Trump Convenes National Security Council Amid Rising Tensions with Iran

As the U.S. evaluates potential military intervention in Iran, tensions escalated further as Tehran launched new ballistic missile attacks against Israel, which retaliated. While Donald Trump continues to raise the stakes and leaves the possibility of U.S. involvement open, reports from Israel indicate they faced a significant wave of at least 30 missiles. For the first time, there is mention of a missile strike in an open area in Jerusalem. Iranian ballistic missiles fired at Israel have reportedly hit several targets. In response, Israel conducted new strikes against Iran overnight, urging residents of Tehran suburbs to evacuate. Meanwhile, the emergency meeting of the National Security Council convened by Trump concluded early Wednesday morning (Greek time) on June 18. The session, held in the White House’s Situation Room, lasted approximately one hour and twenty minutes. Prior to the meeting, it was revealed that Trump had a phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Although Trump does not expect to comment on the discussions within the National Security Council or his communication with Netanyahu, American media suggests efforts may now focus on persuading France and Britain to join forces with Israel against Iran. Trump reiterated that the U.S. would not kill Iran’s Supreme Leader ‘for now’ but demanded unconditional surrender following unprecedented military conflict triggered by Israel’s attack on June 13. Potential options under consideration include using American-made bombs designed for deep underground bunkers and extending flight durations for Israeli fighter jets.