Iran will never surrender, says Khamenei as tensions spiral

SUPREME LEADER REJECTS TRUMP'S ULTIMATUM, WARNS OF 'IRREPARABLE DAMAGE'

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Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said yesterday the nation would never surrender as demanded by President Donald Trump and warned the United States it would face "irreparable damage" if it intervenes in support of its ally.

The speech came six days into the conflict, with Trump demanding Iran's "unconditional surrender" while boasting the United States could kill Khamenei and fuelling speculation about a possible intervention.

The long-range blitz began Friday, when Israel launched a massive bombing campaign that prompted Iran to respond with missiles and drones.

"This nation will never surrender," Khamenei said in a speech read on state television, in which he called Trump's ultimatum "unacceptable".

"America should know that any military intervention will undoubtedly result in irreparable damage," he said.