Iran’s leader warns of ‘irreparable damage’ if Trump attacks

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🗞️ Driving the news: Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a stern warning to the U.S. that military involvement in Israel’s strikes against Iran would lead to “irreparable damage"
 • This comes after U.S. President Donald Trump demanded "unconditional surrender" from Iran and hinted at potential military action
• Meanwhile, European diplomats are scheduled to meet with Iranian officials in Switzerland to discuss the nuclear program amidst escalating tensions

🔭 The context: The conflict between Israel and Iran has reached new heights after Israel’s military strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, which are believed to be part of efforts to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons
• This escalation follows months of diplomatic tension and stalled negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, exacerbating regional security concerns
• Khamenei's comments underscore the delicate balance between military power and diplomatic resolution

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The ongoing conflict risks not only regional destabilization but also the broader non-proliferation framework
• A potential U.S. military intervention could further escalate the situation, affecting not just Israel and Iran, but also triggering wider global consequences
• The unfolding developments highlight the fragility of diplomatic solutions in the face of military escalation and the urgent need for negotiations to prevent nuclear proliferation

⏭️ What's next: The U.S. is reportedly weighing its next steps, including potentially joining Israel’s military efforts, while European powers continue their push for diplomacy
• With casualties rising and the stakes higher than ever, the upcoming talks in Switzerland may be pivotal in determining whether a diplomatic breakthrough is possible or if military engagement becomes inevitable
• The international community is closely watching the developments, with calls for de-escalation intensifying

💬 One quote: “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.” – Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Supreme Leader of Iran

📈 One stat: Over 400 European Union citizens have been evacuated from Israel amidst the escalating conflict, as part of the EU’s emergency response to the crisis

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