Tehran/Jerusalem/New Delhi, June 17, 2025: Israel appears to be intensifying its aerial campaign against Iran, just five days after launching a surprise attack targeting Tehran’s military and nuclear infrastructure. The escalation comes amid a stark warning from U.S. President Donald Trump, who posted an alarming message urging Tehran residents to evacuate, calling for a “real end” to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Trump’s statement on Tuesday underlined the U.S.’s support for Israel’s offensive, emphasizing that Iran must “give up entirely” on pursuing nuclear weapons.
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India Begins Evacuation Measures
As the conflict intensifies, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced urgent safety measures for Indian nationals in Iran. The Indian Embassy in Tehran advised all Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) to leave the city using personal vehicles and relocate to safer areas. Indian students in the capital have already been moved out with the help of the Embassy, while others have been facilitated to exit via the Iran-Armenia border.
Israel Targets Top Iranian Military Leader
In a major development, Israel’s military claimed it had killed Ali Shadmani, Iran’s wartime chief of staff and one of its top commanders. This comes as part of Israel’s broader assault on Iran’s key military and nuclear figures, including nuclear scientists, uranium enrichment facilities, and ballistic missile infrastructure. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) argue the strikes are essential to prevent Iran from advancing further in its nuclear weapons development.
According to reports, at least 224 people have been killed in the Israeli strikes since Friday.
Global Reaction and G7 Appeal for De-escalation
Meanwhile, the Group of Seven (G7) leaders, meeting in Canada, signed a joint statement urging restraint and de-escalation between Israel and Iran. The G7 reaffirmed its longstanding position that Iran must not be allowed to obtain a nuclear bomb, underscoring the global concern over a broader regional conflict.
As the situation continues to evolve rapidly, diplomatic channels remain strained and the region on edge.