The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran has continued to unfold, with new developments emerging on Tuesday (June 17, 2025). After a surprise attack on Iran’s military and nuclear program, Israel appeared to be expanding its air campaign on Tehran, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump to issue a warning for residents to evacuate the city.
President Trump, in a statement, expressed his desire for a “real end” to the nuclear problem with Iran, emphasizing the need for Iran to completely abandon its pursuit of nuclear weapons. This comes in the wake of reports from U.S. spies indicating that Iran was not actively building a nuclear weapon, a claim that Trump dismissed.
As tensions rise, the Indian Embassy in Iran has taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and People of Indian Origin in Tehran. They have urged those using their own vehicles to leave the city for a safer location outside, while Indian students have been relocated for their safety. Additionally, arrangements have been made for some Indians to leave Iran through the border with Armenia.
On the military front, Israel claimed to have killed Ali Shadmani, whom they identified as Iran’s wartime chief of staff and the most senior military commander. This comes as part of Israel’s broader assault on Iran’s military leaders, nuclear scientists, uranium enrichment sites, and ballistic missile program. The strikes, which have been ongoing since Friday, have resulted in the deaths of at least 224 people.
Amidst the escalating conflict, leaders of the Group of Seven countries meeting in Canada have signed a joint statement calling for de-escalation of the fighting between Israel and Iran, while reiterating their stance that Iran cannot be allowed to possess a nuclear bomb. The situation remains fluid, with the international community closely monitoring the developments in the region.