Donald Trump's Tehran warning triggers global alarm
In the last few days, Iran and Israel have been going back and forth with drones and bomb attacks. It started when Israel attacked Iran on 12-13 June, targeting its nuclear set-up. The following day, Israel bombed several infrastructures related to Iran's nuclear program, killing a few high-ranking officials and nuclear scientists.
In these attacks, there were several lives lost, and then Iran retaliated by bombing cities in Israel.
Now, the operation has taken a dramatic turn. In an unprecedented move, President Donald Trump posted a message on his Truth Social. He has urged residents of Tehran to evacuate immediately. The post read: "IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON... Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!"
The conflict between Israel and Iran has escalated, which has prompted widespread panic. There is also speculation about potential U.S. involvement. Trump's message appeared to coincide with his early departure from the G7 summit in Canada. Donald Trump left the summit, citing the escalating crisis as his reason for leaving.
Trump's sudden departure from the summit highlighted the gravity of the unfolding events. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the situation as "urgent." In a very typical way, Karoline Leavitt stated that the President needed to return for "obvious reasons" without giving the reasons.
Trump also addressed the reporters briefly before his departure. He hinted at his close communication with regional allies. He also stressed his administration's firm stance against Iran's nuclear ambitions. However, when asked, Trump refused to endorse a joint G7 statement calling for de-escalation. Apparently, he doesn't like to share the limelight.
After Israel attacked critical infrastructure in Tehran, the tensions reached new heights. These air strikes also damaged a state-run television studio that was broadcasting live when hit.
Israel has released warnings for the civilians living in the capital city. These warnings had intensified fears of a full-scale assault. After these warnings, Trump's evacuation message caused a full-on panic in the city.
Iranian authorities have urged over 330,000 residents in key districts of Tehran to evacuate. Eyewitnesses described widespread chaos. There are massive traffic jams, and thousands have already fled the city. The lack of designated bomb shelters forced many civilians to seek refuge in basements, schools, and makeshift camps.
There are concerns and sanctions among several world leaders. Both nations have nuclear bombs, and the situation seems to be escalating every day. Any more conflict will pull other countries in and can cause the spread of damage and destruction.
However, Iranian officials have dismissed Trump's post as psychological warfare. They have accused the U.S. and Israel of creating panic. Yet the situation on the ground remained volatile. The ongoing missile exchanges between Iran and Israel have resulted in heavy casualties.
Current estimates suggest at least 224 Iranians and 24 Israelis have died. Despite the urgency of the situation, Trump resisted calls for formal U.S. military intervention. He has instead signaled possible behind-the-scenes support for Israeli actions.
French President Emmanuel Macron revealed that President Trump had conveyed a ceasefire offer to Tehran, though not all the details have been made public.
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