Iran Won’t Surrender, Khamenei Tells Trump — Says Tehran Doesn’t Respond To 'Language of Threat'

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei on Wednesday responded to US President Donald Trump's warning that the country should "unconditionally surrender", stating that Tehran does not respond well to the "language of threat".

He further described Israel's assault on Iran as a grave miscalculation.

Photo Credit: AP/PTI

"Israel made a huge mistake and will be punished for that," he declared during a speech.

Khamenei asserted that Iran would not accept either an imposed peace or war.

Addressing Trump's threats, he said: "Those who know Iran's history know that Iranians do not answer well to the language of threat."

He also issued a stern warning to the United States.

"They should know that Iran will not surrender, and any US strike will have serious, irreparable consequences," he added.

Israel strikes Tehran

A series of powerful Israeli air raids struck the Iranian capital in the early hours of Wednesday, representing the most direct and intense escalation yet in a week-long military campaign aimed at disabling Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure.

The bombardment occurred only hours after Trump urged residents of Tehran to evacuate and demanded Iran's "unconditional surrender".

Trump also issued a pointed warning, claiming the US knew the whereabouts of Khamenei.

"We know exactly where the so-called "Supreme Leader" is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there - We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don't want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter," he posted on Truth Social.

Thousands flee Tehran

Thousands began fleeing Tehran on Wednesday following Israeli air strikes on the city overnight.

According to Reuters, citing sources, Trump is weighing up options that include joining Israel in striking Iranian nuclear facilities.

Israel claimed that 50 fighter jets targeted approximately 20 locations in Tehran overnight, including facilities manufacturing raw materials, components, and systems used in missile production.

At least 585 people have been confirmed dead in Iran, with 1,277 injured. In Israel, at least 24 people have died since Iran began its retaliatory attacks.