★IRAN
Trump Considers U.S. Military Action in Iran
Trump concluded an 80-minute Situation Room session on Iran military options after three officials confirmed serious consideration of U.S. strikes against Fordow underground uranium facility. The U.S. maintains a defensive posture supporting Israeli missile interception but has avoided offensive participation. The President is weighing several options as he considers whether or not to get the U.S. more involved in Israel and Iran’s war.
Trump Says U.S. Won’t Strike Khamenei “For Now”
Trump posted Tuesday that the U.S. knows “exactly where the Supreme Leader is hiding” and called Khamenei “an easy target” but stated “we are not going to take him out, at least not for now.” Trump demanded Tehran’s “unconditional surrender” less than 24 hours after ordering 10 million residents to “immediately evacuate,” adding “our patience is wearing thin” over continued missile attacks on American soldiers and civilians. Prime Minister Netanyahu had told ABC News on Monday that Israel won’t rule out targeting Khamenei, stating such action would “end the conflict” rather than escalate it. Under Trump’s orders, Vice President Vance secured Republican senators’ backing for military intervention as the Pentagon positioned additional F-16, F-22, and F-35 fighter jets across Middle East bases. The Trump administration reportedly considers deploying bunker-buster bombs against Fordow nuclear facility requiring American B-2 stealth bombers that only Washington controls. Meanwhile, Iranian officials told Al Mashhad TV that Iran will not negotiate under fire.
Khamenei Delegates War Authority to Revolutionary Guards From Bunker
Khamenei transferred significant authority to the Revolutionary Guards Supreme Council while hiding in an underground bunker with family, according to opposition Iran International. Revolutionary Guards now control complete war management. Iran prepared succession plans with ten backup candidates for each leadership position to ensure command continuity if leaders are assassinated.
IAEA Confirms Israeli Strike Damaged Iran’s Natanz Nuclear Facility
The IAEA announced Tuesday it has evidence that Israel’s recent strike caused direct damage to the underground centrifuge halls at Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility. While no changes were reported at Fordow or Isfahan, Director Rafael Grossi warned of serious equipment damage from power loss and potential radiation risk. He urged restraint to preserve diplomatic efforts.
IDF Eliminates Iran’s Second Wartime Chief of Staff
IDF eliminated Ali Shadmani, Iran’s wartime Chief of Staff and closest military figure to Khamenei, marking the second Chief of Staff killed since war began. Shadmani was appointed days earlier after predecessor Gholam Ali Rashid’s death and had led both the IRGC and Iran’s army. Israeli strikes destroyed dozens of missile facilities, neutralizing over 200 ballistic missile launchers representing half of Iran’s arsenal. Over 20 senior Iranian military and IRGC commanders have been killed since war began.
Russia Says Iran Hasn’t Requested Military Help Against Israel
Russia said Iran has not requested military assistance against Israel, with Moscow indicating no plans to provide defensive support to Tehran. A Kremlin source told Bloomberg that no one can stop Netanyahu from continuing bombardment and Russia cannot mediate if regime change is Israel’s goal.
Iran Executes Spy, Arrests Twenty Eight Israeli Agents
Iran executed Esmail Fekri by hanging June 16 for transmitting classified intelligence to two Mossad officers, marking the fourth Israeli espionage execution in 2025. Security forces simultaneously arrested 28 Israeli-linked agents since airstrikes began, seizing over 200 kilograms of explosives, 23 drones, and guidance equipment. Operations seized over 200 kilograms of explosives, 23 drones, and guidance equipment targeting military sites. A senior Iranian diplomat confirmed Israeli penetration of “highest offices” including Revolutionary Guards counter-espionage units. Parliament approved emergency legislation increasing punishment for cooperation with hostile governments as Iran prioritizes finding security breaches over retaliation.
Hackers Destroy Iran Bank Data as Tehran Warns Critical Infrastructure
Predatory Sparrow hacktivist group claimed responsibility for a cyberattack on Iran’s IRGC-linked Bank Sepah, alleging destruction of all bank data and disrupting gas stations nationwide. Multiple branches with 1,800 locations globally closed Tuesday with customers unable to access accounts. The attack targeted the bank’s role financing missile and nuclear programs while circumventing U.S. sanctions imposed in 2019. Military-linked Kosar and Ansar bank cards also malfunctioned during widespread banking disruptions. Iranian presidency-affiliated security center AFTA subsequently issued warnings to government facilities about increased cyberattack risks during conflict escalation, reflecting growing concerns about electronic warfare capabilities targeting Iran’s critical infrastructure.
Iran Shuts Internet and Bans Devices Citing Israeli Covert Operations
Iran cut internet access by 80 percent nationwide Tuesday, with officials citing ongoing Israeli covert operations as justification. Tasnim news agency reported complete internet shutdown Tuesday night, with foreign access replaced by state-controlled domestic networks. Simultaneously, Iran’s cyber defense command banned officials and their security teams from using network-connected devices, aiming to protect sensitive data following Israeli assassinations of top Iranian figures.
Pakistan Calls for Muslim Unity Against Israel as Iran Seeks Global Support
Pakistani Defense Minister Khwaja Asif declared “complete solidarity” with Iran following Israeli strikes, stating Pakistan “stands by Iran in every way” and will “defend Iranian interests” in international forums. Asif told the National Assembly all Muslim countries must “fight united against Israel” or face targeting individually while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned Israeli attacks as violating the UN Charter. Pakistan maintains no diplomatic relations with Israel. Iran separately called for urgent global intervention to halt its escalating war with Israel, warning of intensified attacks after Israeli strikes killed Iran’s wartime chief of staff and disrupted missile launches. Analysts say Iran’s leadership fears prolonged conflict will weaken national security, drain resources, and hinder internal economic stability.
Iran Claims Advanced Missiles Hit Israeli Intelligence Centers
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed Tuesday it struck Israeli military intelligence headquarters (Aman) and Mossad operations centers using new missile technology that Israeli air defenses failed to detect or intercept. Defense Ministry spokesman Brigadier General Alireza Talaee Nik announced the weapon’s first operational use, claiming “accurate hits” on security installations despite heavy U.S.-assisted protection layers. Israeli media confirmed five missiles hit Tel Aviv metropolitan area, including the Herzliya intelligence hub and Glilot area housing Aman logistics operations. Israeli sources acknowledge missile breaches but attribute this to overwhelming numbers rather than detection failure, reporting 80-90% interception rates. Ten people injured with fires and property damage reported.
Europe Urges Iran to Resume Nuclear Talks, Avoid Escalation
In a rare joint call, European ministers urged Iran to rejoin U.S.-led nuclear talks and avoid further conflict with Israel. Iran responded that its priority remains confronting Israeli aggression following strikes on its nuclear sites. The E3—France, Germany, and the UK—warned of possible UN action if talks stall, as tensions rise during continued military exchanges.
Six Hundred Foreigners Flee Iran as Multiple Countries Evacuate Nationals
Over 600 people from 17 countries fled Iran into Azerbaijan since Israeli airstrikes began Friday, with Azerbaijan opening a humanitarian corridor at Astara crossing despite COVID border closures. India completed evacuation of 110 students from Tehran using Armenian border crossing as Israeli strikes intensified. Fleeing nationals include Americans, Russians, Germans, Chinese citing fuel shortages and long queues at gas stations following Trump’s evacuation warning.
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★ ISRAEL
Katz Warns IDF Will Hit “Very Significant” Targets in Tehran
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz rejected Iran negotiations Tuesday, announcing imminent strikes on “very significant targets” including strategic regime and infrastructure sites inside Tehran. Katz stated that the IDF will issue evacuation calls to Tehran residents stressing emphasis on locations like Fordow nuclear facility “will be addressed.” Military Intelligence chief told Unit 8200 they will “break ground in other arenas” following strikes on Iran’s military command.
IDF Strikes Underground Revolutionary Guards Missile Base
IDF struck Imam Ali missile base in Khorramabad, western Iran, containing surface-to-surface and cruise missiles in an underground facility. The base features eight tunnels and launch shafts carved into the mountain, located 1,265 kilometers from central Israel. The site houses Shahab-3 missiles with 1,300-kilometer range carrying 800-1,200 kilogram warheads.
Iran Cuts Palestinian Islamic Jihad Funding, Weakening Gaza Proxy
Palestinian Islamic Jihad faces severe financial collapse with salary delays exceeding 100 days and payments reduced to $150, as Iran’s war with Israel strains Tehran’s proxy funding capabilities. The crisis has forced PIJ operatives to flee Syria for Turkey and Lebanon, disrupting operations. Meanwhile, mediators report breakthrough progress in Gaza ceasefire talks with new flexibility from Israel and Hamas on hostage exchanges and Gaza’s future governance. U.S. and Gulf sources anticipate Israeli delegation deployment to Doha despite Iran tensions. The financial weakening of Iran’s key Gaza proxy could either accelerate ceasefire momentum or destabilize negotiations if Tehran compensates through alternative escalation measures.
Israeli Airstrikes Hit Multiple Tehran Neighborhoods Tuesday
Israeli strikes targeted Tehran districts including Narmak, Seyyed Khandan, and South Majidiyeh with successive explosions reported by residents. Iran launched retaliatory missiles from Shiraz toward Israeli targets. Tehran air defenses remain active with internet disruptions and fuel shortages affecting civilians.
Iranian Missile Hits Haifa Refinery Power Station, Kills Three
An Iranian ballistic missile struck Israel’s Bazan oil refinery in Haifa early Monday, destroying the facility’s power generation unit and killing three workers trapped by fire and collapsed debris. All refinery operations shut down after the attack severely damaged steam and electricity production capabilities. The Energy Ministry estimated a 10-day repair timeline while assuring continued national fuel supply. The strike marks Iran’s first successful attack on Israeli energy infrastructure during the current escalation. Bazan shares dropped 2.8 percent following the announcement. The facility processes 197,000 barrels daily and has faced long-standing closure demands due to environmental and security concerns in densely populated Haifa Bay.
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★ SYRIA
Israeli Forces Advance West of Quneitra, Block Roads After Home Demolitions
On Tuesday morning, Israeli forces advanced along the Al-Mantra Dam road in western Quneitra, closing all eastern access routes. The move followed the demolition of over 15 homes in Al-Hamidiyah, citing proximity to a recently established Israeli military post. triggering tension in the area during ongoing military escalation. Troops also blocked routes to villages like Al-Qataniyah and increased patrols, as daily raids and restrictions intensify in southern Syria.
Iranian Drones Shot Down Over Southern Syria During Escalating Strikes
Several Iranian drones fell over southern Syria on June 16, some crashing into civilian homes. Israeli missiles intercepted two near the Golan border in Quneitra, while others fell in Daraa’s Nawa and Khirbet Qais, causing property damage and a fire but no casualties. The incidents follow intensified Israeli-Iranian exchanges, with missiles and aircraft frequently crossing Syrian airspace.
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★TÜRKIYE
Erdogan: Türkiye Plans to Expand Missile Arsenal to Deterrent Level
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced plans to boost Türkiye’s medium- and long-range missile stockpile to a deterrent level in response to escalating regional tensions. Erdogan emphasized diplomacy over war and warned that Israel risks its future with continued aggression. He also highlighted Türkiye’s growing defense capabilities and its aim to remain insulated from regional instability.
Türkiye Braces for Economic Fallout as Iran-Israel War Escalates
Türkiye faces potential economic setbacks from the Israel-Iran conflict, especially in tourism, exports, and energy costs. Though the initial impact remains minimal, tour cancellations have begun. Analysts warn of rising oil prices and disrupted trade routes, straining Türkiye’s $50B annual energy bill. While some foresee gains in trade with Iran, others caution that mass Iranian migration could destabilize markets, rents, and public services.
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★ EGYPT
Egypt Seeks Urgent Fuel Alternatives After Israeli Gas Supply Halt
During the Israel-Iran conflict, Egypt faces a looming energy crisis after Israeli gas supplies were cut following the shutdown of major fields, including Leviathan. Cairo plans to import up to one million tons of fuel oil starting in August and has already suspended diesel supplies to heavy industries. With rising summer demand, Egypt’s energy import bill may hit $3 billion monthly, straining its economy and risking widespread blackouts.
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★ Disclaimer:
The Early Phoenix is a digest of various news sources compiled by the Early Phoenix team and edited by Rania Kisar. The items are curated, concise summaries of news items hyperlinked within each story. The items and summaries presented do not necessarily represent the views of the American Center for Levant Studies.
