Israel Intensifies Strikes; UN Flags Growing Humanitarian Crisis
News Desk: US President Donald Trump has taken a hardline stance on the escalating Iran conflict, declaring that the United States will accept nothing short of Iran’s “unconditional surrender” before considering any negotiations.
In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote in capital letters: “There will be no deal with Iran except UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!” He added that once a “strong and acceptable” leadership emerges in Tehran, the US and its allies would be ready to assist in rebuilding the country and restoring its economy.
Trump also refrained from setting a definite deadline for ending the conflict. In a recent interview, he suggested that key objectives might be achieved within four to five weeks, but emphasized that there were “no time limits” as long as the mission was completed successfully.
The US president further claimed he would like to have a role in choosing Iran’s next Supreme Leader following reports of the death of Ali Khamenei and several senior Iranian officials during the ongoing hostilities.
Israel Says War Entering ‘Next Phase’, Launches Major Strike
The conflict intensified after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that around 50 Israeli fighter jets conducted a large-scale airstrike in Tehran.
According to the Israeli military, the operation targeted an underground military bunker beneath a leadership complex linked to Khamenei. The IDF shared footage of the strike on social media, claiming the attack destroyed a crucial command facility used by Iran’s top leadership.
Reports cited by Xinhua News Agency suggest that the leadership compound spans several streets in central Tehran and includes multiple fortified entrances and secure meeting rooms for senior Iranian officials. The underground bunker was believed to be among the regime’s most critical command centres.
UN Warns of Escalating Humanitarian Crisis
Amid the rising violence, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has raised alarm over a rapidly worsening humanitarian situation across the Middle East.
UNHCR’s Director for Emergencies, Ayaki Ito, said the conflict is already triggering large-scale displacement across the region and into Southwest Asia.
According to the UN agency, nearly 25 million people in the affected areas are currently refugees, internally displaced persons, or recent returnees, placing immense pressure on neighbouring countries hosting them.
UNHCR said it is coordinating with governments and humanitarian partners to mobilize emergency assistance and ensure civilians can cross borders safely if they seek protection.
The latest developments signal a widening crisis as diplomatic prospects dim and military operations intensify across the region.
