As the Israel-Iran conflict enters its sixth day, U.S. President Donald Trump has called for Iran’s unconditional surrender, warning that U.S. patience is wearing thin. In a series of social media posts on Tuesday, Trump adopted a more aggressive stance towards Iran, signaling a potential escalation of U.S. involvement in the Middle East.
According to reports, Trump spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by phone, discussing the ongoing conflict. The White House confirmed the conversation, emphasizing the strong alliance between the U.S. and Israel.
Mixed Messages from the White House
Trump’s public statements have fluctuated between military threats and diplomatic overtures, contributing to uncertainty surrounding the crisis. On Monday, he suggested the possibility of sending U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff or Vice President JD Vance to meet with Iranian officials, hinting at a diplomatic solution.
Meanwhile, the U.S. is deploying additional fighter aircraft to the Middle East and extending the deployment of other warplanes. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described these moves as defensive in nature, aimed at protecting U.S. interests and allies in the region.
Escalation of Hostilities
The conflict has intensified with both Israel and Iran exchanging missile strikes. Israeli military officials reported that approximately ten ballistic missiles were launched from Iran toward Israel early Wednesday morning, most of which were intercepted. Explosions were heard over Tel Aviv, causing alarm among residents.
In Iran, explosions were reported in Tehran and the city of Karaj, west of the capital. Iranian news outlets also reported that Iran’s cybersecurity command has banned officials from using communications devices and mobile phones amid concerns over cyber warfare.
Iranian media claimed that Israel has launched a “massive cyber war” against Iran’s digital infrastructure. In response, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced strikes on Israel’s Military Intelligence Directorate and the Mossad’s operational center, although Israel has not confirmed these attacks.
Civilian Casualties and Global Impact
The human toll of the conflict is mounting. Iranian officials have reported 224 deaths, mostly civilians, while Israel said 24 civilian casualties have occurred. Thousands of residents in both countries have been evacuated or have fled their homes due to the hostilities.
The escalating conflict has also impacted global oil markets. Strikes on key sites, including the world’s largest gas field, South Pars—shared by Iran and Qatar—have put markets on high alert, raising concerns over potential disruptions to energy supplies.
International Response
The international community is closely monitoring the situation. Calls for de-escalation and a peaceful resolution are growing as fears of a wider regional conflict intensify. The U.S.’s next moves remain uncertain, with the world watching to see whether diplomatic efforts or military actions will prevail.
