Israel gave America and Iran an ultimatum, then attacked Iran
Despite signaling that it was going to give the two nations more time, Israel attacked Iran hours later.
After America recalled its diplomats from Iraq, things have escalated immensely.
America evacuates its diplomats from Iraq because Israel is fully ready to attack Iran
In Baghdad, US embassy staff and military family members are evacuating from Iraq, American government sources said, according to the BBC and various outlets.
Hours ago, Israel issued an ultimatum to America and Iran. If there’s no deal by Sunday, Israel would attack Iran, according to the JMIC, a US/UK naval task force.
However, Israel’s government changed its mind on the same day. Israel has attacked Iran in a preemptive strike. Iran’s capital, Tehran, was struck, and nuclear facilities were targeted. An oil refinery in Tabriz was also struck.
The attack has been reportedly dubbed “Operation Rising Lion.” The Israel-Iran conflict is expected to last at least a few days, possibly weeks.
America confirmed the deaths of top Iranian leaders in the strikes. Reuters reported that Commander Hossein Salami, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), was killed. Iran's chief of staff, Mohammad Bagheri, was also killed. Several nuclear scientists were killed as well, according to Iran International.
Ali Shamkhani, a senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was critically injured in Israeli attacks. The Natanz Nuclear Facility has sustained major damage.
President Trump told Fox News chief anchor Bret Baier that he knew the strikes were coming beforehand. He said that America is ready to defend itself and Israel if Iran retaliates, but hopes Iran returns to the negotiating table.
Secretary of State Rubio stated that America is not involved in the attack against Iran. Israel claims that this attack was necessary for self-defense.
Many American politicians came out in support of the state of Israel.
Iranian media went on to relay the IRGC’s promise of a severe response.
"(IRGC) is fully prepared to deliver a firm and severe response to the Zionist enemy’s aggression," the statement read. "Necessary measures to counter such criminal acts ... have long been in place."
According to the Times of Israel and other outlets, over 100 drones were launched by Iran at Israel over the last few hours. The IDF is in the process of shooting them down. Iran will not participate in nuclear negotiations with America until further notice, according to The New York Times.
According to DD Geopolitics, early news suggests that over 800 Iranian projectiles have been launched toward Israel. The retaliatory attack reportedly consists of a mixture of cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and suicide drones.
Updated on 6/18/25
Trump may or may not join in on Israel’s attack on Iran, according to Reuters. During a White House lawn appearance, Trump offered mixed signals.
"I may do it, I may not do it, nobody knows what I'm going to do."
In response to Khamenei’s statement that Iran will not surrender, Trump said, “Good luck.”
He has approved attack plans against Iran, per Fox News.
The idea of America’s military getting involved between Israel and Iran is very unpopular, even with Republicans. This is according to an Economist/YouGov poll taken between June 13th and 16th.
Rep. Massie (R-KY) has introduced a bipartisan bill with Rep. Khanna (D-CA) to prevent Trump from going to war with Iran. The “Squad” has signed on to the Iran War Powers Resolution. The Senate has introduced its version.
Stay tuned for any updates to this ongoing story.
Follow The Free Maverick here, on 𝕏, and LinkedIn.