Middle East on Edge: U.S. Joins Israel in Strikes as Khamenei Vows ‘Punishment’ and Trump Floats Regime Change

By SCALE UB news team : 23/06/2025

News summary:

Tensions have surged as the U.S. launched precision strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites alongside Israel, prompting Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei to promise “punishment” and President Trump to hint at regime change. Iran retaliated with missile fire toward Israel, triggering sirens. Global leaders are urging de-escalation while oil markets wobble, and questions grow over the future of diplomacy. jpost.com+2theguardian.com+2thetimes.co.uk+2

Detail news:

1. U.S. Enters the Fray

On June 22, the U.S. joined Israel in striking Iran’s Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities under “Operation Midnight Hammer.” President Trump described the attack as targeting Iran’s nuclear capabilities—not an all-out war—while hinting at possible regime change via his “Make Iran Great Again” rhetoric. news.sky.com+5en.wikipedia.org+5hindustantimes.com+5

2. Iran’s Strong Retort

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei condemned the strikes as a “sionist crime,” posting a dramatic image on X. He vowed continued “punishment” against both Israel and its Western supporters. Iranian forces have launched multiple missile salvos at Israeli territory, with sirens blaring across the region.

3. Regional Reverberations

4. Diplomatic Ripples

Global powers—from Russia and China to the EU—have called for immediate de-escalation. Emergency UN Security Council meetings are underway. Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign minister met with Putin in Moscow, as debate swirls over whether regime change is on the table. theguardian.com+2theguardian.com+2thetimes.co.uk+2

5. Economic & Strategic Stakes

Oil prices have surged in response, reflecting fears of disruption in Middle East supply routes. Regional flights face cancellations, and energy markets remain volatile. Analysts predict a prolonged period of uncertainty without swift diplomatic breakthroughs. hindustantimes.com+15theguardian.com+15washingtonpost.com+15


Key Takeaways

  • Escalation Point: The U.S. formal entry marks a major shift from focused Israel-Iran exchanges to wider Western involvement.

  • Iran’s Warning: Khamenei’s “punishment” message signals sustained missile campaigns and possible maritime retaliation.

  • Global Alarm: With worldwide leaders urging restraint, diplomatic channels are urgently being mobilized.

  • Economic Fallout: Energy markets remain vulnerable as the Strait of Hormuz looms large, and disruptions ripple globally.

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