War – Iran Envoy in India Condemns US and Israel Over Escalating Conflict
War – Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, has strongly criticised recent military actions carried out by the United States and Israel, describing the ongoing confrontation as a deeper ideological struggle rather than a conventional geopolitical dispute.
Addressing media representatives in New Delhi after reports of military strikes targeting Iranian interests, the ambassador said the present developments should be viewed through a broader moral and political lens. According to him, the confrontation goes beyond strategic rivalries and reflects opposing views about justice, sovereignty and international conduct.
Ambassador Describes Conflict as Ideological Struggle
Fathali said the current crisis represents a clash between competing principles. He suggested that the events unfolding in the region highlight a divide between what he described as justice and dignity on one side and domination and injustice on the other.
The envoy argued that the recent attacks represent more than a military escalation. In his view, they also raise serious concerns about international norms and the rights of independent nations.
According to Fathali, Iran believes that its sovereignty and the principles of international law have been violated. He added that such actions could set troubling precedents if global powers are allowed to intervene militarily without broader international consensus.
Iran Emphasises National Resolve
During his remarks, the ambassador emphasised that Iran remains determined despite the mounting pressure. He said the country and its citizens remain committed to defending their national interests regardless of the challenges they face.
Fathali also highlighted what he described as a strong sense of resilience among the Iranian people. He indicated that the country views its struggle as one tied to national pride and independence, asserting that Iran will continue to stand firm in the face of military and political pressure.
US Military Operation Intensifies
Meanwhile, the United States Central Command confirmed a major expansion of its ongoing military campaign targeting Iranian assets. In a statement shared through social media, the command said that thousands of targets inside Iran had been struck within the first week of the operation.
The campaign, referred to as Operation Epic Fury, has reportedly involved large-scale airstrikes and coordinated military actions across several strategic locations.
Officials said the operation remains active and ongoing, signalling that the United States intends to maintain pressure on Iranian military infrastructure.
Trump Demands Iran’s Unconditional Surrender
Alongside the military developments, US President Donald Trump issued a strong statement regarding Washington’s position on negotiations with Tehran.
Writing on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump said that diplomatic engagement with Iran would only be possible if the country accepts what he described as unconditional surrender. He added that any future agreement would depend on a significant change in Iran’s leadership.
Trump also suggested that the United States and its partners could help rebuild Iran’s economy and political system after such a transition. In his message, he echoed his well-known campaign slogan by introducing a phrase referring to a future effort to “Make Iran Great Again.”
Rising Tensions After Strike on Iranian Leadership
The latest escalation follows a dramatic week of conflict in the region. On 28 February, a coordinated military strike by the United States and Israel reportedly killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with several senior officials.
The incident triggered a rapid and forceful response from Iran. In retaliation, Tehran launched multiple waves of drone and missile attacks targeting US military facilities and Israeli-linked positions across several Arab countries.
Israel has also expanded military operations beyond Iran, conducting strikes in Lebanon aimed at Hezbollah infrastructure.
Speculation Over Iran’s Next Supreme Leader
Amid the growing instability, questions have emerged about Iran’s future leadership. Reports circulating in international media suggested that Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late Supreme Leader, could be a potential successor.
However, Iranian authorities have dismissed such speculation. Through its Consulate General in Mumbai, the government stated that the reports regarding leadership succession have no official basis and should not be considered accurate.
President Trump, meanwhile, indicated in an interview that Washington would closely watch developments surrounding Iran’s next leadership, stating that the United States would oppose any successor who continues policies similar to those of the previous administration.
Fresh Strikes and Counterattacks Continue
The military confrontation has continued with renewed intensity. Early Saturday, explosions were reported in Tehran following airstrikes that targeted key infrastructure.
Video footage analysed by international media organisations showed fires burning near Mehrabad Airport, one of the Iranian capital’s main aviation hubs. Thick smoke was seen rising above the area after the reported attacks.
Iran’s state media later confirmed that several explosions occurred in both eastern and western districts of the city shortly after Israel announced a new wave of strikes.
In response, Iran launched missile attacks toward Israel. Witnesses in Tel Aviv reported seeing multiple interceptions in the sky as Israeli air defence systems attempted to neutralise incoming projectiles.
The rapidly escalating exchanges have significantly raised concerns about civilian safety and regional stability, with analysts warning that continued retaliation could further widen the conflict across the Middle East.