Donald Trump demanded Iran's 'unconditional surrender' as the United States prepared what could be its largest bombardment yet, amid rising global oil prices and escalating regional tensions. The president vowed to 'Make Iran Great Again' if the country's leadership concedes defeat and installs what he described as an acceptable new leader, promising economic revival with support from American allies.

The escalation comes after the reported killing of Iran's supreme leader in earlier strikes, with Tehran's temporary leadership council now weighing his successor. American officials have alleged that Russia is supplying Iran with intelligence on the locations of American warships and aircraft, a claim Moscow has declined to address.

Long range bombers have arrived at a British air base after the British government granted limited defensive use of its facilities. Iran is bracing for intensified strikes, while the United States is also moving to protect commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz amid blockade threats.

The conflict has drawn sharp criticism from European leaders and former military officials, who warned that assassinating Iran's religious leader could inflame sectarian tensions and deepen instability. Political divisions have also surfaced in Britain over the extent of its involvement in the unfolding war.