Trump urges civilians to flee Tehran as world leaders push for a ceasefire
The Middle East teetered on the edge of all-out war this week as Israel launched a sweeping military campaign against Iranian nuclear and military targets, triggering a deadly response from the Islamic Republic.
The operation, dubbed “Rising Lion,” marks one of the largest coordinated Israeli strikes in recent history—hitting over 100 targets across Iran, including nuclear facilities, IRGC command centers, and suspected missile sites.
Iran’s retaliatory campaign, “True Promise III,” began almost immediately, with waves of ballistic missiles and drones raining down on Israeli cities. While Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling systems intercepted most projectiles, at least 24 Israeli civilians have been killed, and hundreds more wounded.
Iran claims over 220 civilians have died within its borders from Israeli airstrikes, with more than 1,200 injured. The attacks have deeply rattled the region, prompting mass evacuations in both nations and global alarm.
Trump Issues Emergency Warning: “Everyone Should Immediately Evacuate Tehran”
Former President Donald J. Trump made headlines Monday night with a blistering statement on Truth Social, saying, “Iran should have signed the ‘deal’ I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!”
The post immediately caused oil prices to spike and stock futures to tumble, while sparking speculation over a potential Israeli ground invasion or nuclear escalation.
Trump, who left the G7 summit in Canada early to return to Washington, reportedly convened a late-night National Security Council meeting, signaling concern over Iran’s nuclear capabilities and regional ambitions.
Tehran in Chaos
In Tehran, Israeli strikes sparked mass panic. Dozens of missiles struck near key government compounds and communications facilities. Social media footage shows thousands of civilians fleeing the capital in what has been described as the largest exodus from Tehran since the Iran–Iraq War.
Hospitals, apartment blocks, and even state TV facilities have suffered damage, according to local reports. UN observers warn of a rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis, while the Iranian government has vowed continued resistance.
Global Response and Ceasefire Hopes
At the G7 Summit, French President Emmanuel Macron praised Trump’s push for a ceasefire, saying his early departure to coordinate U.S. response “opened the door for dialogue,” despite Trump later refusing to sign the G7’s joint de-escalation statement.
European leaders expressed support for Israel’s right to self-defense, while urging protection of civilians and restraint on both sides. The UN nuclear watchdog confirmed significant damage to Iran’s enrichment infrastructure, though it did not confirm any release of nuclear material.
Mossad’s Shadow Role
Sources close to Israeli intelligence suggest Mossad operatives helped smuggle drone swarms into Iran prior to the strikes, targeting radar systems and air defense networks—softening the battlefield for the incoming Israeli Air Force.
Israel’s Defense Minister declared the strikes a “pre-emptive measure to prevent an existential threat”, referencing suspected Iranian plans to advance nuclear warhead delivery systems.
Timeline of Escalation
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 13 | Israel launches “Operation Rising Lion” on Iranian military sites |
| June 14–16 | Iran responds with “Operation True Promise III” missile barrage |
| June 16 | Mass evacuation of Tehran begins; major strikes hit the capital |
| June 16 | Trump urges Tehran evacuation |
A Spiritual Call
Amid the geopolitical chaos, many Christians in the region and around the world are turning to prayer. Israeli pastors and house churches in Iran have issued calls for fasting, intercession, and repentance.
Reverend Franklin Graham issued this statement over the weekend, calling on Christians to intercede in prayer for the Middle East. “Iran has said that they want to wipe Israel off the face of the map. They would also like to destroy America. Iran is a sponsor of terror. The Oct. 7 attack on Israel was perpetrated by Hamas, which is controlled by Iran. Israel has been attacked in the north by Hezbollah, which is controlled by Iran. And Iran has been using the Houthis to fire missiles almost every day toward Israel, and they are controlled by Iran. I was in Israel last week, and we had to take shelter several times as Houthi missiles were fired into the country. Imagine if we had to live like that here in the US. Israel has been forced into defending itself and needs our prayers. All of us who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and trust Him should “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem” (Psalm 122:6). Pray that this can be resolved quickly.”
What Comes Next?
While no formal ceasefire has been reached, backchannel talks reportedly involve Swiss and Omani intermediaries. The U.S., under Trump’s direction, is said to be exploring options to broker a short-term ceasefire while enforcing red lines around Iran’s nuclear activity.
For now, the world watches—on edge—as biblical lands once again become a global flashpoint.
URGENT PRAYER REQUEST:
Pray for the protection of innocent lives, wisdom for leaders, and a spiritual awakening across the Middle East.
Stay with Thrive News for continuing coverage on this developing story.
