Israel-Iran War Live | June 19, 2025 | 20:50 IST

Israel-Iran War Live News: As Tel Aviv Targets Khamenei, Russia & China Slam Israeli Strikes

Last Updated: June 19, 2025 | 9:00 PM IST
By Taaza Wire Desk

Tensions in the Middle East are spiraling out of control as Israel has officially declared Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei a legitimate military target. The move has drawn sharp rebukes from global powers including Russia and China, as fears of a regional war continue to escalate.

Top Developments Today:

“Khamenei Can No Longer Be Allowed to Exist” – Israel

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz made a stunning statement today, blaming Khamenei directly for attacks on Israeli civilian infrastructure.

“Khamenei personally gives the order to fire on hospitals. Such a man can no longer be allowed to exist,” Katz said at a press conference in Holon, near Tel Aviv.

The remarks come hours after an Israeli hospital was damaged in a missile strike allegedly launched from Iran.

Russia Warns US: “Do Not Intervene”

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has issued a stark warning to Washington, cautioning against any form of US military intervention.

“Any American interference could trigger another terrible spiral of escalation,” he said, via Russian state agency TASS.

Xi Jinping: “Ceasefire Is Top Priority”

China’s President Xi Jinping, during a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, called for “all parties — especially Israel — to immediately cease hostilities.”

“Promoting a ceasefire is the top priority. Armed force is not the correct way to resolve international disputes,” Xi told Putin, as reported by Xinhua.

Xi and Putin also strongly condemned Israeli strikes on Iranian territory, saying the situation must be defused via diplomatic means.

Diplomacy in Action

Iran FM to Attend Emergency OIC Meeting in Istanbul

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will travel to Istanbul on Saturday to participate in an emergency session of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), focusing on Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear sites.

The OIC meet is expected to discuss:

• The attack on Khondab nuclear facility in Arak
• Possible collective Islamic response

🇬🇧🇩🇪🇫🇷 Iran To Join Geneva Nuclear Talks

FM Araghchi also confirmed participation in talks with France, Germany, the UK, and the EU in Geneva on Friday. The agenda includes reviving nuclear diplomacy amid rising war tensions.

US Issues Warning to Hezbollah

US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack warned Hezbollah against joining the conflict on Iran’s side:

“That would be a very, very, very bad decision,” Barrack said, implying a possible US military retaliation.

Quick Summary:

Actor	Statement	Position
Israel	Khamenei must be eliminated	Offensive escalation
Russia	US must not interfere	Warns of regional war
China	Ceasefire urgent, blames Israel	Supports Iran diplomatically
US	Hezbollah must stay out	Warns of consequences
Iran	Attending OIC + Geneva talks	Pursuing diplomacy

Tensions Peak as Middle East Edges Toward All-Out War

The Middle East is on the verge of a full-scale war as the conflict between Israel and Iran intensifies. In the latest Israel Iran War Live Updates, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have issued an evacuation warning for residents near Iran’s Arak and Khondab regions—home to a major nuclear facility. This aggressive move signals potential airstrikes on Iranian military infrastructure, including its nuclear program.

Meanwhile, India has successfully evacuated over 100 students from Iran, marking the first wave under Operation Sindhu. These students arrived safely in Delhi early Thursday via Armenia, even as Tehran faces continuous Israeli bombardments and retaliatory missile strikes.

Israel Iran War Live Updates: Israel’s Defence Minister Calls for Khamenei’s Removal

In his most direct statement yet, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei “can no longer be allowed to exist.”
Speaking near Holon, Katz accused Khamenei of personally authorizing missile attacks on Israeli hospitals and reiterated that Israel’s very existence is being threatened.

“He personally gives the order to fire on hospitals,” Katz said. “Such a man can no longer be allowed to exist.”

Iran FM to Attend Geneva Talks With France, Germany, UK, and EU

In a parallel diplomatic move, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed he will travel to Geneva on Friday to meet with foreign ministers of France, Germany, Britain, and the EU’s top diplomat.
The meeting is aimed at addressing Iran’s nuclear programme amid ongoing strikes and rising global alarm.

US Warns Hezbollah — ‘Don’t Get Involved’

US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack warned Hezbollah against any involvement in the Iran-Israel conflict.

“That would be a very, very, very bad decision,” he stated, emphasizing that President Trump’s administration will not tolerate an expansion of war into Lebanon.

Iran FM to Join Emergency OIC Session in Istanbul

Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi is also slated to attend an emergency meeting of the OIC in Istanbul on Saturday.
The session will focus on Israel’s strike on the Khondab facility in Arak and broader aggression.
Experts say the targeted Arak site had potential for weapons-grade plutonium production.

Egypt Urges E3 to Open Dialogue With Iran

In a bid to cool down tensions, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty urged the E3 (France, UK, Germany) to reopen diplomatic channels with Tehran.
He emphasized the need for de-escalation through direct dialogue, following high-level calls with French and UK diplomats.

Iran Accuses IAEA Chief of Bias Toward Israel

Iran’s Foreign Ministry accused IAEA Director Rafael Grossi of “betraying the nuclear pact” and siding with Israel.
The statement said Grossi has made the IAEA “a partner in an unjust war”, undermining global non-proliferation principles.

30 Injured in Israeli Cities After Fresh Missile Barrage

At least 30 people have been injured in a massive Iranian missile strike across multiple Israeli cities including Be’er Sheva and Tel Aviv. According to Amman-based journalist Nour Odeh, two victims are reported to be in critical condition. Emergency services remain on high alert.

Israel Iran War Live Updates: Netanyahu Threatens ‘Heavy Price,’ Iran Warns US

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Tehran, promising a “heavy price” for targeting Soroka Hospital and civilians.
Meanwhile, Iranian Deputy FM Kazem Gharibabadi warned the U.S. to stay out, threatening to respond with “all necessary options” if provoked.

Arak and Natanz Nuclear Facilities Struck by Israel

Israel has officially confirmed airstrikes on Iran’s Arak heavy-water reactor and Natanz nuclear weapons site. The IDF claimed it targeted Arak’s core seal structure and missile component factories, marking a major escalation.

IDF Orders ‘Intensified Strikes’ to Undermine Iranian Regime

Israel’s Defense Minister, alongside PM Netanyahu, has directed the IDF to step up operations across Iran. The stated aim: “weaken the regime” and eliminate threats to Israeli security.

20 Injured, Tel Aviv Stock Exchange Damaged

Missile strikes on Ramat Gan have injured over 20 people and damaged several buildings, including the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange, according to reports from The Times of Israel.

Israel Slams Attack as ‘War Crime’ After 30 Injured

Israel labeled the latest Iranian missile strike — which left 30 injured and hit areas near Soroka Medical Center — as a “war crime”.
Officials clarified the hospital was affected by a blast wave from a nearby military strike, not a direct hit.

Israel Iran War Live Updates: Israeli Stock Exchange Reportedly Hit

Al Jazeera confirms that Iranian missiles struck the Israeli Stock Exchange building in Tel Aviv, with Soroka Hospital in Be’er Sheva also suffering structural damage.

44 Injured by Iran’s Missile Attacks

According to Anadolu Agency, at least 44 people have been injured across Israel in today’s attacks — 3 critically. Emergency units continue search and rescue operations in Tel Aviv, Be’er Sheva, and Ramat Gan.

Japan, China, Indonesia Begin Evacuation Plans

As tensions rise, Japan, China, and Indonesia have announced evacuation protocols for their citizens in both Israel and Iran. Chinese nationals are being routed through Sinai, while Japan coordinates flights via regional hubs.

Iran Says Target Was IDF Intelligence Hub Near Hospital

Iran’s IRNA reported that the missile strike in Be’er Sheva was meant for the IDF C4I military intelligence center, located next to Soroka Hospital in Gav-Yam Tech Park.
The hospital damage reportedly came from the shockwave, not a direct impact.

Missile Hits Soroka Hospital, Roof Collapse Reported

A missile from Iran has hit Soroka Medical Center in Be’er Sheva, causing a roof collapse, according to The Times of Israel.
Photos and videos shared by journalist Emanuel Fabian show emergency responders clearing the rubble. At least 30 people are believed to be injured so far.

Iranian Missiles Hit Israeli Hospital, Explosions in Holon

A wave of Iranian missile strikes has reportedly hit southern Israel. One missile struck the Soroka Medical Center in Be’er Sheva, causing structural damage, while explosions were also heard in Tel Aviv, including areas such as Ramat Gan and Holon. Emergency services have been deployed, and damage assessments are ongoing.

Major Recap — Bombs on Tehran, Missiles on Israel, Gaza Civilian Casualties

Here’s a brief overview of the top developments from the last 24 hours:

• 🇮🇱 Israeli Airstrikes on Tehran, Karaj, and Arak nuclear facility
• 🚨 Evacuation Orders in Arak-Khondab before attacks
• 🚀 Iranian Missiles strike Jerusalem and Tel Aviv
• 💔 Gaza: At least 16 killed near Netzarim Junction in Israeli strike
• 🕊️ Putin denies rumors of Khamenei assassination; calls for calm
• 🧭 China begins evacuation of citizens via Sinai desert

Israeli Military Kills Senior Hezbollah Artillery Commander

Israel claims it has killed Yassin Abdel Moneim Ezzedine, a top artillery commander in Hezbollah’s southern Lebanon operations. The commander reportedly played a key role in past attacks on Israel and efforts to strengthen Hezbollah’s missile program. Hezbollah has yet to confirm the report.

Israel Bombs Arak Heavy-Water Nuclear Reactor

Israeli jets targeted Iran’s Arak nuclear reactor, one of its most controversial facilities. This follows earlier IDF warnings to civilians in the region. Iranian state media acknowledged the strike, but the extent of the damage remains unknown at this time.

Iran Fires New Wave of Missiles at Jerusalem and Tel Aviv

Residents across central Israel were jolted awake as Iran launched another barrage of missiles, with explosions reported in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Air raid sirens and interceptor missiles lit up the sky. At least four confirmed impact sites are being investigated.

IShell CEO Flags Shipping Risks in Middle East

Shell CEO Wael Sawan raised alarm over growing maritime risks in the Persian Gulf amid the conflict. Speaking in Tokyo, he mentioned electronic interference in navigation systems and confirmed Shell is taking extra precautions with vessels operating in the region.

Putin Urges Balance, Says Iran and Israel Must Resolve Conflict

Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Moscow supports peaceful nuclear development but insists the solution must come from Iran and Israel directly. He dismissed any notion of Russia imposing terms and highlighted diplomatic engagement with the US, Iran, and Israel.

Mass Protests in New York Against Israeli Strikes

Hundreds rallied in Manhattan to denounce Israeli military actions in Iran and Gaza. Protesters held placards like “Hands off Iran now” and “Stop funding genocide.” The protests follow similar demonstrations outside the White House, urging the US to stay out of the conflict.

Gold Prices Climb as War Fears Deepen

Gold rose to $3,376.48/oz as investors flocked to safe-haven assets amid rising war tension. Market analyst Tim Waterer warned that US entry into the war could push gold even higher, while the Fed’s rate stance has moderated some gains.

Oil Prices Volatile as Trump Sends Mixed Signals

Oil markets remain jittery. Brent crude is down to $76.33, and WTI crude at $74.86, as former President Trump refused to confirm or deny US involvement in the next phase of the war. Analysts say prices could swing up to $5 either way depending on the next geopolitical move.

Israel Warns of Airstrikes Near Arak Nuclear Plant

In a statement published on its Farsi-language broadcast, the IDF explicitly warned civilians living near Arak and Khondab—two cities in western Iran—saying:

“Evacuate immediately from the marked area. Your presence here puts your life at risk.”

This declaration, matched with satellite imagery, confirms the area includes the Arak heavy water reactor, a site that has long been under international scrutiny.

The threat of a strike on Iran’s nuclear capabilities pushes the region into extremely dangerous territory, with global powers watching closely.

Operation Sindhu: 100+ Indian Students Evacuated Safely

Amid the escalating Israel Iran War, India acted swiftly to protect its nationals. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the first batch of Indian students was transported by road into Armenia from Iran and flown to New Delhi from Yerevan.

“We’re in constant contact with Indian citizens via our emergency helplines,” stated the Indian Embassy in Tehran.

Iran is a major destination for Indian medical students, and officials confirmed more evacuations are being planned in coordination with regional partners. The Israel Iran War Live Updates continue to monitor this evolving situation as Indian missions remain active on the ground.

VIDEO | Operation Sindhu: The first flight carrying 110 Indian students, who were evacuated to Armenia from war-torn Iran, landed in Delhi in the early hours on Thursday.

“The government… (Indian) Embassy helped us a lot. Thank you,” says a student.

(Full video available on… pic.twitter.com/NJ9c1UPTrs

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 19, 2025

Iran Imposes Nationwide Internet Blackout

In a major move to suppress internal communication and media reporting, Iran’s Ministry of ICT has shut down internet access across the country. Officials cited “security reasons” following Israeli airstrikes in Tehran and Iranian missile launches toward Israel.

This blackout not only cuts off Iranians from the outside world but also hinders foreign evacuations and diplomatic communication.

Iran Launches Sejjil-2 Missiles Toward Israel

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that multiple Sejjil-2 ballistic missiles were launched towards Israel. These 2,000 km range missiles, capable of carrying significant payloads, are solid-fueled and mobile, making them harder to intercept.

The IRGC declared the attack a “proportional response” to Israel’s recent wave of airstrikes on Tehran and surrounding areas. The statement warned:

“Further aggression will result in stronger and decisive retaliatory strikes.”

Sleepless Nights in Tehran: Bombs and Sirens

Residents in Tehran reported a night of fear and chaos. Israeli jets reportedly targeted over 20 military facilities, including missile hubs, airbases, and even Iran’s police headquarters.

Focus Keyword: Israel Iran War Live Updates

Air raid sirens blared for hours as explosions echoed across the capital. Israeli sources claimed the operation significantly degraded Iran’s retaliatory capacity.

US Evacuates Diplomats from Israel Amid Crisis

The United States has begun diplomatic evacuation of embassy staff from Israel using military aircraft. Though Ben Gurion Airport remains shut, US officials said that private citizens are not yet being evacuated, but contingency plans are in place.

This comes amid Trump’s increasing openness to military action against Iran’s nuclear facilities—a red line for Tehran.

Iran to US: Stay Out, Or Face Consequences

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister has issued a stern warning to the United States, stating:

“If America joins this war militarily, we will strike wherever necessary.”

Despite this, Tehran also extended a diplomatic olive branch, saying it is still committed to dialogue—provided its sovereignty is respected.

Australia Begins Evacuations, Urges Iran to Abandon Nuclear Ambitions

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that Australians are being evacuated from both Israel and Iran, and urged Tehran to return to nuclear negotiations.

“Iran must make a choice: escalation or diplomacy,” Wong said.

With over 2,500 Australians in the war zone, emergency consular teams are working around the clock.

Analysis: Where Is This Headed?

This war is no longer just a regional confrontation. It is becoming an international crisis.

• Israel’s direct threat to Iran’s nuclear site is unprecedented.
• Iran’s missile response indicates a readiness to escalate further.
• India, the US, Australia, and others are now involved—either evacuating or preparing militarily.
• The internet blackout in Iran suggests possible internal instability or attempts to control war narrative.

If diplomacy fails, the next phase could see unthinkable consequences, especially if nuclear facilities are attacked.

🔻 What’s Next?

The Middle East stands at a dangerous crossroads. As calls for a ceasefire grow louder, Tel Aviv appears determined to escalate. All eyes are now on:

• Saturday’s OIC summit in Istanbul
• Friday’s nuclear talks in Geneva
• Potential US and Hezbollah military movements

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