberattacks may also be contributing to the outage. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continue to target military and nuclear sites, intensifying tensions in the region.

09:38 AM EDT Israeli strikes hit centrifuge and missile sites as conflict escalates The Israeli military confirmed Wednesday that its latest airstrikes targeted a uranium centrifuge production facility and a missile component site in Iran. The U.N. nuclear watchdog reported that two centrifuge production facilities in and near Tehran were struck. Israel also carried out strikes in western Iran, hitting missile storage sites and a loaded missile launcher. The ongoing attacks have resulted in the deaths of top Iranian generals and nuclear scientists, further intensifying the conflict. A Washington-based Iranian human rights group reported that at least 585 people have been killed, including 239 civilians, with more than 1,300 wounded. Iran has retaliated with 400 missiles and hundreds of drones, killing at least 24 people in Israel and injuring hundreds. Some missiles have hit apartment buildings in central Israel, forcing residents into shelters. Iran’s missile launches have declined, though officials have not explained. Israel has targeted launchers and related infrastructure, potentially limiting Iran’s ability to continue its attacks. On Wednesday, Israel eased restrictions imposed at the start of the conflict, lifting bans on small gatherings and allowing workplaces to reopen, provided they have access to shelters.

09:25 AM EDT Road out of Tehran closed over ‘heavy traffic’ This image from June 15, 2025 show vehicles jamming a highway as a fire blazes nearby in the oil depots of Shahran, northwest of Tehran, Iran. This image from June 15, 2025 show vehicles jamming a highway as a fire blazes nearby in the oil depots of Shahran, northwest of Tehran, Iran. ATTA KENARE/Getty Images A major route out of Tehran was closed overnight Tuesday as vehicles jammed roads following warnings by Israel and U.S. President Donald Trump to vacate the capital. As Israel continued to bombard Iran, the Islamic Republic’s traffic police said that the Chalus highway had been closed overnight because of heavy traffic before being reopened Wednesday morning. Residents in the capital have been fleeing the city since Israel’s airstrikes started last week, targeting Iran’s military and intelligence leadership it said was developing a nuclear bomb, although Iran denies it has such a capability. Traffic jams are in addition to major disruptions to banking and internet services in the country, adding to a climate of panic among Iranians. Read the full story by Brendan Cole on Newsweek.

09:09 AM EDT Israel expands airstrikes on military targets in Tehran The Israeli military announced Wednesday that it is conducting additional airstrikes on military targets in Tehran, escalating its ongoing campaign against Iranian infrastructure. Earlier in the day, Israel also reported strikes on attack helicopters in western Iran, though independent verification of these claims remains pending. The latest wave of attacks follows days of intensified military operations, with Israel targeting Iran’s nuclear and defense facilities. Israel expands airstrikes on military targets in Tehran The Israeli military announced Wednesday that it is conducting additional airstrikes on military targets in Tehran, escalating its ongoing campaign against Iranian infrastructure. Earlier in the day, Israel also reported strikes on attack helicopters in western Iran, though independent verification of these claims remains pending. The latest wave of attacks follows days of intensified military operations, with Israel targeting Iran’s nuclear and defense facilities.

08:56 AM EDT Khamenei condemns Israel’s attack amid U.S.-Iran nuclear talks Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, criticized Israel’s military campaign, stating that the strikes came. At the same time, Tehran was engaged in indirect negotiations with the United States over its nuclear enrichment program. When Israel launched its airstrikes, Trump initially cautioned against military action during ongoing talks, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling Israel’s move “unilateral.” However, Trump administration officials have since expressed support for Israel’s operation, fueling speculation that the U.S. may join the campaign. In a pre-recorded video message, Khamenei claimed that American involvement signals Israel’s weakness, adding that Iran’s retaliatory actions have weakened the enemy. He urged Iranians to remain strong as tensions escalate.

08:42 AM EDT Khamenei rejects Trump’s surrender demand, warns of consequences This handout picture provided by the office of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei shows him praying inside the tomb of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran on January 30, 2025, ahead… This handout picture provided by the office of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei shows him praying inside the tomb of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in Tehran on January 30, 2025, ahead of the 46th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. More Khamenei Ir/Getty Images Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared Wednesday that the Iranian nation “is not one to surrender,” responding to Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender.” In a nationally televised address, Khamenei warned that any U.S. military intervention would lead to irreparable damage, emphasizing that Iran would not yield under threats. He criticized Trump’s rhetoric, stating that those familiar with Iran’s history understand that threats will not work. Trump had escalated his stance on Truth Social, calling Khamenei “an easy target” and reiterating his demand for Iran’s surrender. The exchange comes amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes

08:27 AM EDT Israeli airstrikes hit Iran’s defense ministry headquarters in Tehran Israeli forces launched airstrikes on Nobonyad Square in Tehran, targeting the headquarters of Iran’s defense ministry and several factories, according to Nour News, an outlet affiliated with Iran’s National Security Council. The Lavizan metropolitan area, another key site in the capital, was also struck. Reports indicate that the attacks are part of Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Iranian infrastructure.

08:27 AM EDT IAEA confirms Israeli strikes hit Iran’s centrifuge facilities The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported Wednesday that two centrifuge production sites in Iran were struck, hours after Israel claimed responsibility for airstrikes targeting nuclear infrastructure. One building at the Tehran Research Center was hit, where advanced centrifuge rotors were manufactured. Additionally, two buildings at a workshop in Karaj, northwest of Tehran, were destroyed. Both sites had been previously monitored under the 2015 nuclear agreement. The Israeli military stated that more than 50 warplanes were deployed overnight to target weapons production facilities and a centrifuge plant used for uranium enrichment. A military official later confirmed that about 20 targets were hit. Israel launched its military campaign last week, aiming to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear bomb. The strikes have included attacks on military infrastructure, government buildings, and assassinations of nuclear scientists and commanders. On Friday, Israel targeted Iran’s Natanz nuclear site, where most of its nuclear fuel is produced. The IAEA initially reported that the aboveground enrichment plant was destroyed, but later confirmed direct impacts on underground enrichment halls. Iran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and has denied any intention to build a bomb. However, Tehran has responded with missile and drone strikes against Israel.

08:14 AM EDT Hegseth faces scrutiny in final Capitol Hill hearing amid Iran-Israel conflict Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to appear before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Wednesday for the last in a series of contentious hearings. Lawmakers are expected to press him on his handling of military policy, including his ban on transgender troops, firings of top military leaders, and use of an unsecured Signal chat to discuss sensitive military operations. While the hearing was initially focused on Pentagon spending, the escalation of airstrikes between Iran and Israel has shifted the conversation toward U.S. military posture in the region. The U.S. has repositioned refueling tankers and fighter aircraft to prepare for potential evacuations or airstrikes, with Hegseth stating the moves aimed to protect American personnel and airbases. Hegseth’s tenure has been marked by controversial policy shifts, including efforts to redirect funding from troop housing to border security and remove diversity programs. His confirmation was the closest vote of any Trump Cabinet member, and his use of Signal for military discussions has drawn criticism, prompting a Pentagon watchdog investigation.

08:01 AM EDT Xi Jinping breaks silence on Israel-Iran conflict as China warns citizens President of China Xi Jinping arrives in the Kremlin for a gala concert held for heads of foreign delegations, in Moscow, Thursday, May 8, 2025, ahead of celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the victory… President of China Xi Jinping arrives in the Kremlin for a gala concert held for heads of foreign delegations, in Moscow, Thursday, May 8, 2025, ahead of celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. More Alexandr Kryazhev/RIA Novosti via AP Chinese President Xi Jinping has broken his silence on the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, expressing deep concern a day after Beijing urged its nationals to leave Iran amid waves of Israeli bombardment. His statement, delivered Tuesday on the sidelines of a summit in Kazakhstan, came just hours before President Donald Trump appeared to signal impending American military involvement—prompting criticism that such action would violate his “no new wars” campaign pledge. Iran received diplomatic support from China—a longtime strategic partner and leading export market—during the more limited exchanges of missile fire with Israel in both April and October of last year. The latest crisis began Friday with Israel’s surprise strikes on a range of Iranian targets, including nuclear facilities, missile batteries, senior military leaders and nuclear scientists. Iran responded with retaliatory missile and drone attacks. Newsweek has reached out to the Israeli Foreign Ministry with an emailed request for comment. Read the full story by Micah McCartney on Newsweek.

07:15 AM EDT Israel-Iran conflict map shows how strikes are unfolding This compelling map from Newsweek’s John Feng shows where Israel and Iran have struck each other over the past few days. It uses data compiled by the Institute for the Study of War.

✕ Close Trump says ‘nobody knows what I’m going to do’ about Iran as he warns ‘the next week will be big’

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The main hospital in southern Israel has suffered “extensive damage” in a direct hit from an Iranian missile this morning, officials said.

Soroka Medical Center in Beer Sheba has requested patients not to come for treatment following the attack that left several people wounded.

Israel on Thursday attacked Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor after warning the locals to flee the area.

Explosions were heard in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv as the week-long conflict showed no signs of easing. Israeli strikes have wiped out the top echelon of Iran’s military command, damaged its nuclear capabilities, and killed about 640 people. Iranian retaliatory strikes have killed two dozen civilians in Israel.

Donald Trump has touted the prospect of joining Israel’s attacks and claimed late on Wednesday that Iran was “just weeks away” from having a nuclear weapon, in contradiction to his own US intelligence agencies.

Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence, said in March that Iran had not made a decision to build nuclear weapons despite having stockpiles of enriched uranium.