Trump Calls for Unconditional Surrender from Iran in Latest Statement

US President Trump Stresses Maximalist War Objectives Amid Ongoing Conflict

In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, US President Donald Trump has reiterated that any deal with Iran must result in the country’s “unconditional surrender”. This stance appears to reject the prospect of compromise amid Iranian confirmation of diplomatic mediation efforts to end the conflict.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had earlier stated that some countries are engaging in mediation efforts, emphasizing that Iran is committed to peace in the region but prepared to defend itself. The conflict has spread across the Middle East, resulting in a mass displacement crisis in Lebanon and straining ties with Gulf countries.

The violence has seen Iranian forces launch missiles and drones at Israel and US interests, as well as targeting energy and civilian infrastructure in Gulf countries. Oil prices have soared globally due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently wrote to Trump that the US plan for a “clean rapid military victory” had failed, stating that Plan B would also be unsuccessful. On Friday, Araghchi posted a photo of coffins of a mother and child, apparently victims of US-Israeli attacks, vowing that Iran’s armed forces will avenge those targeted.

According to UNICEF, the war has killed at least 1,332 people in Iran, including 181 children. The deadliest incident was a strike on a girls’ primary school in Minab, which killed about 180 pupils and staff.

The Trump administration has emphasized confidence and dominance over Iran, with officials stating that the US would “rain missiles” and “death and destruction” on the country. Trump has also expressed interest in replicating the Venezuela playbook in Iran, installing a leader who is friendly to US interests while maintaining the existing governing system.

Source: Al Jazeera