The ‘wild’ final hours in Middle East: How Mojtaba Khamenei’s secret directive averted a US bombing campaign
Indian Express·3h ago·Fear
What Happened
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei directed negotiators to reach a deal with the United States, preventing a large-scale bombing campaign. US President Donald Trump threatened total annihilation but announced a two-week ceasefire instead. Pentagon forces were preparing airstrikes in final hours before Trump's decision. Khamenei communicated through aides due to assassination threats. Iran's 10-point proposal served as basis for negotiations on sanctions, enrichment, and regional withdrawal.
Key Entities
Mojtaba KhameneiDonald TrumpIranUnited StatesSteve WitkoffAbbas AraghchiPentagonStrait of HormuzAxios