In a fiery online address, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian cautioned would-be peacemakers Friday, as the Israel-US-Iran clash intensifies. Iran favors tranquility, he stressed, but only on terms preserving its dignity—especially after last week’s heartbreaking loss of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
‘Some nations have launched mediation bids in our dispute with America and Israel,’ Pezeshkian posted on X. ‘We commit to peace here, without qualms about defending our sovereignty. Those who sparked this by underrating us need the real mediation.’
Reports confirm Iran’s renewed offensive with ballistic missiles, including the formidable Khorramshahr-4. Lebanon’s state media detailed an Israeli strike on a Sidon residential tower near Al-Siddiq Mosque, prompting immediate medical response amid unknown losses.
From Tampa’s CENTCOM base, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth previewed Operation Epic Fury’s expansion. Addressing press, he declared, ‘This is our fight; victory is ours.’ He outlined joint US-Israeli efforts to eradicate Tehran’s forces and missiles, already crippled by the campaign.
Praising Admiral Brad Cooper and 50,000 troops, Hegseth spotlighted sinkings of Iran’s navy, disabled launchers, and total aerial supremacy. ‘Day 6 dawns on eliminating Iran’s ability to threaten Americans,’ he said. Cooper revealed 200 deep strikes by bombers in 72 hours, hitting Tehran vicinities.
Neighboring Kuwait tallied 67 injured service members, its defenses neutralizing 212 missiles and 394 drones per ministry spokesman Saud Al-Atwan. Continuous monitoring with partners keeps the nation on high alert.
Pezeshkian’s ultimatum highlights a deepening crisis, where diplomatic overtures clash with military momentum.