Has Khamenei Initiated a New Battle with Iran's Missile Launch Against Israel?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Khamenei's declaration escalates military tensions.
- Israel's airstrikes have resulted in significant casualties.
- US President Trump has shown strong support for Israel.
- The conflict threatens ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
- Israel claims to have delayed Iran's nuclear ambitions.
Tel Aviv, June 18 (NationPress) Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei proclaimed that the "battle has begun" following Tehran's launch of a hypersonic missile aimed at Israel. This escalation has further complicated the already unstable conflict, marking the sixth day of military confrontations between Iran and Israel on Wednesday.
In response, Israel has executed a series of devastating airstrikes within Iranian territory, reportedly resulting in the deaths of at least 224 individuals, including high-ranking military officials, nuclear scientists, and civilians. Iran's retaliation has included multiple attacks on Israeli locations, leading to the reported deaths of at least 24 individuals, among them women and children, according to Israeli authorities.
On Tuesday, the Israeli military confirmed that they detected further missile launches originating from Iran.
The escalating situation has raised international alarm, prompting US President Donald Trump to truncate his participation in the G7 summit in Canada. Before his departure, he expressed unwavering support for Israel and issued a stern warning to Tehran's residents, advising them to evacuate in preparation for possible escalation.
The conflict ignited last Friday when Israel launched a significant offensive aimed at crippling Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities, which incited swift and forceful retaliation from Tehran, edging the region closer to a wider war.
These events unfold amid fragile diplomatic efforts between Iran and the US to revive discussions regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the media, asserting that Israel’s actions have substantially delayed Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “I believe we have set them back a very, very long time,” he claimed.