On the sixth day of a devastating aerial war between Iran and Israel, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning to the United States.
In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Khamenei cautioned that any US intervention in the conflict would result in “irreparable damage.”
The harm the US will suffer will definitely be irreparable if they enter this conflict militarily.
— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) June 18, 2025
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei breaks silence, vows harsh retaliation
Khamenei, who had remained silent since Israel launched its bombing campaign last Friday, responded with defiance, declaring, “We must give a strong response to the terrorist Zionist regime. 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
His remarks marked his first public statement since the violence erupted, signalling Iran’s intent to escalate further if provoked.
President Trump’s provocative statement fuels tensions
The Supreme Leader’s warning followed inflammatory comments by former US President Donald Trump.
On Tuesday, US President Trump demanded Iran’s ‘unconditional surrender’ and suggested that the US could assassinate Khamenei.
In a controversial social media post, President 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.”
Missile Strikes, Escalation & Civilian Toll
The war escalated after Israeli fighter jets struck multiple targets inside Iran, including military and nuclear facilities in Tehran.
Iran retaliated swiftly, claiming it launched hypersonic missiles at Israel, marking a first in the region’s history of warfare.
The exchange has intensified with daily air raid sirens in both nations, and diplomatic communication has come to a standstill.
Khamenei declares Iran will not surrender
Khamenei doubled down on his stance, asserting, “Iran will never surrender,” in a separate statement.
His unwavering rhetoric comes amid growing Western pressure and global concern over the conflict’s expansion.
While Israel maintains that its strikes aim to degrade Iran’s nuclear capabilities, human rights groups have reported extensive damage to civilian infrastructure and significant loss of life.
Bombings have affected residential areas, drawing international condemnation.
Iran prepares for broader response
Tehran has signalled readiness for further escalation.
A close aide to Khamenei stated that Iran’s military command has been placed on high alert and that further retaliatory strikes are likely if Israel continues its offensive.
Khamenei is expected to deliver a major televised address later this week—his first since the outbreak of war.
Observers believe the speech will outline Iran’s next military and political moves as fears of a wider regional conflict grow.
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