Iran apologizes to neighbors for attacks, vows not to surrender
What's the story
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has apologized to neighboring countries for the attacks launched during the ongoing conflict with Israel and the United States. In a televised address, Pezeshkian said that Iran will not target its neighbors unless attacked first. "I apologise to the neighbouring countries. We have no intention of invading other countries," Pezeshkian said The interim leadership council of Tehran has approved this policy to prevent further escalation with regional states.
No surrender
Pezeshkian rejects Trump's 'unconditional surrender' demand
In a recent statement, US President Donald Trump intensified his rhetoric against Iran, insisting on Iran's "unconditional surrender." The Trump administration seeks to address concerns over Iran's nuclear program, regional influence, and support for various militant groups. Rejecting the demand, Pezeshkian said such expectations were unrealistic. "They will take their dreams of us surrendering unconditionally to the grave," he said.
Retaliatory strikes
Iran retaliates by hitting Gulf regions
Iran has been launching missiles in retaliation for the killing of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The strikes have hit several Gulf regions, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Videos from these areas show massive destruction. The United States and Israel had carried out coordinated airstrikes across Iran on February 28 as part of "Operation Epic Fury."
Key casualties
Khamenei was killed in US-Israel strikes
The US-Israel strikes targeted several Iranian cities, including Tehran. Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in the joint strikes while he was in his compound. His wife, Mansoureh Khojasteh Bagherzadeh, also succumbed to her injuries from the attack. Pezeshkian has since reiterated that Tehran does not seek conflict with neighboring states despite ongoing hostilities with Israel and the United States.