Tehran [Iran], June 19: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has called on the Iranian people to remain steadfast amid rising tensions with Israel and increasing international pressure. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Khamenei warned against showing weakness, stating:
“I would like to tell our dear nation that if the enemy senses that you fear them, they won't let go of you. Continue the behaviour you have had up to this day—with strength.”
[Source: https://x.com/khamenei_ir/status/1935662104192937992]
Khamenei also dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for “unconditional surrender,” warning that any American military intervention would bring “irreparable damage.” In a televised address, he said:
“Those who understand Iran and its history know that threats are not the language to use. The Iranian nation cannot be subdued.”
The rhetoric follows sharp remarks from Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz, who, after inspecting the aftermath of a missile strike in Holon, labeled Khamenei “the modern Hitler.” Katz asserted that under Israel's war objectives, Khamenei “cannot continue to exist,” citing Iran’s calls for the destruction of Israel.
Meanwhile, President Trump hinted at possible U.S. military involvement, stating, “Nobody knows what I’m going to do,” though he added that diplomatic engagement remains possible. He also claimed Iran had shown interest in talks, saying “nothing’s too late” for a nuclear deal.
On the military front, Israeli spokesperson Effie Defrin said the IDF had disabled hundreds of Iranian missile launchers, though Iran still retains launch capabilities. Defrin emphasized that public vigilance remains the most effective civilian defense.
