Iran vows response to US attacks; Trump says ‘we took bomb out of their hands’ | The Business Standard
Skip to main content
  • Latest
  • Epaper
  • Economy
    • Banking
    • Stocks
    • Industry
    • Analysis
    • Bazaar
    • RMG
    • Corporates
    • Aviation
  • Videos
    • TBS Today
    • TBS Stories
    • TBS World
    • News of the day
    • TBS Programs
    • Podcast
    • Editor's Pick
  • World+Biz
  • Features
    • Panorama
    • The Big Picture
    • Pursuit
    • Habitat
    • Thoughts
    • Splash
    • Mode
    • Tech
    • Explorer
    • Brands
    • In Focus
    • Book Review
    • Earth
    • Food
    • Luxury
    • Wheels
  • More
    • Sports
    • TBS Graduates
    • Bangladesh
    • Supplement
    • Infograph
    • Archive
    • Gallery
    • Long Read
    • Interviews
    • Offbeat
    • Magazine
    • Climate Change
    • Health
    • Cartoons
  • বাংলা
The Business Standard

Tuesday
June 24, 2025

Sign In
Subscribe
  • Latest
  • Epaper
  • Economy
    • Banking
    • Stocks
    • Industry
    • Analysis
    • Bazaar
    • RMG
    • Corporates
    • Aviation
  • Videos
    • TBS Today
    • TBS Stories
    • TBS World
    • News of the day
    • TBS Programs
    • Podcast
    • Editor's Pick
  • World+Biz
  • Features
    • Panorama
    • The Big Picture
    • Pursuit
    • Habitat
    • Thoughts
    • Splash
    • Mode
    • Tech
    • Explorer
    • Brands
    • In Focus
    • Book Review
    • Earth
    • Food
    • Luxury
    • Wheels
  • More
    • Sports
    • TBS Graduates
    • Bangladesh
    • Supplement
    • Infograph
    • Archive
    • Gallery
    • Long Read
    • Interviews
    • Offbeat
    • Magazine
    • Climate Change
    • Health
    • Cartoons
  • বাংলা
TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025
Iran vows response to US attacks; Trump says ‘we took bomb out of their hands’

Middle East

TBS Report
22 June, 2025, 07:20 am
Last modified: 23 June, 2025, 01:02 am

Related News

  • What comes next as the US enters the conflict between Israel and Iran
  • Strikes on Iran mark Trump's biggest, and riskiest, foreign policy gamble
  • UN chief 'alarmed' by US strikes on Iran, EU urges return to talks
  • Trump says US forces bombed 3 Iran nuclear sites; claims 'Fordow is gone' and 'now is the time for peace'

Iran vows response to US attacks; Trump says ‘we took bomb out of their hands’

The US, under the Trump administration, has entered the war between Israel and Iran with a surprise overnight bombing of three Iranian nuclear facilities. Read our live updates

TBS Report
22 June, 2025, 07:20 am
Last modified: 23 June, 2025, 01:02 am
US President Donald Trump (L) and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian (R). Photo: Collected
US President Donald Trump (L) and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian (R). Photo: Collected

Highlights:

  • President Donald Trump says US forces have conducted "very successful" strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. He also warns against any retaliation, saying: "Remember, there are many targets left." 
  • Iranian Foreign Minister says the "outrageous" US attacks on Iran's "peaceful nuclear installations" will have "everlasting consequences". His comments come as an Iranian missile attack on central and northern Israel wounds at least 23.
  • International nuclear energy watchdog says there have been no reports of increased off-site radiation levels following the US strikes on the Iranian sites.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praises Trump's "bold decision" and says Israel and the US acted in "full coordination".
  • Iran says more than 400 people have been killed and at least 3,056 others wounded since Israel launched its attack on June 13. In Israel, at least 24 people have been killed in Iranian strikes.

00:40am

Iran vows response to US attacks; Trump says 'we took bomb out of their hands'

The Business Standard Google News Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel

The US "must receive a response for their aggression", Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said after a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron yesterday (22 June).

"Iran has been subjected to military aggression and has defended ourselves steadfastly," Pezeshkian said in a statement released on the Iranian presidency's website.

Pezeshkian added: "Our nation will never surrender to bullying and oppression, and it is natural that it will respond appropriately to aggression."

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump posted a lengthy message on Truth Social, targeting Republican Congressman Thomas Massie for criticising the US strikes on Iran as unconstitutional.

"We had a spectacular military success yesterday, taking the 'bomb' right out of their hands (and they would use it if they could!) but, as usual, and despite all of the praise and accolades received, this 'lightweight' Congressman is against what was so brilliantly achieved last night in Iran," Trump wrote.

10:35pm

Yemen says it is entering the war following US strikes on Iran

Brigadier General Yahya Saree, spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces, made the announcement via a statement posted on his personal social media account: "Yemen is officially entering the war (against the United States and Israel). Keep your ships away from our territorial waters."

The statement follows the release of an official military statement from the Yemeni Armed Forces on Saturday, which condemned Israeli attacks on Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and other Arab and Islamic countries, warning that the Zionist regime is seeking to destabilize the entire region with full US backing, reports Tehran Times.


9:55pm

Iran moves to block Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Parliament has approved the closing of the Strait of Hormuz, though the final decision will be taken by the Supreme National Security Council, Iran's Press TV reported.

Iran parliament orders closure of Strait of Hormuz

The strait is a key passage through which 20% of global oil and gas demand flows. Major oil producers, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, rely on the waterway to access the open sea.

The closure of the shipping lane would be expected to disrupt global oil supply, causing a sharp spike in prices, and could temporarily restrict the ability of US warships to exit the Persian Gulf.


9:35pm

US threatens Iran against retaliation

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a threat against Iran, saying a retaliation to the US strikes on nuclear sites would be "the worst mistake they've ever made", reports Al Jazeera.

"Regime change is certainly not the goal of what we're working on here", Rubio, who also serves as national security adviser, claimed in an interview, adding that the US was still "prepared to talk" to Tehran just hours after bombing it.


9:05pm

UAE president holds phone calls with Qatar emir, Kuwait emir, Saudi Arabia crown prince to discuss regional developments

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held telephone calls with Sheikh Mishal Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah, Emir of the State of Kuwait; Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar; and Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The calls focused on the latest developments in the Middle East and the serious implications of recent attacks on Iran for regional peace and security, reports Gulf News.

These discussions are part of ongoing consultations led by the UAE president to promote de-escalation and support efforts to restore stability and security across the region.

During the calls, all sides stressed that the current tensions could have grave repercussions both regionally and globally. They urged all parties to act with wisdom, prioritise dialogue and peaceful solutions, exercise maximum restraint, and avoid further escalation.

The leaders also reaffirmed their countries' support for all diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving de-escalation.


8:20pm

Israel's army says four Iranian regions targeted

An Israeli army spokesman said Israeli jets carried out dozens of strikes on Iran today, targeting military sites in Isfahan, Bushehr, Ahvaz and Yazd, reports Al Jazeera.

He claimed the strike in Yazd hit a site where Khorramshahr ballistic missiles were being stored, while strikes in Isfahan, Bushehr and Ahvaz targeted missile launch platforms, sites where air defence batteries were being manufactured and a drone warehouse.

Some of the strikes killed Iranian military personnel who were detected operating at launch platforms, the army said.


7:35pm

Saudi Arabia says 'no radioactive effects' detected in Gulf after US strikes on Iran

Saudi Arabia's Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Commission said Sunday that "no radioactive effects were detected" in the Kingdom and the Gulf region as a result of the US military targeting of Iran's nuclear facilities, reports Arab News.

"No radioactive effects were detected on the environment of the Kingdom and the Arab Gulf states as a result of the American military targeting of Iran's nuclear facilities," the commission wrote on its official account on X.

Kuwait's National Guard also said that "radiation levels in Kuwait's airspace and waters are stable and the situation is normal" according to a statement on KUNA News Agency.

The Egyptian Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority confirmed on Sunday that the country is far from any direct impact resulting from targeting uranium enrichment and conversion facilities in Iran.

Qatar's Environment and Climate Change ministry also said it has not detected any abnormal radiation levels in the country's airspace or territorial waters.


6:40pm

US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities had 'desired effect', says Hegseth

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth says the three nuclear sites targeted by the US in Iran were "severely damaged" by bunker-buster bombs dropped overnight, reports BBC.

US strikes against Iran not aimed at regime change, Pentagon chief says

The damage assessment is ongoing, but the initial assessment is that "all of our precision munitions struck where we wanted them to strike and had the desired effect", Hegseth said.

He also said the US believes it has destroyed capabilities in Fordo, which was their main target.

Photo: Phil Stewart/REUTERS
Photo: Phil Stewart/REUTERS

"This mission was not and has not been about regime change," Hegseth added.

"The president has authorised a precision operation to neutralise the threats to our national interests posed by the Iranian nuclear programme and the collective self defence of our troops and our ally, Israel."


6:10pm

Pezeshkian says US behind Israel's hostile actions

Pezeshkian accused the US of being the "main cause" of Israel's hostile actions against Iran, reports Al Jazeera citing translated comments published on IRNA news agency.

"Although they initially tried to conceal their role, after the decisive and deterrent response of our country's armed forces and the observation of the Zionist regime's [Israel's] obvious inability, they inevitably came to the fore," he said, referring to the US.

According to IRNA, Pezeshkian said despite the losses suffered by the country, it was now time to set aside differences and "activate the great capacities of the people".

Pezeshkian affirmed that the Iranian nation has repeatedly shown that they will not spare any effort in protecting the water and soil of their land, IRNA reported.


5:50pm

Arab nations react after US bombs nuclear sites in Iran

Arab nations have been quick to respond, here's a breakdown of what they have said, as reported by the BBC.

Oman, which was mediating nuclear talks between Washington and Tehran, strongly condemned US strikes on nuclear sites in Iran.

The Gulf sultanate "expresses deep concern, denunciation and condemnation of the escalation resulting from the direct air strikes launched by the United States".

Saudi Arabia, which has strong security ties with the US and is one of its closest regional allies, said that it condemned "the violation of Iran's sovereignty and stresses the need for restraint", calling on the international community "to redouble efforts in these extremely sensitive circumstances to reach a political solution".

Qatar's foreign ministry warned that the current "dangerous tensions will lead to disastrous repercussions at the regional and international levels." It said that it "hopes that all parties will exercise wisdom and restraint at this time."

Egypt warned of "the dangers of the region sliding into further chaos and tension," stressing that "political solutions and diplomatic negotiations, not a military solution, are the only way out of the crisis".

Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said that "the bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities raises the level of fear of an escalation of tensions that would threaten security and stability in more than one region and country".


5:40pm

'Lots of destruction': BBC reports from site of Iranian missile attack in Tel Aviv

As Iran launched a wave of missile attacks in Israel this morning, the BBC has been at the scene and seen buildings damaged after a direct hit.

"The fear here is that, if this war continues, more attacks like this are likely to happen," reports BBC's Middle East correspondent Hugo Bachega from the site.


5:25pm

Russia strongly condemns US attacks, foreign ministry says

Russia's foreign ministry said Russia strongly condemned US attacks on Iran's nuclear sites, reports Reuters.

"The irresponsible decision to subject the territory of a sovereign state to missile and bomb attacks, whatever the arguments it may be presented with, flagrantly violates international law, the Charter of the United Nations and the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council," the ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

"We call for an end to aggression and for increased efforts to create conditions for returning the situation to a political and diplomatic track," it said.


5:05pm

Turkey says US strikes raise risk of wider conflict and instability

US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities have raised the risk of the regional conflict spreading globally, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Sunday, reports Reuters.

It added that Ankara was deeply concerned about possible repercussions following the attacks.

In a statement, the ministry said that a spread of the conflict into a wider global war must not be allowed, calling on all parties to act with responsibility and end attacks immediately.

It said only negotiations could resolve the nuclear dispute between Tehran and Washington.


4:35pm

Saudi Arabia on high security alert after US strikes, sources say

Saudi Arabia, Iran's regional rival, is on a high security alert following strikes by the US on Iran, two sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Sunday.

The Saudi government's media communication office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.


4:15pm

Iran's foreign minister says US responsible for consequences of its actions

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Iran strongly condemned US attacks as a "violation of international law", reports Reuters.

"The US administration holds sole and full responsibility for the consequences of its actions, including the Islamic Republic of Iran's right to self-defense," he told reporters in Istanbul.

"Of course, the door for diplomacy should always be kept open. But this is not the case right now. My country has been under attack, under aggression, and we have to respond based on our legitimate right of self-defense."


3:09pm

Germany's Merz urges Iran to hold talks with US and Israel

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Iran to enter immediate talks with the United States and Israel to find a diplomatic solution to the current conflict, a government spokesperson said on Sunday.

The spokesperson said Merz would "coordinate closely" with his EU and US partners on further steps in the course of the day.


2:25pm

Iran demands IAEA investigate US strikes on nuclear sites

Iran is calling for an investigation into the US strikes on its nuclear facilities, reports Al Jazeera.

That's according to a letter from the country's nuclear chief Mohammad Eslami to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) head Rafael Grossi, Iran's SNN news network reported.

Eslami urged Grossi to condemn the US action and take appropriate measures. He criticised Grossi for his "inaction and complicity", adding Iran will pursue "appropriate legal measures".

"This letter expresses its protest against the gross violation of international laws and regulations, especially the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty [NPT]," it said.

Earlier, Grossi said he's calling an emergency meeting of the IAEA's 35-nation board of governors following the US air strikes.


2:05pm

UK says it was not involved in Iran attacks

The UK has not been involved in the US attacks on Iran, Britain's business and trade minister Jonathan Reynolds said.

The US made no request to the UK to support the action, including use of the Britain's Diego Garcia base in the Indian Ocean, Reynolds said.

He added that the UK government was informed of the attacks in advance.

Reynolds told Sky News that Prime Minister Keir Starmer would spend the morning talking to allies.


1:45pm

Iran launches missile attack on Israel, says all options open after US strikes

Israel faced a missile attack on Sunday as Iran said it reserved all options to defend itself after unprecedented US strikes that President Donald Trump said had "obliterated" its key nuclear facilities.

Hours after Trump dramatically escalated Middle East tensions by sending B-2 bombers to Iran, the Israeli military warned people to seek cover from a barrage that appeared heavier than the Iranian salvoes fired in the past few days.

"The events this morning are outrageous and will have everlasting consequences," said Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas, calling the US strikes a "grave violation" of the UN charter, international law and the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

"Iran reserves all options to defend its sovereignty, interest, and people," Araqchi posted on X.

There are indications that Iran is now deploying one of their most advanced missiles, the Kheybar-Shekan, as part of its retaliatory measures, as Israeli strikes continue to target Iranian nuclear facilities, military sites and residential buildings.

At least 430 people have been killed and 3,500 injured in Iran since Israel began its attacks, Iranian state-run Nour News said, citing the health ministry.

In Israel, 24 civilians have been killed and 1,272 people injured, according to local authorities.


1:20pm

Blast in Israel's Haifa may have been caused by 'interceptor failure'

The Israeli military has released a statement on an explosion that took place in the northern city of Haifa earlier this morning, despite no air raid warnings sounding there.

"During the launches carried out from Iran this morning towards the territory of the State of Israel, no alert was activated in the city of Haifa. Initial investigation indicates that a fall was detected in the city area, and the possibility of an interceptor failure is being examined," it said in a post on X.

"This is not a malfunction in the warning system and an advanced warning was issued to the area. The incident is being investigated," it added.

The crash left three people injured, according to the Times of Israel.


1:15pm

Injury toll in Israel rises

At least 20 people in Israel have been wounded in Iran's latest missile barrage, the Arutz Sheva outlet has reported, citing the country's emergency services.

In total, the ongoing conflict with Iran has forced over 10,000 people in Israel to evacuate their homes, according to the outlet. Over 32,000 people have requested government compensation for damage to their homes or property, it added.


1:10pm

UK's Starmer says US strikes 'alleviate' Iran nuclear threat

The British prime minister has spoken out in favour of the US's military action against Iran, saying the attacks "alleviate" the "threat" posed by Tehran's nuclear programme.

"Iran can never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon," he said in a post on X.

"The situation in the Middle East remains volatile and stability in the region is a priority. We call on Iran to return to the negotiating table and reach a diplomatic solution to end this crisis," he added.

For its part, Iran has vehemently denied developing a nuclear weapon and says its atomic programme is for peaceful purposes. The UN's atomic agency also says it has found no evidence that Iran is building a nuclear weapon.


12:40pm

Iran vows to resist US attacks 'with all its might'

Iran's foreign ministry has issued a statement slamming the US's latest strikes on its nuclear facilities as a "gross and unprecedented violation" of international law and saying it has the right to resist such "aggression", reports Al Jazeera.

"The world must not forget that it was the United States that, in the midst of a diplomatic process, betrayed diplomacy" by supporting Israel's "aggressive action" and is now waging "a dangerous war against Iran," the ministry said in a statement carried by the semi-official Tasnim news agency.

The ministry said it has become clear that the US "adheres to no rules or ethics, and in order to advance the aims of a genocidal and occupying regime, spares no lawlessness or crime".

"The Islamic Republic of Iran considers it its right to stand with all its might against US military aggression and the crimes committed by this rogue regime, and to defend the security and national interests of Iran," it added.


12:33pm

Iran's foreign ministry says US has begun a "dangerous war against Iran"

Iran's foreign ministry says the US has begun a "dangerous war against Iran" by striking its nuclear facilities on Sunday, according to a statement shared by Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency, says CNN.

"The world must not forget that it was the United States that, in the midst of a diplomatic process, betrayed diplomacy," the foreign ministry statement said. Describing Israel as "genocidal and lawless," the statement accused the US of launching "a dangerous war against Iran."

It said the attacks were a violation of the UN charter and international law, and that the US government "bears full responsibility for the grave consequences and dire repercussions of this heinous crime."

The ministry warned that it was Iran's "legitimate right to fully and resolutely resist the US military aggression and the crimes committed by this rogue regime and to defend Iran's national security and interests by all necessary means."

It urged the UN and its various bodies, including its nuclear watchdog the International Atomic Energy Agency, to "urgently address this flagrant and criminal act of illegality." It called on the UN Security Council to hold an emergency session to condemn the strikes.


12:25pm

IRGC says it targeted Israeli airport, bases

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has said Iran's most recent missile strikes targeted Israel's Ben Gurion International Airport, along with research facilities and "support bases and various layers of control and command centres", according to the Tasnim news agency.

The statement said the strike included the use of both long-range liquid and solid-fuel missiles.


12:22pm

Recent Iranian missile barrage targeted Ben Gurion Airport: Iranian media

The Iranian semi-official media agency Tasnim has reported that Iran's most recent missile strikes targeted Israel's Ben Gurion International Airport, along with research facilities and "support bases and various layers of control and command centres".

The agency reported that the strike included the use of both long-range liquid and solid-fuel missiles.


12:20pm

Democratic legislator says Iran posed no imminent threat to the US

US Senator Chris Murphy has joined the chorus of criticism over Trump's decision to attack Iran.

"I was briefed on the intelligence last week. Iran posed no imminent threat of attack to the United States," Murphy said in a social media post. "Iran was not close to building a deliverable nuclear weapon. The negotiations Israel scuttled with their strikes held the potential for success."

Other Democratic legislators, too, have questioned the legality of the attacks on Iran, noting that while presidents have the power to respond to imminent threats, Trump is yet to explain what, if any, immediate danger Iran poses to the US.


12:04pm

Israel begins new wave of attacks in western Iran - Israeli military

The Israeli military says that its air force has just begun a new wave of attacks against "military targets" in western Iran.

It comes after the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a warning in the last hour that it had identified missiles being launched from Iran toward Israeli territory, says the BBC.

The IDF adds that it has also carried out strikes against missiles launchers in Iranian territory.


12:00pm

Convicted Mossad spy executed in Iran: Report

A man convicted of spying for Israel has been executed, the Iranian judicial news outlet Mizan Online reports.

"Majid Mosayebi … was hanged this morning after going through the full process of criminal procedure and after his sentence was confirmed by the Supreme Court," Mizan said.

Mosayebi allegedly sought to provide "sensitive information" to Israel's Mossad intelligence agency, it added.

Caught in a decades-long shadow war with Israel, Iran has executed numerous individuals over their alleged links to Mossad, particularly those accused of sabotage and assassination efforts aimed at undermining its nuclear programme.


11:50am

Iran again reassures public over radiation fears

Reza Kardan, the deputy director of the Atomic Energy Organization and head of the National Nuclear Safety System Center in Iran, says "no radiation contamination or nuclear radiation has been observed outside" the sites and facilities targeted by US airstrikes.

"Preliminary plans had been made and measures had been taken to protect the safety and health of the dear people of the country, and despite the criminal actions this morning in attacking nuclear facilities, due to the previously planned measures and the measures taken, no radiation contamination or nuclear radiation has been observed outside these sites and facilities," Kardan said, according to IRNA news agency.

"People can continue their normal lives in the areas around these sites without any worries," he added.


11:35am

At least 11 wounded in Israel after latest Iranian attack

Eleven people in Israel have been hurt from Iran's missile attack and are receiving medical treatment.

One of the wounded sustained shrapnel wounds while 10 others are "lightly hurt", reports The Times of Israel, citing Israel's Magen David Adom national emergency service.


11:20am

Airlines largely avoid Middle Eastern airspace after US strikes on Iran

Carriers have continued to steer clear of significant areas of the Middle East today following the US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, according to the flight tracking website FlightRadar24.

"Following US attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, commercial traffic in the region is operating as it has since new airspace restrictions were put into place last week," it said on social media.

Its website showed airlines were not flying in the airspace over Iran, Iraq, Syria and Israel. They have chosen other routings such as north via the Caspian Sea or south via Egypt and Saudi Arabia, even if it results in higher fuel and crew costs and longer flight times.

Air traffic was already diverting around the region's airspace due to recent missile exchanges.


09:44am

Fordow has not been seriously damaged, Iranian lawmaker says

The Fars news agency quoted Iranian lawmaker Mohammad Manan Raisi, who said most of what was damaged at the Fordow nuclear facility was "only on the ground, which can be restored." 

Raisi is a lawmaker for Qom, near where Fordow is located.

His remarks contradict Trump's statement that the nuclear enrichment facilities were "completely and totally obliterated."


9:17am

Where are Iran's nuclear sites?

The US has struck Iran's Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, Trump said.

"Iran's key nuclear enrichment facilities have been completely and totally obliterated," he said.

The attacks follow Israel's earlier attacks.

Here's where the facilities are:


09:01am

Hamas condemns 'dangerous' US aggression

Hamas condemned what it described as dangerous US aggression against Iran in a statement.

"This brutal aggression is a dangerous escalation, a blind obedience to the agendas of the rogue Zionist occupation, a flagrant violation of international law, and a direct threat to international peace and security," it said.


8:57am

White House did not brief Congress leaders before strike - source

The White House did not brief the "Gang of Eight" before the strike, a source familiar with the issue told Reuters.

The group is comprised of eight leaders in Congress who are briefed on most classified US intelligence matters.

It includes Republicans Rick Crawford, Tom Cotton, Mike Johnson and John Thune, and Democrats Jim Himes, Mark Warner, Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer.


8:50am

Trump again promises 'far greater' attacks if Iran retaliates

The US president says that any retaliation from Iran will be met with a strong response.

"ANY RETALIATION BY IRAN AGAINST THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA WILL BE MET WITH FORCE FAR GREATER THAN WHAT WAS WITNESSED TONIGHT," Trump said on his social media website, Truth Social.


8:35am

'The American people do not want another forever war'

We have more reaction from Democratic legislators on the US attacks on Iran.

Rashida Tlaib, a Palestinian-American congresswoman, says Trump's ordering of strikes on Iran without the approval of lawmakers is a "blatant violation" of the US Constitution.

"The American people do not want another forever war. We have seen where decades of endless war in the Middle East gets us—all based on the lie of 'weapons of mass destruction.' We are not falling for it again," she said in a statement.

"Instead of listening to the American people, Trump is listening to War Criminal Netanyahu, who lied about Iraq and is lying once again about Iran. Congress must act immediately to exert its war powers and stop this unconstitutional act of war."


8:30am

Houthis say US 'must bear the consequences'

Hezam al-Asad, a member of the Yemeni group's political bureau, has issued a brief warning to the US in a social media post.

"Washington must bear the consequences," he said.


8:20am

UN chief expresses grave alarm at US attacks on Iran

Antonio Guterres is describing the US attacks on Iran as a "dangerous escalation", warning that the conflict in the Middle East could quickly get "out of control".

"I am gravely alarmed by the use of force by the United States against Iran today. This is a dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge – and a direct threat to international peace and security," he said in a social media post.

"There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of control – with catastrophic consequences for civilians, the region, and the world. I call on Member States to de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under the UN Charter and other rules of international law. At this perilous hour, it is critical to avoid a spiral of chaos. There is no military solution. The only path forward is diplomacy. The only hope is peace."

I am gravely alarmed by the use of force by the United States against Iran today. This is a dangerous escalation in a region already on the edge – and a direct threat to international peace and security.

There is a growing risk that this conflict could rapidly get out of…

— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) June 22, 2025

8:16am

Here's what Trump said

The US president's brief address lasted about three minutes.

Here are the key takeaways:

  • Trump described the attacks as a "spectacular military success", claiming that Iran's nuclear facilities have been "completely and totally obliterated".
  • He said that Iran "must now make peace. If they do not, future attacks will be far greater and a lot easier."
  • He added there are "many targets left… if peace does not come quickly, we will go after those other targets with precision, speed and skill".
  • "This cannot continue," Trump said. "There will be either peace or there will be tragedy for Iran, far greater than we have witnessed over the last eight days."
  • Israel loomed large, with Trump thanking and congratulating Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He said that the US and Israel "worked as a team" and have "gone a long way to erasing this horrible threat to Israel".
  • Despite Trump promising to avoid US military intervention abroad, he framed the attack as in line with the assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani during his first term.
  • Trump said the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, would hold a news conference at 8am local time on Sunday (12:00 GMT).

8:09am

Trump issues more threats to Iran

"There will be either peace, or there will be tragedy for Iran far greater than we have witnessed over the last eight days," Trump said.

"Remember, there are many targets left. Tonight's was the most difficult of them all, by far, and perhaps the most lethal, but if peace does not come quickly, we will go after those other targets with precision, speed and skill."


8:06am

Trump thanks Netanyahu

The US president says he and the Israeli prime minister worked as a team.

"I want to thank and congratulate Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu," he said.

"We worked as a team, like perhaps no team has ever worked before, and we've gone a long way to erasing this horrible threat to Israel. I want to thank the Israeli military for the wonderful job they've done."


8:05am

Trump says Iran strikes were a 'spectacular military success'

The US president has said the objective of the recent attacks was to stop Iran's "nuclear enrichment capacity and put a stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world's number one state sponsor of terror".

"Tonight, I can report to the world that the strikes were a spectacular military success," he said.


8:00am

Iran's atomic agency condemns attacks on Fordow, Natanz, Isfahan

The Iranian Atomic Energy Organization says the nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan were "attacked by enemies of [Iran] in a barbaric act that violated international law, especially the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty".

It said the attacks are taking place amid "indifference and even the complicity" of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

It added" "The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran assures the great Iranian nation that despite the evil conspiracies of its enemies, with the efforts of thousands of its revolutionary and motivated scientists and experts, it will not allow the development path of this national industry, which is the result of the blood of nuclear martyrs, to be stopped."


7:34am

Bernie Sanders slams Trump's strikes on Iran as 'grossly unconstitutional'

An adviser for the leftist senator has shared footage of him informing a crowd at an event in the city of Tulsa of the US attacks on Iran.

The crowd yells in anger and chants, "No more war".

"I agree. And I want to tell you something: not only is this news that I've just heard alarming, that all of you have just heard, but it is so grossly unconstitutional," Sanders says.

"All of you know that the only entity that can take this country to war is the US Congress. The president does not have the right."

Here is the crowd reaction when Bernie announces Trump's illegal attack on Iran at his rally in Tulsa pic.twitter.com/Dn6YNNbAEE— Jeremy Slevin (@jeremyslevin) June 22, 2025


7:30am

Israel in 'full coordination' with US during attack on Iran: Report

Israeli public broadcaster Kan is citing an anonymous Israeli official as saying that Israel was "in full coordination with the US" during its attacks on Iran.


7:25am

Iranian officials confirm attacks on Fordow, Isfahan and Natanz nuclear facilities

Regional officials in Iran have confirmed the Isfahan, Natanz and Fordow nuclear facilities have been attacked, according to Iranian state media reports.

"A few hours ago, following activation of Qom air defense systems and identification of hostile targets, a part of the area of Fordow nuclear site, was attacked by enemy air forces", a spokesperson for the Qom region's crisis management center said, according to the both the state-affiliated Fars and IRNA news agencies.
The Fordow facility is buried deep in the mountains in northern Iran, and houses advanced centrifuges used to enrich uranium up to high grades of purity. It was believed only US 'bunker-buster' bombs would be able to damage the facility, due to its depth.

The Deputy Security Governor of Isfahan confirmed the Isfahan and Natanz facilities in central Iran were also attacked, says CNN.

"We witnessed intrusions near the nuclear facilities in Isfahan and Natanz," he said, adding that air defenses had been activated to "confront hostile targets" but "several explosions were heard," the news agencies quoted the governor as saying.

The facilities had been previously evacuated, according to Iranian media.


7:05am

'This is not Constitutional': Republican legislator

Thomas Massie, who has been leading a legislative effort to curb Trump's ability to attack Iran without the approval of Congress, says the strikes violate the US Constitution, which gives lawmakers the authority over war decisions.

This is not Constitutional. https://t.co/EU3fS5jcwb— Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) June 21, 2025


7:00am

US legislator says Trump struck Iran without Congress authorisation

Ro Khanna from the Democratic Party says the US Congress must immediately convene to vote on a bill that would affirm the exclusive right of Congress to declare war.

"Trump struck Iran without any authorization of Congress," he said in a social media post.

"We need to immediately return to DC and vote on Representative Thomas Massie and my War Powers Resolution to prevent America from being dragged into another endless Middle East war."


6:53am

No radioactive material at the targeted sites: Iranian state media

The IRNA news agency quotes an official with the country's public broadcaster as saying: "There are no materials in these three nuclear sites that cause radiation."

The comment suggests that Iranian authorities may have removed enriched uranium from the facilities before they were bombed.


6:46am

Ali Khamenei reiterates previous warning to US

The Iranian supreme leader's Telegram account has re-shared televised comments by Khamenei from Wednesday, in which he said that the US would be entering the Iran-Israel conflict "to its own detriment".

"The damage it will suffer will be far greater than any harm Iran will encounter," Khamenei says in the video.


6:45am

'Too soon to tell' whether this will be a one-off strike

Bill Courtney, a senior fellow at the US-based think tank the RAND Corporation, says that it remains to be seen whether these US strikes will be followed by further attacks on Iran.

"It's too soon to tell. Partly, it will depend on whether Fordow was fully penetrated. Each B-2 bomber flying from Diego Garcia [a joint US-UK military base in the Indian Ocean] could carry two of these 30,000-pound [13,600kg] massive ordnance penetrators," he told Al Jazeera.

"Fordow would have required more than one or two, probably, to be fully destroyed. So we'll have to see what is the battle damage assessment from this strike on Fordow, and that could have something to do with whether the US continues a bombing effort."

6:40am

US Senator Graham says bombing was 'the right call'

United States Senator Lindsey Graham has taken to social media to praise Trump's decision to bomb three Iranian nuclear facilities.

"Good. This was the right call. The regime deserves it," Graham posted on X. "To my fellow citizens: We have the best Air Force in the world. It makes me so proud."

"Fly, Fight, Win."


6:32am

Ex-Israeli defence minister praises US strikes

Yoav Gallant calls the strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities a "bold decision" by the US president.

"The world is now a safer place," Gallant, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for suspected war crimes in Gaza, said in a social media post.


6:27am

Houthi official says US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities is 'beginning' of war

Mohamed al-Farah, a member of the Yemeni group's political bureau, says it is clear that Trump wants the hostilities to be quick and for the war to end.

However, "destroying a nuclear facility here and there is not the end of the war, but it's the beginning", al-Farah said in a statement.

"The time of hit and run is gone."

Hours earlier, the Houthis threatened to attack US ships in the Red Sea if Trump joined Israel in attacking Iran.


6:25am

Trump's strikes risk 'bringing US into endless and deadly war'

In one of the first responses to the attack by a Democratic member of Congress, Sara Jacobs says on X: "Trump's strikes against Iran are not only unconstitutional, but an escalation that risks bringing the U.S. into another endless and deadly war."


6:20am

Trump to deliver speech after strikes on Iran

The US president says he will address the nation at 10pm local time in Washington, DC (02:00 GMT), reports Al Jazeera.

Trump reiterated in a social media post that "IRAN MUST NOW AGREE TO END THIS WAR".


6:20am

Trump says 'TIME FOR PEACE', but Iran has promised to respond

The US president suggested in his announcement of the strikes that Iran should stand down to end the hostilities after its nuclear sites were attacked.

But Iranian officials have been pledging a harsh retaliation against any US attack over the past few weeks.

Threats included strikes against US bases and interests in the region, and closing the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 percent of the world's oil flows.


6:15am

'Moment of uncertainty' for world as US joins Israel's attacks on Iran

Trump's announcement shows the world that the United States has officially joined a new, dangerous phase of this war.

It's notable that Trump, just a few days ago, had given a time window of two weeks for Iran to come back to the negotiating table for a diplomatic solution.

Well, obviously, only a few days have passed.

And then today, we saw that scrambling of US military assets, and we are seeing that Trump has indeed issued this strike. He says that it was successful and that now is the time for peace. Certainly, that has yet to be proven to be true.

Everything depends now on how Iran will respond.

There have been many people concerned that such an action as has just been taken by the US military would do the very opposite. So, what will the next step be? Will there be further escalation? Could there be still room for negotiation? Some experts say Tehran might come to the table after all, even after all this, but this is a stark moment of uncertainty for the world.


6:10am

Trump did not seek Congress approval for strikes 

The US Constitution gives lawmakers the power to declare war and authorise military activity. But Trump did not seek the approval of Congress before striking Iran.

In the Senate and House of Representatives, lawmakers from both major parties had put forward legislation to compel Trump to go to Congress before attacking Iran's nuclear site. But Trump preempted the votes on the bills.

Lack of congressional authorisation will likely be a major talking point in US politics, especially if a broader war breaks out.


6:02am

Trump announces air strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran

US President Donald Trump announced Saturday that the United States has completed a "very successful attack" on nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

The president said all planes are now outside of Iran air space, reports CNN.

"We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. All planes are now outside of Iran air space. A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors. There is not another military in the World that could have done this. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!Thank you for your attention to this matter," Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.

Top News / World+Biz

Trump administration / Israel-Iran Conflict

Comments

While most comments will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive, moderation decisions are subjective. Published comments are readers’ own views and The Business Standard does not endorse any of the readers’ comments.

Top Stories

  • Iran fires missiles at US airbase in Qatar in response to strikes, Doha says attack intercepted, no casualties
    Iran fires missiles at US airbase in Qatar in response to strikes, Doha says attack intercepted, no casualties
  • An interception takes place after Iran's armed forces say they targeted the Al-Udeid base in a missile attack, in Qatar, June 23, 2025. REUTERS/Stringer
    'There's no cause for concern', says Qatar
  • Iran maintains attack was meant to target US, not Qatar
    Iran maintains attack was meant to target US, not Qatar

MOST VIEWED

  • Representational image. Photo: Collected
    Power returns to parts of Dhaka after 2-hour outage
  • Official seal of the Government of Bangladesh
    Govt raises minimum special allowance to Tk1,500 for civil servants, Tk750 for pensioners in FY26 budget
  • Remittance dollar rate falls amid weak demand, strong export growth
    Remittance dollar rate falls amid weak demand, strong export growth
  • 'Made in Bangladesh' solar panels go to US for the first time
    'Made in Bangladesh' solar panels go to US for the first time
  • Union Bank branch manager uses multiple schemes to embezzle Tk8cr: Internal probe
    Union Bank branch manager uses multiple schemes to embezzle Tk8cr: Internal probe
  • Representational image. Photo: Collected
    Budget FY26: NBR slashes income tax for publicly traded companies, private educational institutions

Related News

  • What comes next as the US enters the conflict between Israel and Iran
  • Strikes on Iran mark Trump's biggest, and riskiest, foreign policy gamble
  • UN chief 'alarmed' by US strikes on Iran, EU urges return to talks
  • Trump says US forces bombed 3 Iran nuclear sites; claims 'Fordow is gone' and 'now is the time for peace'

Features

The HerWILL mentorship programme - Cohort 01: A rarity in reach and depth

The HerWILL mentorship programme - Cohort 01: A rarity in reach and depth

1d | Features
Graphics: TBS

Who are the Boinggas?

1d | Panorama
PHOTO: Akif Hamid

Honda City e:HEV debuts in Bangladesh

1d | Wheels
The Jeeps rolled out at the earliest hours of Saturday, 14th June, to drive through Nurjahan Tea Estate and Madhabpur Lake, navigating narrow plantation paths with panoramic views. PHOTO: Saikat Roy

Rain, Hills and the Wilderness: Jeep Bangladesh’s ‘Bunobela’ Run Through Sreemangal

1d | Wheels

More Videos from TBS

How the Russian economy is surviving despite Western sanctions

How the Russian economy is surviving despite Western sanctions

2h | Others
Bangladesh and Indian intelligence agencies involved in disappearances: Disappearance Commission

Bangladesh and Indian intelligence agencies involved in disappearances: Disappearance Commission

3h | Podcast
Americans hit by surging electricity prices

Americans hit by surging electricity prices

3h | Others
News of The Day, 23 JUNE 2025

News of The Day, 23 JUNE 2025

4h | TBS News of the day
EMAIL US
contact@tbsnews.net
FOLLOW US
WHATSAPP
+880 1847416158
The Business Standard
  • About Us
  • Contact us
  • Sitemap
  • Advertisement
  • Privacy Policy
  • Comment Policy
Copyright © 2025
The Business Standard All rights reserved
Technical Partner: RSI Lab

Contact Us

The Business Standard

Main Office -4/A, Eskaton Garden, Dhaka- 1000

Phone: +8801847 416158 - 59

Send Opinion articles to - oped.tbs@gmail.com

For advertisement- sales@tbsnews.net