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Donald Trump and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke on the phone Tuesday, shortly after the president’s Situation Room briefing on Iran, a White House official told Associated Press. The official did not offer details about their call. Netanyahu told media on Monday that he had spoken with Trump on the phone almost every day since the Israel-Iran conflict broke out last week. What to Know: During his security briefing on Tuesday afternoon, Trump discussed a range of options for dealing with Iran, including a U.S. strike on the country, several administration officials told NBC News.

Several military leaders were spotted leaving the White House after the briefing, along with Special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine.

Donald Trump has escalated his rhetoric, calling for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and suggesting U.S. military involvement in the conflict.

Israeli officials are pushing for U.S. strikes on Iran’s Fordow nuclear site, but Trump has yet to confirm direct intervention.

Iran launched a new series of strikes of Israel on Tuesday evening, hours after accusing the nation of launching cyberattacks on its digital infrastructure, disrupting banking and online services.

The G7 leaders issued a statement backing Israel but urging de-escalation, while Trump signals he seeks a decisive end to hostilities. Newsweek’s live blog is closed.

07:48 PM EDT Lindsey Graham says Trump will be the US president to finally rid Iran of its nuclear ambitions Sen. Lindsey Graham has said that President Donald Trump will keep his promise to rid Iran of its nuclear program forever. Speaking at the Capitol on Tuesday, the Republican senator, who has been pushing for the U.S. to take a more active role in the Israel-Iran conflict, warned that Iran having a nuclear weapon was not just a threat to Israel, but also to the United States. “Four presidents have promised to make sure that Iran never has a nuclear weapon. I think it will be Donald Trump that delivers on that promise,” he told CNN.

07:35 PM EDT Israeli ambassador warns of a ‘war to end wars’ with Iran Israeli ambassador Yechiel Leiter has warned that Israel’s conflict with Iran will be a “war to end wars.” “This is a war to end wars not to start endless wars,” said Leiter, Tuesday. “We are going to prosecute this war whether the ayatollah survives or not.” The ambassador’s comments came during a discussion about President Donald Trump’s claim earlier Tuesday, that he knows where Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is hiding, but that he doesn’t plan to kill him, “at least not for now.”

07:29 PM EDT Israeli Air Force responds with series of strikes on Tehran The Israeli Air Force (IAF) has responded to Iran’s multiple rounds of missile attacks on Tuesday, with its own series of strikes on Tehran, CNN reports.

07:26 PM EDT Defiant Iran leader Khamenei says he will show Israel ‘no mercy’ Supreme Leader of Iran Ali Khamenei has announced he will show Israel “no mercy” as Iran launches its second round of missiles within an hour. “We must give a strong response to the terrorist Zionist regime,” he said in a Tuesday evening post on X, formerly Twitter. “We will show the Zionists no mercy.” We must give a strong response to the terrorist Zionist regime.

We will show the Zionists no mercy. — Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) June 17, 2025

07:19 PM EDT Iran launches ten ballistic missiles towards Israel, military says Irani military says it launched approximately 10 ballistic missiles toward Israel on Tuesday evening. Most of them were intercepted by Israel’s missile defense system. Fire and rescue teams in Israel teams are responding to reports of a direct hit on a residential building in Tel Aviv and multiple fires.

07:17 PM EDT US embassy in Jerusalem closed as Donald Trump weighs attacks on Iran The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem will be closed from Wednesday through Friday as President Donald Trump weighs military attacks on Iran.

07:07 PM EDT Israeli military tells residents to brace for second round of missiles Israel’s IDF Home Front Command has warned residents to seek shelter after it detected a second round of Iranian missiles launched towards Tel Aviv within an hour.

06:43 PM EDT Trump spoke with Netanyahu by phone today President Donald Trump and Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke via phone today, a White House official told Politico. Netanyahu told media on Monday that he’d had a call with Trump almost every day since the Israel-Iran conflict broke out last week. The call took place shortly after Trump met with his national security team to discuss potential options on Iran.

06:31 PM EDT IN PICTURES: Israeli Iron Dome air defense system intercepts missiles during Iranian attack over Tel Aviv 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) 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) Leo Correa/AP The Israeli air defense system fires to intercept missiles during an Iranian attack over Tel Aviv, Israel, early Wednesday, June 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa) The Israeli air defense system fires to intercept missiles during an Iranian attack over Tel Aviv, Israel, early Wednesday, June 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa) Leo Correa/AP

06:15 PM EDT Son of Iran’s last shah and prominent critic says regime is near collapse Reza Pahlavi, the American-based son of Iran’s last shah, has warned that supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s regime and the Islamic Republic is at the point of collapse. Pahlavi, whose father was overthrown in 1979, called for Iranians to rise up and seize their country in several posts on X. “The Islamic Republic has come to its end and is collapsing. What has begun is irreversible. The future is bright, and together we will turn the page of history. “Now is the time to stand up; the time to reclaim Iran. May I be with you soon,” he added. The Islamic Republic has come to its end and is collapsing. What has begun is irreversible. The future is bright, and together we will turn the page of history. Now is the time to stand up; the time to reclaim Iran. May I be with you soon. pic.twitter.com/qrbnDmf8SX — Reza Pahlavi (@PahlaviReza) June 17, 2025

06:00 PM EDT Donald Trump’s pledge of no new wars runs into reality of Middle East President Donald Trump entered office vowing to bring a swift end to the wars in Gaza and Ukraine. Five months in, foreign conflicts are now threatening to overshadow Trump’s second term as a new war escalates between Israel and Iran and concerns grow that the United States could soon take an active role in fighting Tehran. Trump referred to himself as an anti-war president upon his return to the White House and even argued that his efforts to broker peace around the world deserved a Nobel Peace prize. But the Israel-Iran conflict has highlighted Trump’s challenge in shaping foreign affairs while maintaining political support at home with the isolationist and ascendent MAGA wing of the Republican Party. “Trump has found that making peace is hard,” said Richard Gowan, the UN director of the International Crisis Group. Read in full from Daniel Bush on Newsweek.

05:52 PM EDT Israelis urged to seek shelter as new round of Iranian missiles aimed at Israel, say military Israel’s home front command is urging residents to seek immediate shelter. The IDF home front command said that is has detected a new round of Iranian missile launches aimed at Israel. Meanwhile, air raid sirens rang out across Tel Aviv as explosions were seen overhead.

05:37 PM EDT Trump considering potential strike on Iran, say officials after Situation Room briefing Donald Trump is considering a range of options to dealing with Iran, including a U.S. strike on the country, several administration officials told NBC News after the president’s Situation Room briefing with his national security team. The meeting wrapped earlier this afternoon and several military leaders were spotted leaving the White House a short time later, along with Special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine.

05:21 PM EDT WATCH: Trump looking for a ‘real end’ to Iran-Israel conflict

05:14 PM EDT All the signs Trump is preparing for a US attack on Iran As an unprecedented conflict between Israel and Iran dragged on into a fifth day, President Donald Trump has increasingly indicated that he was seriously considering a direct intervention in the fight. And while the Pentagon has thus far maintained that U.S. forces were operating in a purely “defensive posture,” while also assisting Israeli interceptions of Iranian missiles, evidence is mounting that the White House is marching toward military action against the Islamic Republic. Just prior to Israel launching its large-scale campaign on Thursday, Trump had signaled a willingness to continue nuclear negotiations with Iran, the sixth round of which had been scheduled to be held in Oman last Sunday. Even after the initial Israeli strikes began, Trump called on Tehran to double down on efforts to reach an agreement. As of Monday, however, Trump has adopted a notably more ominous tone. Shortly before his abrupt exit from the G7 meeting being held in Canada, he called on residents of Tehran, home to nearly 10 million people, to immediately evacuate, and later met with top national security officials at the White House Situation Room. Read in full from Tom O’Connor on Newsweek.

05:07 PM EDT Iranian state TV warns of ‘a surprise tonight that the world will remember’ Iranian state TV has warned of “a surprise tonight that the world will remember for centuries.” The warning comes as President Donald Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” as tensions rapidly escalate in the Israel-Iran conflict. JUST IN – Iranian TV: There is a surprise tonight that the world will remember for centuries pic.twitter.com/rO4sv7MKoV — Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) June 17, 2025

04:50 PM EDT Democrat senator says ‘hell yes’ to US involvement on Iran Democratic Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman says he support the U.S. getting involved in the Israel-Iran war. “I’ve been saying, ‘Oh, hell yes,’ for I think it’s almost six weeks,” Fetterman said when asked about America launching a pre-emptive strike on Iran. “Bombing and destroying their nuclear facilities, that’s about peace,” he added. Fetterman also rejected the resolution put forward by Sen. Tim Kaine to limit Trump’s war powers.

04:35 PM EDT WATCH: Trump says Canada can be under ‘Golden Dome’ for $71 billion

04:29 PM EDT Lindsey Graham takes a swipe at Marjorie Taylor Greene over Iran Sen. Lindsey Graham has taken aim at Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene after she accused Republicans of “slobbering” over the idea of the U.S. entering Israel’s war with Iran. “Yeah, I mean, I like Marjorie, but I’d be honest with it, she doesn’t understand the threat in my view,” Graham said on Fox News Tuesday. “If you don’t understand that Iran, a religious theocracy, religious Nazis would use a nuclear weapon to kill all the Jews, you don’t listen to what they say, they’re a threat to us.” Graham praised Trump’s apparent willingness to go to war, and urged the president to join the conflict early and not “overthink” it. “Somebody’s got to deal with it,” the senator added.

04:12 PM EDT Trump’s Situation Room meeting with national security aides has ended President Donald Trump’s Situation Room meeting with national security aides has ended, according to the White House.

04:00 PM EDT MAGA split deepens over Trump’s stance on Israel-Iran conflict A growing divide has emerged among Trump’s MAGA supporters, as some of his most vocal allies push back against his consideration of greater U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran war. Figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, Tucker Carlson, and Charlie Kirk have publicly criticized Trump’s departure from his America First stance, reminding audiences of his 2024 campaign promises to avoid foreign entanglements. Meanwhile, Sen. Lindsey Graham and other conservatives argue that Trump should fully back Israel, including providing bunker-busting bombs to target Iran’s nuclear sites. Trump’s abrupt exit from the G7 Summit and his ominous social media warnings have fueled speculation that the U.S. may be deepening its involvement. His recent call for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” has further intensified the debate within his base.

03:51 PM EDT Oil prices surge as U.S. weighs deeper involvement in Israel-Iran war Oil prices climbed nearly 5%, surpassing $75 per barrel, as traders reacted to the possibility of U.S. military involvement in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. The surge marks a $10 increase since early June, reflecting heightened concerns over regional stability and potential disruptions to Middle East oil supplies. Market analysts warn that further escalation could increase prices, particularly if tensions threaten key shipping routes like the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil exports.

03:38 PM EDT Israel’s covert operation cripples Iran’s defenses, nuclear sites Israel executed a highly coordinated intelligence and military operation, striking key Iranian targets with precision. The attack, guided by spies and artificial intelligence, involved warplanes and armed drones smuggled into Iran, effectively disabling air defenses and missile systems. With greater aerial freedom, Israel bombarded nuclear sites and eliminated top Iranian generals and scientists. By the time Iran responded, its retaliatory capabilities were significantly weakened, following previous Israeli strikes. The operation, reportedly years in the making, was based on intelligence gathered by Israeli officials, some of whom spoke anonymously about the clandestine mission.

03:25 PM EDT Macron warns against military-driven regime change in Iran French President Emmanuel Macron cautioned against using military force to change Iran’s government, calling it a strategic mistake that could lead to chaos. Speaking at the G7 summit in Canada, Macron referenced past interventions in Iraq and Libya, questioning their effectiveness. While Macron reaffirmed France’s stance that Iran must not obtain nuclear weapons and that Israel has the right to defend itself, he criticized Israeli strikes on civilian and energy infrastructure, warning they could further destabilize the region. His remarks come as concerns grow over potential U.S. involvement in the conflict, with Trump signaling a hardline approach toward Iran.

03:07 PM EDT Israel targets ballistic missile sites in Isfahan amid ongoing strikes The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed Tuesday evening that its air force is striking 12 ballistic missile launch sites in Isfahan, continuing its broader campaign against Iranian military infrastructure. Since launching airstrikes on Iran, Israel has targeted three key nuclear facilities, including Isfahan, aiming to weaken Iran’s missile capabilities. Meanwhile, Iranian state television reported that Tehran’s air defenses were responding to a fresh wave of Israeli attacks in densely populated areas. The IDF released footage claiming to show three missile storage and launch sites struck in Isfahan, though independent verification remains pending. IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin stated that Iranian forces have retreated toward central Iran, shifting their missile launch operations to Isfahan. In a separate statement, the IDF announced that it had destroyed over 70 Iranian aerial defense missile batteries, along with missile launchers and detection radars designed to counter Israeli airstrikes.

03:00 PM EDT ‘President is perfectly within his authority,’ says Thune on Iran Majority Leader of the United States Senate, John Thune, has backed President Trump’s actions on Iran so far, as lawmakers introduced a bipartisan resolution seeking to restrain his war powers. “I think the President is perfectly within his authority in the steps that he has taken,” Thune said Tuesday. “You know, clearly, if this thing were to extend for some period of time, there could be a more fulsome discussion about what the role of Congress should be.”

02:56 PM EDT DHS establishes Middle East Task Force to help Americans fleeing Israel, Iran The State Department has established a special task force to help Americans trying to flee Israel, Iran and neighboring countries amid the escalating conflict. Run by the Bureau of Consular Affairs, the task force is operating 24 hours to provide information to U.S citizens and lawful permanent residents trying to return to America. So far, no government evacuations have been planned. A State Department spokeswoman told reporters on Tuesday that the department is continuing to monitor the “complex and rapidly evolving situation on the ground as we continue to assess and address the needs of US citizens.”

02:38 PM EDT Republican lawmaker introduces resolution to block US involvement in Israel-Iran conflict Republican Congressman, Rep. Thomas Massie, has introduced a bipartisan resolution to block America’s involvement in the rapidly escalating Israel-Iran conflict. The ‘Iran War Powers Resolution’ seeks to limit the powers of President Donald Trump to unilaterally decide to carry out strikes on Iran. “This is not our war. But if it were, Congress must decide such matters according to our Constitution,” Massie said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Monday ahead of the resolution, which is co-sponsored by Democrat Ro Khanna. “I invite all members of Congress to cosponsor this resolution,” said Massie, one of the few Republicans to regularly break ranks to oppose Trump. Just IN 🚨: Rep. Thomas Massie officially introduces bipartisan ‘Iran War Powers Resolution’ to prohibit U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict.

The resolution would seek to limit ‘War Powers’ President Trump takes, to include strikes to nuclear facilities deep in Iran. pic.twitter.com/ecY6XbtkqJ — Anthony (@AnthonyCabassa_) June 17, 2025

02:30 PM EDT Iran military warns Israelis in Haifa, Tel Aviv to evacuate before ‘punitive operation’ The chief of staff of Iran’s Armed Forces has warned residents of Israeli cities Haifa and Tel Aviv in Israel to evacuate ahead ahead of what he dubbed Iran’s “punitive operation.” “The operations carried out so far have been a warning for deterrence and a punitive operation will be carried out soon,” Abdolrahim Mousavi said in a clip shared by Iranian state media.

02:14 PM EDT Trump reveals new price tag for Canada to join ‘Golden Dome’ defense system President Donald Trump increased the proposed price for Canada’s participation in the U.S. Golden Dome missile defense system. “They want to be in,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Monday. “Seventy-one billion they’re going to pay.” The new price tag is $10 billion higher than Trump’s earlier public demand for Canadian entry into the program. Newsweek has contacted the White House and Canada’s prime ministerial office via email for comment. Canada’s defense ministry directed questions to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office. Read in full from Ellie Cook on Newsweek.

01:52 PM EDT Russia warns Israel-Iran conflict could spark global crisis Russia’s U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia cautioned Tuesday that the military exchanges between Israel and Iran pose a risk of wider geopolitical escalation beyond the region. Nebenzia revealed that President Vladimir Putin spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump after Israeli strikes began, offering Moscow’s assistance in facilitating de-escalation. The Russian envoy also expressed concerns about potential radiation leaks from Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility, which Israeli attacks have targeted. He warned that threats to strike Iran’s underground Fordo site and other nuclear locations could have severe consequences.

01:23 PM EDT HRANA reports over 450 killed in Iran amid Israel conflict The Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRANA) has reported that 452 people have been killed since Israeli strikes began on Friday, with 646 others injured. According to HRANA, 224 of the dead were civilians, while 109 were military personnel. The remaining casualties have not yet been identified. Iranian authorities have not released official figures on losses since the conflict began. The escalating violence has led to widespread destruction, with Tehran residents fleeing as airstrikes continue.

12:58 PM EDT Iranian state TV urges public to delete WhatsApp over spying claims Iranian state television on Tuesday called on citizens to remove WhatsApp from their smartphones, alleging—without evidence—that the app collects user data for Israel. WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, swiftly denied the accusations, stating that its end-to-end encryption prevents any third party from accessing private messages. The company expressed concern that false claims could be used as a pretext to block its services at a critical time. Iran has previously restricted access to foreign apps during periods of unrest, raising concerns that the government may be tightening control over digital communication

12:46 PM EDT Gabbard insists no divide with Trump on Iran nuclear assessment Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard defended her stance on Iran’s nuclear program, insisting there is no contradiction between her earlier testimony and Trump’s recent remarks. Speaking on Capitol Hill, Gabbard said Trump’s claim that Iran is “very close” to obtaining a nuclear weapon aligns with her March threat assessment, despite media reports suggesting a discrepancy. In her March testimony, Gabbard said that Iran was not actively building a nuclear weapon and that Supreme Leader Khamenei had not reauthorized a nuclear weapons program since suspending it in 2003. However, Trump dismissed concerns over the distinction, asserting that Iran was on the verge of acquiring nuclear capabilities. Pressed on whether she and Trump were in agreement, Gabbard told CNN, “We are on the same page.”

12:36 PM EDT Trump posts ‘unconditional surrender’ amid conflict Trump posted “unconditional surrender!” on Truth Social, likely referring to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict.

12:31 PM EDT Cyberattack disrupts Iran’s Sepah Bank, threatens gas station services Iran’s Sepah Bank, a significant financial institution linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has suffered a cyberattack, causing widespread disruptions to its online and remote services. The Fars News Agency reported that the attack could impact fuel stations, potentially leading to service interruptions in the coming hours. Reports from Iranian media and local sources indicate that customers are experiencing difficulties accessing accounts online and withdrawing cash from ATMs. The hacktivist group Predatory Sparrow, known for previous cyberattacks on Iranian infrastructure, has claimed responsibility, stating that it destroyed key banking data. Iranian authorities have yet to officially comment on the extent of the damage, but concerns are growing over the broader impact on financial and fuel services

12:17 PM EDT Trump declares U.S. air superiority over Iran Trump said on Truth Social that the United States has complete control over Iran’s airspace. Trump’s statement follows reports that Israeli forces have crippled Iran’s air defenses, allowing unrestricted aerial operations over Tehran. Military analysts suggest that U.S. technology has played a key role in securing air dominance, though Iran has attempted to counter Israeli and U.S. air operations. The declaration comes amid ongoing missile exchanges between Israel and Iran, raising concerns about further escalation in the region.

12:05 PM EDT JD Vance defends Trump’s stance on Iran’s nuclear program Vice President JD Vance took to social media Tuesday to defend Trump’s long-standing position that Iran must not have a nuclear weapon. In a detailed post, Vance emphasized that Trump has been consistent for over a decade in opposing Iranian uranium enrichment, arguing that Tehran has violated non-proliferation obligations. Vance distinguished between civilian nuclear power and uranium enrichment, stating that Iran rejected alternatives that would allow nuclear energy without enrichment. He also noted that Trump has exercised restraint, keeping the U.S. military focused on protecting American troops and citizens. While acknowledging concerns about U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts, Vance asserted that American interests drive Trump’s decisions. He hinted that further action against Iran’s enrichment program remains on the table. Look, I’m seeing this from the inside, and am admittedly biased towards our president (and my friend), but there’s a lot of crazy stuff on social media, so I wanted to address some things directly on the Iran issue:

First, POTUS has been amazingly consistent, over 10 years, that… — JD Vance (@JDVance) June 17, 2025

11:52 AM EDT Iran bans officials from using communication devices amid conflict According to a Tuesday announcement by the semiofficial Fars news agency, Iran has prohibited government officials and their bodyguards from using mobile phones, smart watches, and laptops. While Iranian authorities did not provide a reason for the ban, reports suggest it may be linked to concerns that Israel used digital signatures from electronic devices to target Iranian military leaders in recent airstrikes. The restriction comes as Iran continues to face Israeli attacks

11:33 AM EDT Iran restricts international calls, internet access amid conflict Iran has begun limiting access to international communication, with landline phones unable to receive or dial overseas calls as of Tuesday night. The government has not officially acknowledged the restriction, but similar measures have been imposed during past protests and the Iran-Iraq war. Internet users also report blocked access to international websites, while local sites remain functional. This suggests Iran has activated its “halal net”, a state-controlled version of the internet designed to restrict public access to foreign information. The move comes amid escalating tensions with Israel, raising concerns about government control over information flow

11:08 AM EDT Germany’s Merz: Iran’s regime weakened, future uncertain German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated Tuesday that recent Israeli attacks have significantly weakened Iran’s leadership and may not regain its former strength. Speaking at the G7 summit in Canada, Merz described Iran’s future as “uncertain” amid its ongoing conflict with Israel. Merz also suggested that Iran’s nuclear program could be targeted if Tehran refuses to negotiate on abandoning its pursuit of nuclear weapons. “We will have to wait and see,” he told German broadcaster Welt. Despite the escalating tensions, Merz reaffirmed that Germany, France, and the United Kingdom remain open to diplomatic assistance if talks resume. “If a new situation were to arise, we would again be prepared to provide diplomatic assistance, as we were until last Thursday,” he said.

10:52 AM EDT ‘Iran is attacking again’ – IDF The Israel Defense Forces X account has shared, “Iran is attacking again, so we’re posting again.” Iran is attacking again, so we’re posting again. — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) June 17, 2025

10:50 AM EDT Lawmakers push to limit Trump’s war powers on Iran Members of Congress are moving to restrict President Donald Trump’s authority to engage U.S. forces in hostilities against Iran, as concerns grow over potential American involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict, The New York Times reported this morning. In the House of Representatives, Reps. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) plan to introduce a bipartisan resolution on Tuesday requiring congressional approval before U.S. troops could launch offensive attacks against Iran. The measure reflects growing sentiment among lawmakers that military action should not be left solely to the president. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.) introduced a similar effort in the Senate on Monday, though it faces significant hurdles in the Republican-controlled chamber. Kaine has long advocated for Congress to reclaim its constitutional authority over war decisions, arguing that any military engagement with Iran must be explicitly authorized. The push comes as Israel continues its military campaign against Iran, raising fears of broader regional conflict and potential U.S. entanglement.

10:35 AM EDT Narges Mohammadi signals departure from Tehran amid Israeli strikes Iranian activist Narges Mohammadi, who has been on extended leave from Evin Prison, indicated on X that she has left Tehran as Israeli airstrikes continue to target the city. “I left home,” Mohammadi wrote, hoping she would return one day. She acknowledged the millions of Iranians fleeing war and urged solidarity: “Let’s be each other’s refuge.” Mohammadi, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has long been a vocal critic of Iran’s government, despite multiple arrests and years behind bars. She had been serving a 13-year sentence on charges of collusion against state security and propaganda. Her departure comes as Tehran empties, with residents seeking safety amid escalating conflict.

10:21 AM EDT US tanker aircraft head to Middle East as threat of Iran war rises U.S. Air Force aerial refueling aircraft are heading for the Middle East amid an escalating war between Israel and Iran and the possibility that U.S. forces could also become involved, according to flight data tracking sources. Newsweek has reached out to the Pentagon for comment. The U.S. is redeploying military forces as the conflict between Israel and Iran stretched over the week, raising tensions between Washington and Tehran. The American repositioning could be a sign of an increased possibility that it gets involved in an attack on Iran although Washington has so far said that it is not joining Israel in striking Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump had previously not ruled out military action if Iran did not agree to curbs on its nuclear program. Iran has also blamed the United States for Israel’s attacks though has not repeated earlier threats of attacking U.S. bases in the region. Read the full story by Amira El-Fekki on Newsweek.

10:05 AM EDT Timelapse shows US tankers flying to the Middle East

09:51 AM EDT Xi Jinping calls for de-escalation in Middle East conflict Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, calling for diplomatic efforts to restore stability. Speaking at the China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Xi emphasized that military conflict is not a solution and urged all parties to respect sovereignty and territorial integrity. China, a key diplomatic and economic partner of Iran, has positioned itself as a potential mediator. Xi states that Beijing is ready to play a constructive role in achieving peace. His remarks mark his first public statement on the conflict since it began on Friday

09:38 AM EDT EU warns U.S. involvement in Israel-Iran war could escalate conflict European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas cautioned Tuesday that U.S. military involvement in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict could drag the region into a broader war. Following a video conference with the foreign ministers of the 27-nation bloc, Kallas emphasized the need for diplomatic solutions and urged all sides to exercise restraint. She reiterated that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon, stressing that diplomacy is the only viable path to prevent further escalation. Kallas also noted that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had acknowledged concerns about American involvement, stating that it was not in Washington’s interest to be drawn into the conflict.

09:16 AM EDT Alon Pinkas warns U.S. regime change in Iran could backfire Former Israeli Consul General Alon Pinkas cautioned against U.S.-led regime change in Iran, arguing that such an effort could create instability rather than a smooth transition. Speaking on CNN’s Early Start, Pinkas noted that “it’s not like Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson are waiting on the sidelines” to take over from Iran’s leadership. Pinkas outlined three options for the U.S.: staying out of the conflict, offering Iran a diplomatic off-ramp, or direct military involvement. He warned that deeper U.S. engagement could repeat past mistakes, referencing the failed regime change in Iraq.

08:59 AM EDT Russia’s drone production unlikely to be affected by Middle East conflict Russia manufactures its drones for the war in Ukraine, making it unlikely to face immediate disruptions from the escalating conflict in the Middle East, according to David Albright, an expert on Russian and Iranian drones, the Associated Press reported. Most of Russia’s drones are produced at the Alabuga plant in Tatarstan, though Moscow initially purchased a limited number from Tehran before establishing its production facilities. Albright noted that Iran has decades of experience in drone manufacturing. Still, with rising tensions, Russia may struggle to obtain more advanced models from Iran, which will likely prioritize its own military needs.

08:46 AM EDT China touts weapons capabilities as Iran’s defenses collapse Black smoke billows from the headquarters of Iranian state television in Tehran following an Israeli attack on June 16, 2025. The attack occurred during a live broadcast, filling the studio with dust and debris and… Black smoke billows from the headquarters of Iranian state television in Tehran following an Israeli attack on June 16, 2025. The attack occurred during a live broadcast, filling the studio with dust and debris and forcing an anchor to run off camera. More Kyodo via Associated Press The collapse of Iran’s air defenses in the face of Israeli attacks has prompted influential Chinese commentators to say it could have fared better if it had been supplied with Chinese weaponry. Chinese fighter aircraft proved themselves in combat for Pakistan during its recent confrontation with India, with Pakistani forces claiming to have shot down Indian jets. “Iran’s biggest mistake was not purchasing weapons from China,” wrote “Former HR himself,” a Weibo account with two million followers. Newsweek reached out to the Iranian and Chinese foreign ministeries by email with requests for comment. The Chinese comments on the failure of Iran’s air defenses, which were largely dependent on Russian systems, highlight the increasing prominence of the latest Chinese weapons technology and China’s desire to secure new markets for it. The apparent success of Chinese air power in the confrontation between India and Pakistan had already elevated its profile, with stocks in Chinese defense company AVIC Shenyang soaring by 10 percent on last week’s news that Pakistan planned to acquire 40 of its J-35 fighters. Countries unable to acquire advanced fighter jets from the U.S. are increasingly turning to China as an alternative supplier, as Beijing positions itself as a viable competitor by ramping up exports and strategic partnerships, as well as showcasing its aircraft in military drills. Read the full story by Micah McCartney and Amira El-Fekki on Newsweek.

08:33 AM EDT WHO chief warns of health risks from strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned Tuesday that military strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities could have serious environmental and health consequences across the region. Since Friday, Israel has targeted multiple sites in Iran, including nuclear infrastructure, raising concerns about radiation exposure and long-term health risks. In a statement on social media, Dr. Tedros called the escalation “extremely concerning” and urged all parties to work toward peace. The warning comes as global leaders debate diplomatic solutions to prevent further destabilization in the Middle East. The escalation of violence between Israel and Iran is extremely concerning — and is costing the lives of civilians, including children. The growing number of injured civilians are also distressing.

@WHO’s particular concern is the targeting of nuclear sites, which may have… pic.twitter.com/ECCXlxoBRy — Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) June 17, 2025

08:20 AM EDT European ministers urge Iran, Israel to de-escalate tensions France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot delivers a speech during a conference dubbed “Paris Call for the Two-State Solution, Peace and Regional Security” at the French Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESE)… France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot delivers a speech during a conference dubbed “Paris Call for the Two-State Solution, Peace and Regional Security” at the French Economic, Social and Environmental Council (CESE) in Paris on June 13, 2025. More Thibaud Moritz/Getty Images French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot spoke with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and later with Iranian, British, and German foreign ministers on Monday, discussing the escalating conflict in the Middle East. According to a French diplomatic official, the ministers urged Iran to return to negotiations without conditions and avoid actions that could further destabilize the region. They also warned against nuclear escalation, including withdrawing from the Non-Proliferation Treaty or halting cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Additionally, the ministers conveyed messages to Israel, emphasizing the need to avoid targeting Iranian authorities, infrastructure, and civilians. The discussions reflect growing international concerns over the conflict’s impact on regional stability and global security.

08:07 AM EDT 45 Palestinians killed while waiting for aid trucks in Gaza At least 45 Palestinians were killed in the Gaza Strip while waiting for U.N. and commercial trucks carrying desperately needed food, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry and a local hospital. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, but Palestinian officials claim that Israeli forces have repeatedly opened fire on crowds attempting to reach food distribution points run by a U.S. and Israeli-backed aid group, per AP. Local health officials report that scores have been killed and hundreds wounded in similar incidents. The Israeli military has acknowledged firing warning shots at individuals it deemed suspicious. The killings come amid growing concerns over famine in Gaza, as humanitarian aid deliveries face major obstacles due to military restrictions and lawlessness.

07:53 AM EDT 20 nations condemn Israel’s strikes on Iran, call for de-escalation Foreign ministers from 20 countries issued a joint statement Tuesday denouncing Israel’s military actions against Iran and urging diplomacy to restore stability in the Middle East. The statement emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and warned that continued hostilities could further destabilize the region. The signatories, including Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the UAE, rejected military solutions and called for peaceful negotiations. They also stressed the importance of eliminating nuclear and mass destruction weapons and protecting maritime security in international waters. The statement follows Israel’s recent airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure, escalating tensions between the two nations. The foreign ministers urged all parties to respect international law and pursue diplomatic resolutions.

07:40 AM EDT India evacuates students from Tehran amid rising regional tensions India has begun evacuating students from Tehran, citing safety concerns as tensions escalate between Iran and Israel. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed Tuesday that some Indian nationals have also been assisted in leaving Iran through the Armenian border. The Indian government has advised those who can arrange their transport to evacuate immediately. The Indian Embassy in Tehran maintains contact with the community, providing logistical support and emergency assistance. The evacuation follows five days of missile strikes between Iran and Israel, prompting concerns for civilians in affected areas. The MEA has set up a 24/7 control room to coordinate evacuation efforts and provide updates.

07:25 AM EDT Israel claims killing of top Iranian general Ali Shadmani Israel announced Tuesday that its military had killed Gen. Ali Shadmani, a high-ranking Iranian commander, in an airstrike targeting Tehran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters. Shadmani was recently appointed to lead the command center, which oversees Iran’s military emergency operations. Iran has not yet officially acknowledged Shadmani’s death, but reports indicate that the strike is part of Israel’s broader campaign against Iran’s military leadership. Shadmani was a senior figure in Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, playing a key role in strategic operations. The attack follows a series of Israeli strikes aimed at weakening Iran’s military infrastructure, escalating tensions between the two nations.

07:12 AM EDT Iran warns U.S. of ‘painful responses’ over Israel’s attacks Iranian army cadets march during a parade commemorating National Army Day in front of the shrine of the late revolutionary founder Ayatollah Khomeini, just outside Tehran, Iran, Friday, April 18, 2025. Iranian army cadets march during a parade commemorating National Army Day in front of the shrine of the late revolutionary founder Ayatollah Khomeini, just outside Tehran, Iran, Friday, April 18, 2025. Vahid Salemi/AP Photo Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has warned that the Islamic Republic “will have to show more painful responses,” if the United States fails to curb Israel’s attacks and accused Washington of being complicit in the strikes. Iran’s armed forces had previously threatened a massive regional response if Israel attacked its nuclear sites, including against U.S. targets in the region. Newsweek has reached out to the Israeli prime minister’s office and the U.S. State Department for comment. Pezeshkian’s comments come after Iran blamed Washington for the five-day-old Israeli offensive, accusing it of complicity and support. The escalating rhetoric signals the deepening rift between Tehran and Washington, raising fears of a broader regional confrontation that could draw in U.S. forces and further destabilize the Middle East. It raises further doubts over whether Iran will do a deal with the United States on its nuclear program as U.S. President Donald Trump has said it should.

06:54 AM EDT At least 51 Palestinians killed while waiting for aid trucks in Gaza, health officials say At least 51 Palestinians were killed and more than 200 others wounded Tuesday in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis as they waited near aid trucks carrying food, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry and local hospital sources. Eyewitnesses told The Associated Press that Israeli forces launched an airstrike on a nearby home before opening fire on the crowd gathered near United Nations and commercial relief convoys attempting to enter the besieged enclave. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the incident, stating troops had observed a large group of people near an aid truck that had become stuck in Khan Younis—an area where Israeli military operations were underway. “There are reports of several casualties from IDF gunfire as the crowd approached. The details are being investigated,” the IDF said in a statement.

06:25 AM EDT Khamenei warned he faces ‘a fate similar to Saddam Hussein’ Israel’s defence minister has warned Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei he could face “a fate similar to Saddam Hussein”, The Times of Israel reports. “I warn the Iranian dictator against continuing to commit war crimes and launching missiles at Israeli civilians,” Israel Katz said. “He would do well to remember the fate of the dictator in the country neighbouring Iran who chose this same path against the state of Israel.” Saddam was executed by hanging in 2006 after being convicted of crimes against humanity. In this television screen grab taken from Iraqi national television station Al-iraqia, a video shows the moments leading up to the execution of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein as he is led into the gallows… In this television screen grab taken from Iraqi national television station Al-iraqia, a video shows the moments leading up to the execution of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein as he is led into the gallows room to be prepared for hanging, on December 30, 2006 in Baghdad, Iraq. The former Iraqi president was executed by hanging at 0600 (0300 GMT) in a secure facility in the Northern Baghdad suburb of Khadimeya. More Photo by Al-iraqia via Getty Images

06:10 AM EDT Iran claims strike on Mossad center in Tel Aviv Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have claimed to have struck a Mossad center in Tel Aviv, Agence France-Presse reports. In a statement on state television, the Guards said they “struck the military intelligence centre of the Zionist regime’s army, Aman, and the Zionist regime’s terrorist operations planning centre, the Mossad, in Tel Aviv”. The Guards claimed the building was “currently on fire”. There was no immediate response from Israel.

06:01 AM EDT Iran cancels leave for doctors, nurses and emergency staff Iranian authorities have cancelled all leave for medical personnel nationwide. The directive affects doctors, nurses and emergency staff, reflecting heightened concerns over potential retaliation or regional fallout. Across the capital, banners calling for a “severe” response to Israel were prominently displayed, underscoring the government’s mobilization efforts. Long queues formed at gas stations throughout Tehran, as residents braced for possible disruptions. The government has yet to announce any formal measures affecting fuel distribution, but the panic buying is widespread, The Associated Press reported. Black smoke billows from the headquarters of Iranian state television in Tehran following an Israeli attack on June 16, 2025. The attack occurred during a live broadcast, filling the studio with dust and debris and… Black smoke billows from the headquarters of Iranian state television in Tehran following an Israeli attack on June 16, 2025. The attack occurred during a live broadcast, filling the studio with dust and debris and forcing an anchor to run off camera. More Kyodo via AP Images

05:35 AM EDT Trump seeking ‘a real end’ Trump has been speaking to reporters on board Air Force One and said he was “not too much in the mood to negotiate”. “We’re looking at better than a ceasefire,” he said. He was asked what is better than a ceasefire, and responded: “A real end. Not a ceasefire. An end.” “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, it’s very simple,” he said. “They should have done the deal. I told them, do the deal. So I don’t know. I’m not too much in the mood to negotiate.” When asked why he called for the nine million residents of Tehran to evacuate immediately, Trump said: “I just want people to be safe.” President Trump said on Air Force One that he wants “a real end,” with #Iran “giving up entirely” on its nuclear program. He predicted that Israeli won’t be slowing up its barrage on Iran. “You’re going to find out over the next two days. You’re going to find out. Nobody’s slowed… pic.twitter.com/z9PLFNdjhj — Jason Brodsky (@JasonMBrodsky) June 17, 2025

05:30 AM EDT Tom O’Connor: Iran’s Opposition Is Divisive and Divided As Israel continues an unprecedented military operation against Iran, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly called on Iranians to overthrow their government, going so far as to indicate that his forces’ operations “could certainly” lead to a regime change effort, Tom O’Connor writes. Now, a number of opposition groups based in the country and abroad are calling for a mass uprising against the Islamic Republic. Yet the Iranian government’s domestic foes are composed of a diverse and largely fractured array of factions, including secular dissidents, militias organized along ethnic lines, Islamist militants and those seeking to restore a monarchy with ancient roots. READ IN FULL: As Israel Eyes Regime Change, Iran’s Opposition Is Divisive and Divided People raise flags of Iran and allied factions in Enghelab Square during a rally in Tehran amid Israeli strikes against Iran on June 14, 2025. People raise flags of Iran and allied factions in Enghelab Square during a rally in Tehran amid Israeli strikes against Iran on June 14, 2025. HOSSEIN BERIS/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty Images

05:20 AM EDT Meloni urges Trump to negotiate with Iran Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni stressed “the opportunity to reopen the road of negotiations” with Iran during a bilateral meeting with Trump on the sidelines of the G-7 meeting in Canada, her office said in a statement Tuesday. She also underlined “the necessity in this moment” of reaching a ceasefire in Gaza.

The Trump administration has said the US would not rule out ‘further action’ against Iran to prevent nuclear enrichment.

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have both posted to social media hinting that the United States is considering involvement in the conflict between Israel and Iran, with Trump even raising the possibility of violence against Iran’s leadership.

The first of Tuesday’s posts came from Vance, who wrote a lengthy missive defending Trump’s handling of the conflict and blaming Iran for continuing its nuclear enrichment programme.

“The president has made clear that Iran cannot have uranium enrichment. And he said repeatedly that this would happen one of two ways- the easy way or the ‘other’ way,” Vance wrote.

The vice president proceeded to explain what the “other way” might look like.

“The president has shown remarkable restraint in keeping our military’s focus on protecting our troops and protecting our citizens,” Vance said. “He may decide he needs to take further action to end Iranian enrichment. That decision ultimately belongs to the president.”

Trump himself upped the ante less than an hour later. On his Truth Social platform, the president appeared to threaten Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and called for the country’s “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER”.

“We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding,” Trump wrote.

“He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin.”

The two messages arrive as Iran and Israel continue to exchange missile fire, with experts fearing the outbreak of a wider regional war.

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That prospect has raised questions about whether and how the US might become involved.

Already, Trump has indicated he had prior knowledge of Israel’s initial attack on June 13, and news reports indicate that the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has petitioned Trump to join its military campaign against Iran.

Still, the Trump administration has put some distance between itself and Israel, a longtime ally.

On the night the first attacks were launched by Israel, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement calling Israel’s actions “unilateral” and stressing that the US was “not involved in [the] strikes against Iran”.

Shifting tone

Critics have speculated, however, that Trump may be gradually building a case for more direct US involvement in the conflict.

Prior to the last five days of bombing, the US and Iran had been engaged in months of negotiations to limit Iran’s nuclear programme. Another round of talks had been scheduled for last weekend, but was cancelled amid the escalating violence.

The US has since repositioned warships and military aircraft in the region, in the name of “protecting US forces”.

“These deployments are intended to enhance our defensive posture in the region,” US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a statement.

Trump, meanwhile, has framed the conflict as a result of Iran’s unwillingness to curtail its nuclear programme. As he flew home from the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada overnight, he reemphasised that Iran had missed its opportunity to avoid conflict.

“They should have done the deal. I told them: ‘Do the deal’,” Trump told reporters. “So I don’t know. I’m not too much in the mood to negotiate.”

Iran has long denied seeking a nuclear weapon. But fears that it might develop one anyway have fuelled decades of tensions with the US, Israel and other countries.

In 2015, Iran inked a deal with the US, China, Russia, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the European Union to scale back its nuclear programme, in exchange for sanctions relief. But in 2018, during his first term in office, Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from the pact, causing it to crumble.

He has since pursued a policy of “maximum pressure” on Iran and other US adversaries, a campaign he has continued during his second term.

In March, for instance, Trump blamed Iran for attacks from Yemen’s Houthi rebels, writing, “IRAN will be held responsible, and suffer the consequences, and those consequences will be dire!”

A nuclear question

Those threats have raised concerns, even among Trump’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) base, that the US could once again become embroiled in a costly foreign war.

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On Friday, for instance, the Tucker Carlson Network — led by the eponymous conservative commentator — sent out a morning newsletter lobbying against US involvement in the Iran-Israel conflict.

“If Israel wants to wage this war, it has every right to do so. It is a sovereign country, and it can do as it pleases. But not with America’s backing,” the newsletter read.

Lawmakers have likewise moved to curb any potential US involvement in the conflict.

On Tuesday, US Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, a Republican, joined his Democratic colleague Ro Khanna of California in announcing they would introduce a bill called the Iran War Powers Resolution, which would require the president to seek congressional approval before engaging in the conflict.

Just a day earlier, Democratic Senator Tim Kaine unveiled a similar bill. It would have directed the president to “terminate the use of US Armed Forces for hostilities against Iran”.

The Trump administration, however, has emphasised its position that Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon is a red line that cannot be crossed. On Tuesday, the White House issued a statement stressing that Trump “has never wavered” in his position, linking to dozens of past comments he has made.

Critics, however, have pointed out that Trump has contradicted some members of his own inner circle, who have cast doubt on the likelihood that Iran has a nuclear weapons arsenal.

In March, for instance, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard testified to Congress that the US “continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorised the nuclear weapons programme he suspended in 2003”.

During his overnight flight back to the US, however, Trump dismissed Gabbard’s assessment. “I don’t care what she said. I think they’re very close to having it,” he told reporters.

Gabbard herself has since said her comments were in line with the president’s position.

But the Trump administration’s contradictory statements have raised questions about how its stance towards Iran — and military engagement in the Middle East — might shift in the coming weeks.

Yasmine Taeb, legislative and political director for the advocacy group MPower Change Action Fund, noted that Gabbard’s congressional testimony represented the findings of the entire US intelligence community.

“It’s just reprehensible and incredibly reckless that Trump is not even relying on guidance from his own intelligence,” she told Al Jazeera.

Jamal Abdi, the president of the National Iranian American Council (NIAC), a think tank and political group, also told Al Jazeera that Trump’s comments raise questions about the sources he is relying on for information.

“This makes really clear that this is a war of choice,” he told Al Jazeera. “If he’s not listening to his own intelligence community, who is he listening to? Is it Netanyahu?”

“I mean, at least when [former US President] George W Bush started his endless war, he had the dignity to lie to us about WMDs [weapons of mass destruction],” Abdi continued, citing the claim that helped launch the US invasion of Iraq in 2003.

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“Donald Trump is just saying: ‘I don’t care what the facts are. We’re just doing this anyway because I say so.’”

French President Emmanuel Macron warned against military action targeting Iran that could lead to regime change and potential chaos.

Macron made the remarks at a G7 summit in Canada, shortly after US President Donald Trump said the United States would not target Iran’s supreme leader “for now.”

Speaking to reporters, Macron said Trump appeared to have shifted his stance since meeting G7 leaders on Monday, where he had seemingly advocated for a ceasefire.

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“We don’t want Iran to get a nuclear weapon,” Macron said. “But the biggest error would be to use military strikes to change the regime because it would then be chaos.”

However, Macron acknowledged that Trump has a critical role in restarting diplomacy with Tehran and believes the U.S. president favors a ceasefire between Iran and Israel.

“I believe we need the United States of America to bring everyone back around the table,” Macron told reporters.

Earlier on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump dismissed French President Emmanuel Macron’s claim that he was returning to Washington to work on a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, calling Macron’s characterization of his departure “wrong.”

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump criticized Macron, stating: “Publicity-seeking President Emmanuel Macron, of France, mistakenly said that I left the G7 Summit, in Canada, to go back to DC to work on a ‘ceasefire’ between Israel and Iran. Wrong! He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a ceasefire. Much bigger than that. Whether purposely or not, Emmanuel always gets it wrong. Stay tuned!”

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Macron said Iran’s nuclear program had to be once again be put under international supervision and its ballistic missile arsenal reduced, but he was categorically opposed to strikes on energy infrastructure, civilians and military action that could lead to regime change.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei could face the same fate as Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, who was toppled in a US-led invasion and hanged in 2006 after a trial.

“Does anyone think that what was done in Iraq in 2003 was a good idea? Does anyone think that what was done in Libya the next decade was a good idea? No!,” Macron said.

“I’m also thinking of our friends in the region, in Iraq, Lebanon, and elsewhere. We must help them reduce everything that, indeed, threatens their security, but they need anything but chaos.”

Macron’s comments were also in stark contrast with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who said Israel was doing the “dirty work” for its Western allies, but could fall short without US support.

Published By: Rivanshi Rakhrai Published On: Jun 18, 2025

US President Donald Trump dismissed the assessment of National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, suggesting instead that the country is “very close” to developing a nuclear bomb.

“I don’t care what she said,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One. “I think they were very close to having it.”

Tulsi Gabbard had testified before Congress earlier this year that US intelligence agencies did not believe Iran was actively building a nuclear weapon. In her March testimony, she said, “The intelligence community continues to assess that Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorized the nuclear weapons program he suspended in 2003.”

Gabbard downplays rift Despite the apparent contradiction, Gabbard downplayed the disagreement.

“President Trump was saying the same thing that I said,” she told CNN. Her office referred further inquiries to those remarks.

Gabbard also acknowledged Iran’s increasing uranium stockpile, calling it “unprecedented for a state without nuclear weapons.”

Trump returns early from G7 to focus on Iran-Israel crisis The White House confirmed on Monday that Trump cut short his trip to the Group of Seven summit in the Canadian Rockies to deal with the rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and Iran.

On social media, Trump warned: “Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!”

When asked about the evacuation comment, he told reporters: “I just want people to be safe.”

US strategy: Peace, pressure, and possible diplomacy Trump said he was not seeking a ceasefire but pushing for a longer-term resolution.

He added he wasn’t ruling out diplomacy and mentioned possibly sending Vice President JD Vance and special envoy Steve Witkoff to meet with Iranian officials: “They should talk, and they should talk immediately,” he said.

Israel pushes harder Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described Iran’s nuclear program as an imminent threat and vowed to destroy it entirely.

Israeli forces have already struck multiple sites but have failed to destroy the deeply buried Fordo enrichment facility. Experts say only the US-owned 30,000-pound GBU-57 “bunker buster” could accomplish that—delivered by a B-2 stealth bomber, which Israel does not possess.

Also Read | Trump weighs options on Iran including US strike amid rising tensions: Report