TL/DR –
Iran has rejected a proposed ceasefire and seeks a permanent end to the ongoing conflict, as reported by the state-run IRNA news agency. Meanwhile, the US and Israel have launched attacks on Iran, resulting in 25+ casualties and prompting missile retaliation from Iran. In other news, U.S. President Donald Trump has given Iran until Tuesday night to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on its power plants and infrastructure, and has expressed frustration at NATO allies’ refusal to support offensive operations against Iran.
Iran Rejects Ceasefire Proposal Amid US-Israeli Assault
Iran has dismissed a recent ceasefire proposal, demanding a definitive end to the hostilities, as reported by the state-run IRNA news agency on Monday.
The ultimatum was delivered as the deadline set by U.S. President Donald Trump for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz approaches. Trump has threatened to target Iran’s power plants and infrastructure.
On Monday, a joint wave of attacks by Israel and the United States resulted in over 25 Iranian casualties. Iran retaliated with missile attacks on Israel and its Gulf Arab allies.
Escalating Tensions in Pacific Region
President Trump expressed frustration over the lack of support from Pacific allies for U.S. offensive operations against Iran. He singled out South Korea, Australia, and Japan for not aiding in reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump’s Threat to Iran’s Infrastructure
President Trump outlined the severe consequences for Iran if a deal isn’t reached with the U.S. by his upcoming deadline. He claimed that, due to U.S. military power, every Iranian bridge could be decimated within hours.
International Law and Civilian Targets
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned the U.S. that attacking civilian infrastructure violates international law. An attack would be prohibited if it poses a risk of “excessive incidental civilian harm”, according to Guterres’ spokesperson.
Israeli Military Prepares for Extended Battle
Amid the lack of a ceasefire agreement, Israel’s military chief has approved battle plans for the next three weeks. The Israeli defense industry also announced a $750 million rocket system export deal with Greece.
Downed U.S. Fighter Jet and Civilian Casualties
According to Trump, a U.S. F-15E fighter jet was downed by an Iranian shoulder-launched rocket. Furthermore, Trump suggested that Iranian civilians are asking for continued U.S. bombings, asserting they’re “willing to suffer … in order to have freedom.”
Iran’s Supreme Leader Issues Public Statement
Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei made a public statement expressing condolences for the loss of the Revolutionary Guard’s intelligence chief. He also commended the sacrifice of Iranian soldiers in his statement.
Trump’s Ultimatums and Warnings
Trump warned Iran of severe consequences should it not capitulate by the set deadline. His threats extend to Iran’s bridges and power plants, with implications of further, undisclosed threats.
Israeli and American Collaboration
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that an attack on Iran’s petrochemical facility aimed to disrupt the Revolutionary Guard’s “money machine”. He also revealed that Israel had provided assistance in the U.S. rescue mission of two aircrew members in Iran.
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