Iran's President Firmly Rejects US Surrender Demand as Regional Fighting Intensifies
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has delivered a defiant response to America's demand for unconditional surrender, labeling it a 'dream that they should take to their grave' as hostilities spread rapidly across the Middle East and Gulf states. In a televised address on Saturday, Pezeshkian addressed the nation, offering apologies for recent Iranian strikes on neighbouring countries while outlining a new defensive stance.
Apology and New Military Policy Announced
During his speech, President Pezeshkian expressed regret for attacks launched by Iran against its neighbours, attributing the incidents to confusion within the country's armed forces following the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. 'I should apologise to the neighbouring countries that were attacked by Iran, on my own behalf,' he stated. He further declared that Iran would refrain from targeting neighbouring nations or firing missiles at them unless provoked by attacks originating from those territories.
Escalation of Violence Across the Gulf Region
The conflict has now expanded significantly, with Iranian assaults reported in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates on Saturday. In Dubai, air defence systems were activated after explosions shook the city, prompting authorities to rush passengers at Dubai International Airport into train tunnels as air raid sirens blared. Saudi Arabia successfully intercepted Iranian drones targeting its critical oil fields and shot down a ballistic missile aimed at a US military base in the region.
Human Cost and International Response
The death toll continues to mount, with at least 1,230 fatalities confirmed in Iran, over 200 in Lebanon, and approximately a dozen in Israel. In response to the escalating crisis, US President Donald Trump has authorised a £120 million arms sale to Israel and issued warnings of an intense bombing campaign if the situation deteriorates further. The ongoing violence shows no signs of abating, leaving regional stability in jeopardy.
Smoke and fire were witnessed rising from Mehrabad International Airport in Tehran following airstrikes, underscoring the severity of the conflict. As tensions persist, the international community watches closely, with fears of a broader regional war growing by the day.
