Israel Issues Stark Warning to Iran's Supreme Leader
In an unprecedented escalation, Israel has declared that Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, "can no longer be allowed to exist". This statement came amid a sharp intensification of hostilities following Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes, which notably included an attack on an Israeli hospital, injuring nearly 40 people.
Israel’s Defence Minister emphasized the gravity of the situation, asserting that the Israel Defence Forces have been ordered to take decisive action to neutralize Khamenei, whom they see as the central figure behind Iran's ongoing antagonism.
Hospital Attack and Rising Casualties
The recent Iranian missile strike targeted Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, southern Israel, causing significant damage but, fortunately, no fatalities. Emergency responders rushed to evacuate patients as thick black smoke engulfed the area. Additional missile attacks hit residential buildings and a high-rise near Tel Aviv, resulting in widespread injuries.
On both sides, the human toll continues to mount. Iranian sources report more than 639 deaths—including 263 civilians—and upwards of 1,300 wounded. Israel suffered at least 24 fatalities and hundreds of injuries amid around 400 Iranian missile and drone assaults.
Escalation Over Iran's Nuclear Program
The conflict’s roots lie in Israeli airstrikes against Iranian military installations, high-ranking officers, and nuclear scientists, aiming to disrupt Iran’s nuclear ambitions. In a further act of retaliation, Israel launched airstrikes on Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor, striking a major blow to the country's nuclear infrastructure.
This tit-for-tat has pushed both nations dangerously close to broader conflict, with Israel targeting vital Iranian military sites with ballistic missiles as Iran continues its missile barrage against Israeli targets.
US Position on Targeting Khamenei
Although Israel seeks to hold Khamenei accountable, the United States has so far ruled out direct action against him. The US president recently clarified that while Khamenei is a known and accessible target, the US will not move to eliminate him "at least not for now." However, Washington’s frustration is clear, warning against missile attacks on civilians and American forces.
Looking Ahead
As tensions soar with mounting casualties and infrastructure damage, the risk of further escalation looms large in the volatile Middle East. Both sides remain locked in a fierce exchange, with global eyes watching closely as the situation continues to unravel.
