Trump demands Iran's 'unconditional surrender' but says supreme leader is safe 'for now'

Trump and Khamenei Trade Tense Rhetoric Amid Rising Iran-Israel Conflict

As military tensions escalate between Israel and Iran, a separate war of words has erupted online between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In a series of statements posted Tuesday on his Truth Social platform, Trump claimed the United States has achieved “complete and total control of the skies over Iran.” He followed with a direct message aimed at Khamenei, warning: “We know exactly where the so-called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there – We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now.”

Trump added that the U.S. is exercising restraint, but emphasized that “our patience is wearing thin,” concluding his message with a bold declaration: “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!”

Iranian leadership showed no indication of backing down. Khamenei responded through a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), published across multiple language accounts. One message declared, “We will never compromise with Zionists,” while another warned, “We will show the Zionists no mercy.” In a separate post, Khamenei stated bluntly: “The battle begins.”

The rhetorical exchange underscores the volatile regional dynamics, with both military operations and political messaging intensifying by the day.