Israel-Iran Conflict: Khamenei rejects US call for unconditional surrender, warns of ‘irreparable damage’

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday rejected American calls for unconditional surrender and warned that any direct US military involvement would lead to “irreparable damage to them”, AP reported.

His sharp remarks came amid ongoing Israeli strikes on Iran and as European diplomats prepared to meet Iranian officials for nuclear talks on Friday.

This marked Khamenei’s second public appearance since the Israeli offensive began six days ago. Meanwhile, Israel signalled a slight easing of tensions by lifting some daily life restrictions, suggesting the immediate missile threat from Iran may be waning.

Trump ups rhetoric as US bolsters military presence

Khamenei’s remarks followed a social media post by US President Donald Trump, who urged Iran to surrender “without conditions” and appeared to threaten the Supreme Leader, writing that the US “knows where he is but has no plans to kill him, ‘at least not for now’”.

While initially distancing himself from Israel’s surprise attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, Trump has since hinted at a larger role for the US in the conflict. “He wants something ‘much bigger’ than a ceasefire,” reports said, as Washington dispatched more warships and aircraft to the region.

 Europe steps in with Geneva talks

A European official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that senior diplomats from Germany, France and the UK, along with the EU’s top diplomat, will hold nuclear talks with Iran in Geneva on Friday. There are currently no plans for US participation, although that could change, according to a US official familiar with the ongoing diplomatic exchanges.

In a parallel diplomatic effort, the UN Security Council will convene for a second emergency session on Friday at the request of Russia, China and Pakistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed readiness to mediate, proposing a settlement that allows Tehran to maintain a peaceful nuclear programme while addressing Israel’s security concerns.

“In my view, a solution could be found,” Putin told reporters during a press session.

Netanyahu thanks Trump, hails strong bilateral ties

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked Trump in a video message for supporting Israel, calling him “a great friend of Israel” and highlighting America’s role in bolstering its defences.

“We speak constantly, including last night,” Netanyahu said on Wednesday. “We had a very warm conversation.”

 ‘Iranian nation is not one to surrender’

Khamenei, in a low-resolution video featuring only beige curtains, an Iranian flag, and a portrait of the late Grand Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, dismissed Trump’s threats.

“Wise individuals who know Iran, its people and its history never speak to this nation with the language of threats, because the Iranian nation is not one to surrender,” he said. He added, “Americans should know that any military involvement by the US will undoubtedly result in irreparable damage to them.” Iran pre-released the statement before airing the video, possibly for security reasons. Khamenei’s exact location remains unknown.

(With inputs from AP)