Highlights from the latest news on the 39th day of the conflict:
Trump threatens to destroy Iran. During a press conference, the American president assured that he is ready to destroy the entire Iran “in a single night” if the ultimatum he set to Tehran expires without results on Tuesday at 8pm (Wednesday at 2am in France). According to him, the United States can destroy the country’s bridges and power plants “in four hours”. He believes that the Iranians are “ready to suffer for their freedom”.
Tehran rejects the threats. A representative of the Islamic Republic stated that President Trump’s “gross and arrogant rhetoric” has no effect on the continued offensive and overwhelming operations of the Iranian army. The Iranian army spokesperson promised that the country will continue to fight “as long as deemed appropriate by the political leaders”.
Tehran and Washington reject a ceasefire proposal. Iran rejected a ceasefire proposal with the United States and Israel mediated by Pakistan according to Irna, the government news agency (without providing a source). Mr. Trump described the initiative as a “very important step” but stated that it’s not enough for him to support it.
Vote on the Strait of Hormuz. The UN Security Council is set to vote on a resolution regarding the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, deviating from the initial goal of Gulf countries who wanted a clear mandate for a forced liberation. The vote is scheduled for 5pm French time, just a few hours before the expiration of the American president’s ultimatum.
Israeli strikes in Iran, shots towards Israel. Explosions were reported in Tehran and its outskirts by Iranian media. At the same time, the Israeli army reported that their air defenses are active to intercept missiles from Iran.
Iranian petrochemical site hit. Israel claimed to have carried out strikes on the largest petrochemical complex in southern Iran, a significant target that produces about half of the country’s petrochemical output. Tehran stated that the situation is “under control” but the extent of the damage is still being evaluated.
Missiles intercepted by Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense announced the interception of seven ballistic missiles, with debris falling around electrical infrastructure. An assessment of the damages is currently underway.
Houthis from Yemen claim a new attack on Israel. Houthi rebels from Yemen, in conjunction with Iran and Lebanese Hezbollah, claimed to have launched an attack targeting multiple vital military sites belonging to the Israeli enemy.
