Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, asserted early Wednesday that Iran will not yield to external threats, particularly from allies of Israel and U.S. President Donald Trump, as conflict intensifies in the Middle East.
“It is unreasonable to ask the Iranian people to give in,” Khamenei posted on X (formerly Twitter). “What exactly are we supposed to surrender to? Iran will never capitulate to any aggressor.”
He emphasized, “This stance reflects the mindset and resilience of our nation.”
Khamenei’s remarks were a direct response to Trump’s recent demand for Iran’s “unconditional surrender,” stating that a ceasefire was insufficient and reiterating his desire for Tehran to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
While Trump hinted at potential U.S. military involvement, he clarified that he does not currently intend to target Khamenei personally. “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is. He’s an easy target—but we’re not going to strike him, at least not right now,” Trump said Tuesday. He warned against attacks on civilians and U.S. forces, saying, “Our patience is wearing thin.”
Iran has dismissed demands for surrender, continuing its nuclear program and warning the U.S. against intervening. “If the U.S. steps into this war, it will suffer consequences far more severe than Iran,” Khamenei warned in another post.
He also criticized Trump’s rhetoric as “absurd,” insisting that the Iranian people are not intimidated by such threats. “They should threaten those who fear threats,” he said.
According to Human Rights Activist, a Washington-based group, over 500 Iranians have died and more than 1,000 have been injured in the conflict so far.
Both Trump and Israeli officials have urged civilians to leave Tehran, anticipating further airstrikes and rising casualties. “Iran should’ve accepted the deal I offered. This is a tragic and unnecessary loss of life,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Let me be clear: IRAN MUST NOT ACQUIRE A NUCLEAR WEAPON.”
He reiterated, “I’ve said it again and again—everyone needs to evacuate Tehran immediately.”
