Putin: I do not want to even discuss possibility of U.S. killing Iran's supreme leader

Putin: I do not want to even discuss possibility of U.S. killing Iran's supreme leader

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has reached a critical juncture, with President Trump's rhetoric and potential U.S. involvement raising concerns about further escalation. Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has issued stern warnings against any U.S. military intervention, while Trump has threatened Iran's leadership and hinted at possible U.S. strikes.

On June 18, Trump suggested that a U.S. strike on Iran could happen within the next week. He also rejected an offer by Russian President Vladimir Putin to mediate between Israel and Iran, instead urging Putin to focus on ending his country’s war with Ukraine. Meanwhile, Khamenei has rejected Trump's demand for unconditional surrender, stating that the Iranian nation will not surrender. This defiance comes amidst a sixth night of Israeli airstrikes and Iranian missile launches, which have caused civilians to flee their homes in both Tehran and Tel Aviv [1].

Trump's comments have sparked debate among Republicans and conservatives, with some questioning his approach to the conflict. Republican Senator Ted Cruz has called for regime change in Iran, while conservative media figure Tucker Carlson has grilled Cruz on his lack of knowledge about Iran's population and political dynamics. These exchanges highlight the divide among conservatives regarding U.S. military action in Iran [2].

The U.S. is also working to evacuate Americans from Israel, with the U.S. embassy in Jerusalem arranging flights and cruise ship departures. Iran, meanwhile, has imposed temporary restrictions on internet access to prevent the enemy from threatening citizens' lives and property [3].

The situation remains fluid, with both Israel and Iran continuing to exchange missiles. The U.S. has not yet made a formal decision on its involvement in the conflict, but the Pentagon is prepared to execute any orders that Trump might issue. The U.S. Senate is also seeking a classified briefing on the situation, with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer requesting an all-senators briefing [4].

As the conflict intensifies, investors and financial professionals should closely monitor the situation for potential impacts on global markets and geopolitical stability. The escalation of tensions between Israel and Iran, coupled with the potential U.S. involvement, could lead to increased volatility and uncertainty in the region and beyond.

References:
[1] https://www.npr.org/2025/06/18/nx-s1-5437782/iran-israel-conflict-trump
[2] https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/politics/2025/06/18/iran-israel-trump-us-live-updates/84257132007/
[3] https://www.reuters.com/article/us-iran-israel-idUSKBN2T610A
[4] https://www.reuters.com/article/us-iran-israel-idUSKBN2T610A