Video Excerpt: BBC News

WASHINGTON D.C. – Amidst a rapidly escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, Donald Trump on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, issued a series of highly provocative statements, demanding Iran’s “unconditional surrender” while asserting that the country’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is safe “for now.”

The remarks, delivered via a social media posting and subsequently to reporters, marked a significant escalation in Trump’s rhetoric regarding Tehran. “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding,” Trump wrote. “He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now.” He followed this chilling assertion with a direct and unambiguous demand: “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!”

Trump’s comments came as he cut short his participation in the Group of Seven (G7) summit in the Canadian Rockies to return to Washington for urgent national security discussions. The past five days have seen a dangerous exchange of missile strikes between Israel and Iran, resulting in casualties on both sides and intensifying fears of a wider regional conflagration.

The former president linked his stern warning to Iran’s recent actions, stating, “But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin.” He had also earlier touted “complete and total control of the skies over Iran,” attributing it to American-made equipment used by Israel.

The veiled threat against Khamenei, coupled with the demand for surrender, instantly ignited debate among analysts and observers. Critics questioned the implications of such direct language, particularly concerning a foreign head of state, while supporters viewed it as a strong stance against a perceived adversary.

Trump’s administration has consistently stated that preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remains a red line. As the conflict deepens, the international community watches closely to see how Tehran will respond to this latest and most direct challenge from the former U.S. leader, and what further actions might be considered in the volatile Middle East.