The conflict between Iran and Israel surged dramatically on Wednesday as Israeli airstrikes rocked Tehran, hours after Israel urged residents in key areas to evacuate. Explosions in the early hours caused panic across the Iranian capital, although Iranian officials have not officially confirmed the extent of damage.
Khamenei Declares War: “The Battle Begins”
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei took to social media with a stark declaration of war. In a symbolic and religiously charged message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Khamenei wrote:
“In the name of the renowned #Haydar, the battle begins.
Ali, with his Zulfiqar, to #Khaybar returns.”
The post invoked Islamic symbolism, with Haydar referring to Imam Ali, a central figure in Shia Islam, and Zulfiqar, his legendary double-edged sword. The reference to Khaybar, a historic battle led by Imam Ali, signals a call to arms and resistance.
Later, Khamenei followed up with another warning:
“We must act forcefully against the terrorist Zionist entity. We will not show leniency toward the Zionists.”
Missile Exchanges Enter Day 6
As the war entered its sixth consecutive day, Iran claimed it launched hypersonic missiles targeting Israeli cities overnight. At the same time, Israel intensified its offensive, striking Imam Hossein University—a facility linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)—and the Khojir missile production complex near Tehran, according to Iranian media reports cited by Reuters.
While explosions were confirmed across Tehran, official acknowledgment from Iranian authorities has been limited. No casualty figures were immediately available.
Sirens in Israel Amid Retaliation
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported multiple sirens across Israeli cities following a barrage of Iranian missiles. According to the IDF:
“Sirens were sounded due to a hostile aircraft infiltration. A suspicious air target crossing from the east was intercepted by the Air Force.”
Israel said the interceptions followed protocol, and no major damage was reported.
Trump Demands Iran’s ‘Unconditional Surrender’
Former US President Donald Trump added fuel to the fire, calling for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” amid rising casualties and threats of a broader regional war. Meanwhile, reports emerged suggesting Khamenei has transferred key powers to Iran’s military command, indicating a state of wartime centralization.
What’s Next?
With both nations engaging in direct missile strikes, escalating rhetoric, and mobilizing key military assets, the conflict shows no signs of de-escalation. Analysts warn that the region may be headed toward a full-scale war, with global implications if diplomacy fails.
Stay tuned for more developments as this story unfolds.