Former US President Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warning that the United States would “absolutely” bomb Iran again if it restarts its nuclear weapons programme. Trump’s comments came in response to Khamenei’s recent declaration of “victory” in the 12-day war with Israel, and his claims that Iran had “slapped America in the face.”
Taking to his Truth Social platform on Friday, Trump accused Khamenei of lying “blatantly and foolishly” and claimed he had personally intervened to prevent Israeli and American forces from eliminating the Iranian leader. “His country was decimated, his three evil nuclear sites were OBLITERATED… and I knew EXACTLY where he was sheltered,” Trump posted. “I would not let Israel or the U.S. Armed Forces… terminate his life.”
Trump Vows to Bomb Iran If Nuclear Efforts Resume
Speaking at a White House news conference earlier in the day, Trump reaffirmed his stance when asked if he would authorise further military action. “Sure, without question, absolutely,” he said, adding that inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or another credible body should resume at once.
However, Iran has taken a confrontational stance following the US-led strikes on its Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz nuclear sites, pushing forward legislation to suspend cooperation with the IAEA. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Friday that Iran may refuse IAEA requests to access bombed facilities.
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“IAEA Director General Grossi’s insistence on visiting the bombed sites under the pretext of safeguards is meaningless and possibly even malign in intent,” Araghchi wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Iran reserves the right to take any steps in defence of its interests, its people and its sovereignty.”
Meanwhile, IAEA chief Rafael Grossi has said that restarting inspections in Iran is his “top priority,” as no verification activities have occurred since Israel began bombing on June 13.
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Israel Signals Continued Military Readiness
As tensions remain high, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Friday that Israel’s military remains on alert. He stated that a comprehensive “enforcement plan” is underway to maintain air superiority, disrupt missile development, and counter Iran’s support for regional terrorism.Katz also revealed that Israel had considered assassinating Khamenei during the conflict, saying on Thursday that they “wanted to eliminate Khamenei” and “would not have required US permission” to do so.
While conflicting narratives persist about the extent of the damage inflicted on Iran’s nuclear programme, a leaked intelligence report suggests that the U.S. and Israeli strikes may have only delayed Iran’s nuclear ambitions by a few months.
