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President Donald Trump has called for Iran to "surrender" to end the ongoing conflict and has claimed that Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, may already be dead. In a phone interview with NBC News, Trump stated, "I'm hearing he's not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that's surrender."
The statement comes amid escalating tensions following the U.S. and Israeli military campaign against Iran, which began on February 28. The conflict has already resulted in significant casualties, including the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Mojtaba's father. Iranian officials have denied U.S. influence over the selection of the new leader, emphasizing that it was an internal decision made by the Assembly of Experts.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has rejected Trump's assertions, emphasizing Iran's sovereignty in choosing its leadership. Araghchi also condemned the U.S. attacks on Iranian infrastructure, including a freshwater desalination plant, warning of severe consequences.
The conflict has drawn criticism from various quarters, including U.S. lawmakers who argue that the war lacks sufficient justification. Trump has faced backlash for his aggressive stance, with concerns about the war's impact on global oil prices and regional stability.
Despite the ongoing hostilities, diplomatic efforts continue, with some leaders in the region calling for de-escalation. However, the situation remains tense, with both sides engaging in retaliatory strikes and the U.S. considering further military actions.