Israel-Iran live updates: IDF says it killed Iran's new wartime chief of staff
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Trump Weighs US Strike on Iran Nuclear Sites Amid Escalation
Above: Israel’s ‘Iron Dome’ intercepts incoming Iranian missiles above Tel Aviv on June 18, 2025. Image copyright: Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-US narrative
U.S. patience with Iran is beginning to wear thin as the country continues to escalate the conflict with Israel. Iran should be aware that the U.S. has total air superiority in the region and that if Iran targets American civilians or military personnel, there will be serious consequences. In light of its current predicament, the Iranian regime should surrender.
Pro-Israel narrative
The IDF’s successful raid against targets in Tehran is a severe blow to the Iranian regime. The IAF’s operation has successfully dismantled not only several Iranian weapon facilities but also a centrifuge production site, which is crucial to the regime’s efforts to produce weapons-grade uranium. The airstrikes have significantly reduced Iran’s ability to threaten Israel and the wider region.
Pro-Iran narrative
Iran has every right to defend itself against Israel's incessant attacks on its territory. The deployment of hypersonic missiles against targets in the occupied territories and Tel Aviv is a necessary response to the sustained attacks suffered by Tehran on Wednesday. The success of these strikes sends a clear message to Israel and the U.S. that Iran will stand its ground against foreign aggression.