In an intensifying war of words following days of military confrontation, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have exchanged sharp accusations, each claiming strategic victory. Meanwhile, Israel reports heavy strikes on enemy targets, and Iran touts its missile retaliation as a sign of strength.
Trump to Khamenei: “You Were Hit Hard—This Should End Now”
Speaking in a fiery statement, Donald Trump accused Iran’s Supreme Leader of dishonesty, stating:
“Khamenei foolishly claimed he won the war, but he knows he’s lying. His country has been devastated. Three nuclear sites were destroyed. I knew exactly where he was hiding but didn’t let the Israeli and American forces target him. I saved him from a humiliating death, and he didn’t even say, ‘Thank you, President Trump.’”
Trump added that Israel was preparing for a “massive and decisive strike” that would have caused large-scale Iranian casualties, but he personally halted the operation.
“I was even considering easing sanctions on Iran,” he continued, “but after such disrespectful and hateful remarks, that consideration is now suspended.”
Iran Hits Back: “Respect the Supreme Leader If You Want Peace”
In a defiant response, Iranian officials insisted that their missile attacks sent a clear message to both Israel and the U.S.
“If you want negotiations, start by respecting the Supreme Leader,” read the statement. “Israel suffered a defeat. After a rain of missiles, it had to run to its ‘father’ to save itself. Iran will continue to expand its military capabilities.”
Israel Claims Precision Strikes; Gaza Counts the Dead
Israel, for its part, announced that it has carried out targeted operations deep within enemy territory.
“We have struck several strategic and military installations of our enemies,” said an Israeli military spokesperson. “The objectives were achieved with high precision.”
At the same time, the humanitarian toll continues to rise. In the last 24 hours alone, more than 150 Palestinians have reportedly been killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza, according to local health officials.
All Sides Claim Victory, But at what cost?
The unfolding conflict has seen all parties—Israel, Iran, and the United States—asserting military success. However, analysts warn that behind the rhetoric lies a dangerous escalation with no clear endgame.
As the situation develops, civilian populations, particularly in Gaza, continue to bear the brunt of regional power plays.
