JUNE 16/GOLD CLOSED DOWN $33.85 TO $3398.00/SILVER WAS UP $0.11 TO $36.40/PLATINUM WAS UP $28.30 TO $X1255.80/WHILE PALLADIUM WAS UP $0.15 TO $1037.20//ISRAEL ATTACKS IRAN’S NUCLEAR FACILITIES AS WAR ESCALATES: I AM PROVIDING A COMPREHSIVE SUMMARY OF EVENTS FROM SATURDAY THROUGH TO MONDAY: ISRAEL WARNED IRAN NOT TO HIT ANY CIVILIAN AREAS BUT THAT FELL ON DEATH EARS: THUS ISRAEL ATTACKED IRAN’S INFRACTURE AND NOW HAVE AIR SUPERIORITY// ISRAEL KNOCKS OUT IRANS’ TV AND RADIO TRANSMISSION BUILDING//IRAN NOW USING HYPERSONIC MISSILES WHICH ARE IMPOSSIBLE TO SHOOT DOWN//RUSSIA US UKRAINE UPDATES/VACCINE UPDATES/VACCINE INJURY REPRTS/USA DATA REPORTS//SWAMP STORIES FOR YOU TONIGHT..
Bitcoin: afternoon price: $108,667 UP 3607 DOLLARS
Platinum price closing UP $28.30 TO $1255.80
Palladium price; UP $0.15 TO $1037.20
END
*CANADIAN GOLD: $4,598.87 DOWN 68.17 CDN dollars per oz( * NEW ALL TIME HIGH $4735.70 CDN DOLLARS PER OZ//APRIL 21 2025)
*BRITISH GOLD: 2495.76 DOWN 33.43 Pounds per oz// *(NEW ALL TIME HIGH//CLOSING//2,566.50 BRITISH POUNDS/OZ) MAY 6/2025
*EURO GOLD: 2931.22 DOWN 37.35 Euros per oz //* (ALL TIME CLOSING HIGH: 3018.80 EUROS PER OZ/ APRIL 21 //2025)
DONATE
EXCHANGE: COMEX
JPMORGAN STOPPED 98/1376
JUNE
GOLD: NUMBER OF NOTICES FILED FOR JUNE/2024: 14 CONTRACTs NOTICES FOR 1400 OZ or 0.0435 TONNES
total notices so far: 26,341 contracts for 2,634,100 OR 81.93` tonnes)
FOR JUNE
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
SILVER NOTICES: 44 NOTICE(S) FILED FOR 220,000 OZ/
total number of notices filed so far this month : 3240 CONTRACTS (NOTICES) for 16.200 million oz
Click here if you wish to send a donation. I sincerely appreciate it as this site takes a lot of preparation
END
GLD/
BOTH GLD AND SLV ARE FRAUDULENT VEHICLES//THEY ARE NOW RAIDING GLD AND SLV FOR PHYSICAL
THE CROOKS ARE STEALING GOLD AND SILVER FROM THE GLD/SLV AND REPLACING THE PHYSICAL WITH PAPER DOLLARS.
WITH GOLD DOWN $33.85 INVESTORS SWITCHING TO SPROTT PHYSICAL (PHYS) INSTEAD OF THE FRAUDULENT GLD:
HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD INVENTORY AT THE GLD: A DEPOSIT OF 7,58 TONNES OF GOLD FROM THE GLD
INVENTORY RESTS AT 940.49 TONNES
SLV/
WITH NO SILVER AROUND AND SILVER UP $0.11 AT THE SLV: HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV: ///A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.727 MILLION OZ FROM THE SLV//
CLOSING INVENTORY RESTS AT:
CLOSING INVENTORY: 471.823 MILLION OZ
Let us have a look at the data for today
SILVER//OUTLINE
SILVER COMEX OI FELL BY A STRONG SIZED 578 CONTRACTS TO 179,955 AND STALLING ON ITS MARCH TO THE RECORD HIGH OI OF 244,710, SET FEB 25/2020, AND THIS HUGE SIZED GAIN IN COMEX OI WAS ACCOMPLISHED WITH OUR SMALL GAIN OF $0.18 IN SILVER PRICING AT THE COMEX WITH RESPECT TO FRIDAY’S TRADING AND WE FINALLY HAVE THE PIERCING OF $34.40 TO 34.50 SILVER PRICE BARRIER. WE HAD A HUGE SIZED GAIN OF 702 TOTAL CONTRACTS ON OUR TWO EXCHANGES AS THE CME NOTIFIED US OF A 1165 CONTRACT EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE.. WE HAD LITTLE LIQUIDATION OF T.A.S. CONTRACTS COMEX TRADING WITH RESPECT TO FRIDAY’S TRADING AS THEY DESPERATELY AGAIN TRIED TO CONTAIN SILVER’S PRICE RISE FOR THE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS (WHERE RAIDS ARE CALLED UPON AGAIN AND AGAIN TRYING TO STOP THE RISE IN SILVER’S PRICE TO ABOVE $34.40 AND TO QUELL ADDITIONAL DERIVATIVE LOSSES TO OUR BANKERS’ MASSIVE TOTALS). THEY FAILED ON THURSDAY WITH SILVER’S GAIN IN PRICE. THE PRICE FINISHED MILES ABOVE THE MAGIC NUMBER OF $34.40 SILVER SPOT PRICE CLOSING AT $36.29. . BUT AS PROMISED WE ENDED OUR MEGA MEGA HUGE T.A.S. ISSUANCE WITH FRIDAY NIGHT’S 350 CONTRACTS ISSUED BY THE CME AND THAT SIGNALS DEEP CODE RED THAT THE CROOKS ARE DESPERATE TO STOP SILVER BREAKING WELL ABOVE THE 34.40 DOLLAR MARK!!. THE NEXT LINE IN THE SAND IS THE ORIGINAL HIGH POINT OF 50.00 DOLLAR SILVER. WE HAD A STRONG 1165 CONTRACT EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE ACCOMPANIED BY OUR FAIR SIXED 350 CONTRACT T.A.S ISSUANCE WHICH WILL BE USED IN FRIDAY’S TRADING/ AS THEY PLAY AN INTEGRAL PART IN OUR COMEX TRADING TRYING TO CONTAIN ANY SILVER PRICE RISE. IN ESSENCE WE GAINED A STRONG SIZED 587 CONTRACTS ON OUR TWO EXCHANGES DESPITE OUR SMALL GAIN IN PRICE OF $0.18.
THE CME NOTIFIED US THAT FOR THE FIRST TWO DAYS OF THE MONTH OF MAY, WE HAD TWO CONSECUTIVE ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK CONTRACTS OF 12.93 MILLION OZ. THESE EXCHANGE FOR RISKS WERE ADDED TO OUR NORMAL DELIVERY SCHEDULE. THE RECIPIENT OF THIS LARGESS IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE CENTRAL BANK OF INDIA. LOGICALLY ONLY A CENTRAL BANK WOULD ACCEPT THIS CRAZY CONTRACT WHEREBY THE CENTRAL BANK OF INDIA TAKES THE RISK OF DELIVERY FROM A BULLION BANK WHO CANNOT GUARANTEE DELIVERY OF PHYSICAL SILVER TO THEM.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CROOKS NEED A HIGHER SILVER/GOLD T.A.S. TO CARRY ON THEIR CROOKED MANIPULATION ON A DAILY BASIS BUT DEMAND IS JUST TOO HIGH FOR THEM. THE HIGHER ISSUANCE OF T.A.S ESPECIALLY SILVER IS NOW USED TO TEMPER OUR SILVER PRICE RISE OR INITIATE A RAID AS WHAT HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES LAST MONTH AND AGAIN WITH LAST WEEK’S TRADING ON SILVER AND NOW TODAY AS SILVER PRICE ROCKETED PAST THE $34.40 BARRIER! . THE PRICE OF SILVER FINISHED TRADING AT $36.56 AS WE WILL NOW HEAD FOR THE ALL TIME HIGH OF $50.00
CRAIG HEMKE HAS POINTED OUT THAT THE CROOKS USE THE MID MONTH FOR MANIPULATION AS THEY SELL THEIR BUY SIDE OF THE CALENDAR SPREAD FIRST AND THEN KEEP THE SELL SIDE TO LIQUIDATE AT A LATER DATE. THUS WE HAVE TWO VEHICLES THE CROOKS USE FOR MANIPULATION AND BOTH ARE SPREADERS: 1) AT MONTH’S END/SPREADERS COMEX AND 2/ TAS SPREADERS, MID MONTH. TOTAL TAS ISSUED ON FRIDAY NIGHT/SATURDAY MORNING: A FAIR 350 CONTRACTS. DESPITE MANY COMPLAINTS THAT THE CROOKS HAVE VIOLATED POSITION LIMITS DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE TAS ISSUED HAVE A VALUE OF ZERO (AS TO POSITION LIMITS FOR OUR CROOKED BANKERS). THE PROBLEM OF COURSE IS THAT THE CROOKS DO NOT LIQUIDATE THE TAS TOGETHER BUT SELL THE BUY SIDE FIRST AND THEN LIQUIDATE THE SELL SIDE TWO MONTHS HENCE. IT IS OBVIOUS MANIPULATION TO THE HIGHEST DEGREE BUT IT NATURALLY FELL ON DEAF EARS WITH OUR REGULATORS (OCC) WHEN THEY RECEIVED OUR COMPLAINTS. IT NOW SEEMS THAT THE OCC HAS ORDERED THE BANKS TO REDUCE ITS NEW LEVEL OF 1 TRILLION DOLLARS IN GOLD/SILVER DERIVATIVES.
WE HAVE IN THE PAST YEAR SET ANOTHER RECORD LOW AT 114,102 CONTRACTS ///JULY 3.2023// OUR BANKERS WITH THE HELP OF SPECULATORS AND HIGH FREQUENCY TRADERS WERE UNSUCCESSFUL IN KNOCKING THE PRICE OF SILVER DOWN (IT ROSE BY $0.18) AND WERE UNSUCCESSFUL IN KNOCKING OFF ANY NET SILVER LONGS FROM THEIR PERCH AS WE HAD A HUGE GAIN OF 5163 CONTRACTS ON OUR TWO EXCHANGES.
WE HAD A 1165 CONTRACT ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICALS) iiii) AN INITIAL SILVER STANDING FOR COMEX SILVER MEASURING AT 9.90 MILLION OZ FOLLOWED BY TODAY’S 450,000 OZ QUEUE JUMP//NEW TOTAL STANDING ADVANCES TO 16.500 MILLION OZ!!
THUS:
INITIAL STANDING FOR JUNE: 9.90 MILLION OZ PLUS TODAY’S 460,000 OZ QUEUE JUMP = 16.500 MILLION OZ.
WE HAD:
/ FAIR COMEX OI LOSS+// A 1165 SIZED EFP ISSUANCE (/ VI) A SMALLER NUMBER OF T.A.S. CONTRACT ISSUANCE 350 CONTRACTS)
I AM NOW RECORDING THE DIFFERENTIAL IN OI FROM PRELIMINARY TO FINAL: REMOVED A SMALL 211 CONTRACTS.
HISTORICAL ACCUMULATION OF EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICALS JUNE. ACCUMULATION FOR EFP’S SILVER/JPMORGAN’S HOUSE OF BRIBES/STARTING FROM FIRST DAY/MONTH OF MAY
TOTAL CONTRACTS for 11 DAY(S), total 10,383 contracts: OR 51.915 MILLION OZ (943 CONTRACTS PER DAY)
TOTAL EFP’S FOR THE MONTH SO FAR: 51.915 MILLION OZ
LAST 24 MONTHS TOTAL EFP CONTRACTS ISSUED IN MILLIONS OF OZ:
MAY 137.83 MILLION
JUNE 149.91 MILLION OZ
JULY 129.445 MILLION OZ
AUGUST: MILLION OZ 140.120
SEPT. 28.230 MILLION OZ//
OCT: 94.595 MILLION OZ
NOV: 131.925 MILLION OZ
DEC: 100.615 MILLION OZ
YEAR 2022:
JAN 2022-DEC 2022
JAN 2022// 90.460 MILLION OZ
FEB 2022: 72.39 MILLION OZ//
MARCH 2022: 207.140 MILLION OZ//A NEW RECORD FOR EFP ISSUANCE
APRIL: 114.52 MILLION OZ FINAL//LOW ISSUANCE
MAY: 105.635 MILLION OZ//
JUNE: 94.470 MILLION OZ
JULY : 87.110 MILLION OZ
AUGUST: 65.025 MILLION OZ
SEPT. 74.025 MILLION OZ///FINAL
OCT. 29.017 MILLION OZ FINAL
NOV: 134.290 MILLION OZ//FINAL
DEC, 61.395 MILLION OZ FINAL
TOTALS YR 2022: 1135.767 MILLION OZ (1.1356 BILLION OZ)
JAN 2023/// 53.070 MILLION OZ //FINAL
FEB: 2023: 100.105 MILLION OZ/FINAL//MUCH STRONGER ISSUANCE VS THE LATTER TWO MONTHS.
MARCH 2023: 112.58 MILLION OZ//FINAL//STRONG ISSUANCE
APRIL 111.035 MILLION OZ(SLIGHTLY GREATER THAN THAN LAST MONTH)
MAY 66.120 MILLION OZ/INITIAL (MUCH SMALLER THIS MONTH)
JUNE: 110.395 MILLION OZ//MUCH LARGER THAN LAST MONTH
JULY 85.745 MILLION OZ (SMALLER THAN LAST MONTH)
AUGUST: 171.43 MILLION OZ (THIS MONTH IS GOING TO BE HUGE //2ND HIGHEST ON RECORD
SEPT: 72.705 MILLION OZ (SMALLER THIS MONTH)
OCT: 97.455 MILLION OZ
NOV. 50.050 MILLION OZ
DEC. 66.140 MILLION OZ//
TOTAL 2023: 1,104.10 MILLION OZ/
JAN ’24 : 78.655 MILLION OZ//
FEB /2024 : 66.135 MILLION OZ./FINAL
MARCH: 143.750 MILLION OZ// 4TH HIGHEST ON RECORD.
APRIL: 161.770 MILLION OZ (THIS MONTH WILL BE A WHOPPER OF ISSUANCE OF EFPS//3RD HIGHEST EVER RECORDED FOR A MONTH)
MAY: 135.995 MILLION OZ //WILL BE A STRONG MONTH FOR EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE
JUNE 110.575 MILLION OZ ( WILL BE ANOTHER STRONG MONTH ISSUANCE)
JULY: 108.870 MILLION OZ (WILL BE A STRONG ISSUANCE MONTH/ A TOUCH OVER 100 MILLION OZ/)
AUGUST; 99.740 MILLION OZ//THIS MONTH WILL BE STRONG FOR ISSUANCE BUT LESS THAN JULY.
SEPT: 112.415 MILLION OZ//WILL BE A HUGE MONTH FOR EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE
OCT; 97.485 MILLION OZ (WILL BE SMALLER ISSUANCE THIS MONTH )
NOV. 115.970 MILLION OZ ( HUGE THIS MONTH)
DEC: 132.54 MILLION OZ (THIS MONTH WILL BE A HUMDINGER FOR ISSUANCE BUT ISSUANCE SLOWED DRAMATICALLY THESE PAST FIVE DAYS/// WILL NOT EXCEED MARCH 2022 RECORD OF 209 MILLION OZ
YEAR 2024 TOTAL: 1363.84 MILLION OR 1.363 BILLION OZ
JANUARY 2025: 67.230 MILLION OZ///(THIS MONTH’S ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL WILL BE SMALL)
FEB. 58.260 MILLION OZ//EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE/FINAL
MARCH: 67.020 MILLION OZ///QUITE SMALL AND BECOMING SMALLER EACH AND EVERY MONTH.
APRIL: 100.895 MILLION OZ///AVERAGE SIZE ISSUANCE
MAY: 28.975 MILLION OZ (ISSUANCE WILL BE QUITE SMALL THIS MONTH)
JUNE: 51.915 MILLION OZ (NOTICE EFP ISSUANCE GETTING LARGER
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
RESULT: WE HAD A STRONG SIZED DECREASE IN COMEX OI SILVER COMEX CONTRACTS OF 578 CONTRACTS DESPITE OUR SMALL GAIN IN PRICE OF $0.18 IN SILVER PRICING AT THE COMEX// FRIIDAY.,. . THE CME NOTIFIED US THAT WE HAD A 1165 CONTRACT EFP ISSUANCE CONTRACTS: 1165 ISSUED FOR JULY AND 0 CONTRACTS ISSUED FOR ALL OTHER MONTHS) WHICH EXITED OUT OF THE SILVER COMEX TO LONDON AS FORWARDS.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
WE FINISHED APRIL WITH A STRONG SILVER OZ STANDING OF 16.050 MILLION OZ NORMAL DELIVERY , PLUS OUR 4.00 MILLION EX FOR RISK
FINAL STANDING APRIL: 19.965 MILLION OZ
AND MAY:
NEW STANDING FOR MAY FINISHES AT: 75.615 MILLION OZ. (INCLUDES 5,000 OZ EFP TRANSFER TO LONDON + 12.93 MILLION OZ EXCHANGE FOR RISK ISSUANCE/PRIOR.//NEW TOTAL STANDING 88.540 MILLION OZ
AND NOW JUNE: INITIAL 9.90 MILLION OZ PLUS 450,000 OZ QUEUE JUMP = 16.500 MILLION OZ
THE NEW TAS ISSUANCE FRIDAY NIGHT (350 ) WILL BE PUT INTO “THE BANK” TO BE COLLUSIVELY USED AT A LATER DATE AND FOR SURE TODAY’S TRADING (MONDAY TRADING) AND BEYOND.
WE HAD 47 NOTICE(S) FILED TODAY FOR 235,000 OZ
THE SILVER COMEX IS NOW BEING ATTACKED FOR METAL BY LONDONERS ET AL. IT IS NOW TIME FOR THE FBI TO ENTER THE COMEX AND ARREST THESE CROOKS EVEN THOUGH THE MAJORITY OF THE TRADING IS GOVERNMENT. THE BANKERS ARE COMPLICIT
GOLD//OUTLINE
IN GOLD, THE COMEX OPEN INTEREST ROSE BY A STRONG SIZED 7364 OI CONTRACTS TO 439,674 AND CLOSER TO THE RECORD (SET JAN 24/2020) AT 799,105 AND PREVIOUS TO THAT: (SET JAN 6/2020) AT 797,110. (ALL TIME LOW OF 390,000 CONTRACTS.) THUS WE HAVE A LOW OI IN COMEX WITH AN EXTREMELY HIGH PRICE OF GOLD. THE SHORT RATS ARE ABANDONING THE SHIP.
THE DIFFERENTIAL FROM PRELIMINARY OI TO FINAL OI IN GOLD TODAY: REMOVED A HUMONGOUS 1739 CONTRACTS //.
WE HAD A STRONG SIZED INCREASE IN COMEX OI (7364 CONTRACTS) . THIS OCCURRED WITH OUR GAIN OF $53.40 IN PRICE// FRIDAY///.
MAY: SUMMARY FOR MAY TONNES WHICH STOOD FOR DELIVERY:
FINAL STANDING FOR MAY: 70.174 TONNES OF GOLD TO WHICH WE ADD 1. MONDAY’S (MAY 19) 6.221 TONNES EXCHANGE FOR RISK , 2. THEN WE ADD: 1.35 TONNES TO LAST WEEK”S. THEN WE ADD 3. 1.55 TONNES TO EQUAL 9.591 TONNES// NEW EXCHANGE FOR RISK = 9.591 TONNES WHICH MUST BE ADDED TO OUR NORMAL DELIVERY SCHEDULE OF 80.644 TONNES. THUS STANDING FOR MAY INCREASES TO 90.235 TONNES OF GOLD
JUNE CONTRACT MONTH
/ WE HAD A $53.40 GAIN IN PRICE WITH RESPECT TO FRIDAY’S COMEX ///. WE HAD A STRONG SIZED GAIN OF 10,686 OI CONTRACTS (32.23 PAPER TONNES) ON OUR TWO EXCHANGES, WITH MANY LONGS, REMAINING AT THE END OF THE DAY, TENDERING FOR PHYSICAL GOLD VIA THE EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ROUTE, MUCH TO THE ANGER AND HORROR EXHIBITED BY OUR MAJOR BANKER, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF NEW YORK. THE HORROR INTENSIFIED ONCE LONDON STARTED TO TRADE DURING THE FIRST THREE WEEKS OF MAY, AND THROUGHOUT EACH AND EVERY DAY MAJOR TENDERING FOR PHYSICAL VIA THE EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ROUTE! THE RESULT: A SMALLER THAN EXPECTED INITIAL AMOUNT OF GOLD STANDING FOR DELIVERY FOR THE JUNE CONTRACT MONTH….. A SMALLISH 62.534 TONNES TO WHICH WE ADD TODAY’S 0.8802 TONNES OF A QUEUE JUMP //NEW STANDING ADVANCES TO 83.716 TONNES!!. CENTRAL BANKERS ARE NOW WAITING PATIENTLY FOR THEIR DELIVERY OF GOLD VIA SLOW MOVING SHIPS.
E.F.P. ISSUANCE
THE CME RELEASED THE DATA FOR EFP ISSUANCE AND IT TOTALED A FAIR SIZED 3322 CONTRACTS:
The NEW COMEX OI FOR THE GOLD COMPLEX RESTS AT 439,674/NOW AT THE LOW END OF THE SCALE DESPITE THE HIGH PRICE OF GOLD!!
SILVER ALSO HAS A LOW COMEX OI OF 179,955 CONTRACTS BUT GAINING RAPIDLY!!
IN ESSENCE WE HAVE A STRONG SIZED INCREASE IN TOTAL CONTRACTS ON THE TWO EXCHANGES OF 10,686 CONTRACTS WITH 7364 CONTRACTS INCREASED AT THE COMEX// AND A FAIR SIZED 2727 EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL OI CONTRACT ISSUANCE WHICH NAVIGATED OVER TO LONDON. THUS TOTAL OI GAIN ON THE TWO EXCHANGES OF 10,686 CONTRACTS.. WE HAD THE FOLLOWING TAS CONTRACTS INITIATED (ISSUED): A FAIR SIZED AND CRIMINAL 1476 CONTRACTS
CALCULATIONS ON GAIN/LOSS ON OUR TWO EXCHANGES
WE HAD A FAIR SIZED ISSUANCE IN EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICALS CONTRACT(2727) ACCOMPANYING THE STRONG SIZED INCREASE IN COMEX OI OF 7,364 CONTRACTS/TOTAL GAIN FOR OUR THE TWO EXCHANGES: 12,425 CONTRACTS..WE HAVE 1) NOW RETURNED TO OUR FORMER FORMAT OF BANKERS GOING LONG AND SPECULATORS GOING SHORT ,2.) WEAK INITIAL STANDING FOR GOLD FOR JUNE AT 62.524TONNES FOLLOWED BY TODAY’S 0.8802 TONNES QUEUE JUMP //NEW STANDING ADVANCES TO 83.718 TONNES./
NEW STANDING FOR GOLD, JUNE CONTRACT AT 82.836 TONNES OF GOLD.
.
/ 3) ZERO T.A.S. LIQUIDATION , AS WE HAD 1)A $53.40 COMEX PRICE GAIN.. WE HAD 2) ZERO NET LONG SPECS BEING CLIPPED WITH THAT GAIN IN PRICE AS WE HAD A STRONG GAIN OF 6940 CONTRACTS ON OUR TWO EXCHANGES // /./ ALSO, 3)STICKY GOLD’S LONGS WERE REWARDED FRIDAY EVENING AS THEY EXERCISED EFP’S FROM LONDON TO TAKE DELIVERY OF BADLY NEEDED PHYSICAL AND THUS OUR HUGE TONNAGE STANDING FOR GOLD FOR MAY BUT SMALLER FOR JUNE!
4) STRONG SIZED COMEX OI GAIN// 5) FAIR SIZED ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL PAPER (1550 CONTRACTS)/// FAIR T.A.S. ISSUANCE: 1471 T.A.S.CONTRACTS//
HISTORICAL ACCUMULATION OF EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICALS IN 2023-2025 INCLUDING TODAY
JUNE INITIAL
ACCUMULATION OF EFP’S GOLD AT J.P. MORGAN’S HOUSE OF BRIBES: (EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL) FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE :
TOTAL EFP CONTRACTS ISSUED: 20,060CONTRACTS OR 2,006,000 OZ OR 62.39 TONNES IN 11 TRADING DAY(S) AND THUS AVERAGING: 1823 EFP CONTRACTS PER TRADING DAY
TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA AS TO THE SIZE OF THESE EFP TRANSFERS : THIS MONTH IN11 TRADING DAY(S) IN TONNES 62.39 TONNES
TOTAL ANNUAL GOLD PRODUCTION, 2024, THROUGHOUT THE WORLD EX CHINA EX RUSSIA: 3555 TONNES
THUS EFP TRANSFERS REPRESENTS 62.39 TONNES DIVIDED BY 3550 x 100% TONNES = 1.74% OF GLOBAL ANNUAL PRODUCTION
SEPT 142.12 TONNES FINAL ISSUANCE ( LOW ISSUANCE)_
OCT: 141.13 TONNES FINAL ISSUANCE (LOW ISSUANCE)
NOV: 312.46 TONNES FINAL ISSUANCE//NEW RECORD!! (INCREASING DRAMATICALLY)//SIGN OF REAL STRESS//SURPASSING THE MARCH 2021 RECORD OF 276.50 TONNES OF EFP
DEC. 175.62 TONNES//FINAL ISSUANCE//
TOTALS: 2,578.08 TONNES/2021
JAN:2022 247.25 TONNES //FINAL
FEB: 196.04 TONNES//FINAL
MARCH/2022: 409.30 TONNES //FINAL( THIS IS NOW A RECORD EFP ISSUANCE FOR MARCH AND FOR ANY MONTH.
APRIL: 169.55 TONNES (FINAL VERY LOW ISSUANCE MONTH)
MAY: 247.44 TONNES FINAL//
JUNE: 238.13 TONNES FINAL
JULY: 378.43 TONNES FINAL/SECOND HIGHEST ON RECORD
AUGUST: 180.81 TONNES FINAL
SEPT. 193.16 TONNES FINAL
OCT: 177.57 TONNES FINAL ( MUCH SMALLER THAN LAST MONTH)
NOV. 223.98 TONNES//FINAL ( MUCH LARGER THAN PREVIOUS MONTHS//comex running out of physical)
DEC: 185.59 tonnes // FINAL
TOTAL: 2,847,25 TONNES/2022
JAN 2023: 228.49 TONNES FINAL//HUGE AMOUNT OF EFP’S ISSUED THIS MONTH!!
FEB: 151.61 TONNES/FINAL
MARCH: 280.09 TONNES/INITIAL (ANOTHER STRONG MONTH FOR EFP ISSUANCE)
APRIL: 197.42 TONNES
MAY: 236.67 TONNES (A VERY STRONG ISSUANCE FOR THIS MONTH)
JUNE: 172.667 TONNES (WEAKER ISSUANCE THIS MONTH)
JULY: 151.69 TONNES (WEAKER THAN LAST MONTH)
AUGUST: 195.28 TONNES (A STRONGER MONTH)//FINAL
SEPT: 254.709 TONNES (WILL BE LARGER THAN LAST MONTH AND A STRONG MONTH)
OCT. 248.09 TONNES. LIKE SILVER, THIS MONTH IS GOING TO BE A STRONG E.F.P. ISSUANCE.
NOV. 239.16 TONNES//WILL BE STRONG THIS MONTH,
DEC. 213.704 TONNES. A STRONG MONTH//
TOTAL FOR YEAR 2023: 2,569.57 TONNES VS 2578 TONNES LAST YEAR
2024 AND 2025:
JAN ’24: 291.76 TONNES (WILL BE MUCH GREATER THAN LAST MONTH.//3RD HIGHEST EVER RECORDED EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL)
FEB’24: 201.947 TONNES
MARCH 2024: 352.21 TONNES//2ND HIGHEST EVER RECORDED EFP ISSUANCE.
APRIL: 267.05TONNES (WILL BE AN EXTREMELY STRONG MONTH BUT LESS THAN MARCH 2024)
MAY; 316.606 TONNES (WILL BE ANOTHER STRONG MONTH// 3RD HIGHEST RECORDED EFP ISSUANCE )// NOTICE THE HUGE INCREASES IN EX FOR PHYSICAL THESE PAST FEW MONTHS. THESE CONTRACTS ARE CIRCLED BACK FROM LONDON WHEREBY METAL IS REMOVED FROM THE COMEX.
JUNE 175.11 tonnes HEADING FOR A WEAKER MONTH AND MUCH LESS THAN THE THREE PREVIOUS MONTHS
JULY: 351. 65 TONNES (3RD HIGHEST EVER RECORDED EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL AND THE HIGHEST EVER RECORDED POST BASEL III)
AUGUST: 274.79 TONNES//THIS MONTH WILL NO DOUBT BE A STRONG ISSUANCE OF EFP’S BUT MUCH LESS THAN LAST MONTH.
SEPT: 335 .104 TONNES//IF THIS CONTINUES WE WILL HAVE A HUMDINGER OF AN EFP ISSUANCE. WE WILL PROBABLY END JUST SHORT OF THE 3RD HIGHEST ISSUANCE EVER RECORDED.
OCT. 277.71 TONNES (THIS WILL BE A GOOD ISSUANCE THIS MONTH)
NOV: 393.875 TONNES ( A HUGE MONTH////NOW SURPASSED THE PREVIOUS 3RD AND 2ND HIGHEST EVER RECORDED EX FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE TO BECOME THE 2ND HIGHEST EVER RECORDED
DEC 360.03 TONNES THIRD HIGHEST EVER RECORDED FOR EFP ISSUANCE
TOTAL 2024 YEAR. 3,597.846 TONNES
JAN. 2025: 257.919 TONNES (ISSUANCE WILL BE PRETTY GOOD THIS MONTH BUT MUCH LOWER THAN LAST MONTH)
FEB: 207.21 TONNES//EX FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE (WILL BE A FAIR SIZED ISSUANCE THIS MONTH)
MARCH 130.84 TONNES//QUITE SMALL THIS MONTH.
APRIL; 208.57 TONNES. STILL A SMALL TO FAIR ISSUANCE FOR THE MONTH.
MAY: 113.499 TONNES OF GOLD EFP ISSUANCE//QUITE SMALL THIS MONTH
JUNE: 62.39 TONNES OF GOLD EFP ISSUANCE/EXTREMELY SMALL
SPREADING OPERATIONS
NOW SWITCHING TO GOLD) FOR NEWCOMERS, HERE ARE THE DETAILS
SPREADING LIQUIDATION HAS NOW COMMENCED AS WE HEAD TOWARDS THE NEW ACTIVE FRONT MONTH OF APRIL. WE ARE NOW INTO THE SPREADING OPERATION OF GOLD
HERE IS A BRIEF SYNOPSIS OF HOW THE CROOKS FLEECE UNSUSPECTING LONGS IN THE SPREADING ENDEAVOUR ;MODUS OPERANDI OF THE CORRUPT BANKERS AS TO HOW THEY HANDLE THEIR SPREAD OPEN INTERESTS:HERE IS HOW THE CROOKS USED SPREADING AS WE ARE NOW INTO THE NON ACTIVE DELIVERY MONTH OF NOV HEADING TOWARDS THE ACTIVE DELIVERY MONTH OF FEB., FOR GOLD: AND MARCH FOR SILVER
YOU WILL ALSO NOTICE THAT THE COMEX OPEN INTEREST STARTS TO RISE BUT SO IS THE OPEN INTEREST OF SPREADERS. THE OPEN INTEREST IN WILL CONTINUE TO RISE UNTIL ONE WEEK BEFORE FIRST DAY NOTICE OF AN UPCOMING ACTIVE DELIVERY MONTH (OCT), AND THAT IS WHEN THE CROOKS SELL THEIR SPREAD POSITIONS BUT NOT AT THE SAME TIME OF THE DAY. THEY WILL USE THE SELL SIDE OF THE EQUATION TO CREATE THE CASCADE (ALONG WITH THEIR COLLUSIVE FRIENDS) AND THEN COVER ON THE BUY SIDE OF THE SPREAD SITUATION AT THE END OF THE DAY. THEY DO THIS TO AVOID POSITION LIMIT DETECTION. THE LIQUIDATION OF THE SPREADING FORMATION CONTINUES FOR EXACTLY ONE WEEK AND ENDS ON FIRST DAY NOTICE.”
WHAT IS ALARMING TO ME, ACCORDING TO OUR LONDON EXPERT ANDREW MAGUIRE IS THAT THESE EFP’S ARE BEING TRANSFERRED TO WHAT ARE CALLED SERIAL FORWARD CONTRACT OBLIGATIONS AND THESE CONTRACTS ARE LESS THAN 14 DAYS. ANYTHING GREATER THAN 14 DAYS, THESE MUST BE RECORDED AND SENT TO THE COMPTROLLER, GREAT BRITAIN TO MONITOR RISK TO THE BANKING SYSTEM. IF THIS IS INDEED TRUE, THEN THIS IS A MASSIVE CONSPIRACY TO DEFRAUD AS WE NOW WITNESS A MONSTROUS TOTAL EFP’S ISSUANCE AS IT HEADS INTO THE STRATOSPHERE.
The crooks also use the spread in the TAS account (trade at settlement). They buy the spot TAS (e.g. June) and sell the future TAS two months out (e.g. August). Then they unload the front month (i.e. unload the buy side first so the price of gold/silver falls. This occurs in the middle of the front delivery month cycle. They unload the sell side of the equation, two months down the road. The crooks violate position limits as the OCC refuse to hear our complaints.
First, here is an outline of what will be discussed tonight:
1.TODAY WE HAD THE OPEN INTEREST AT THE COMEX IN SILVER FELL BY A STRONG SIZED 578 CONTRACTS OI TO 179,955 AND FURTHER FROM THE COMEX HIGH RECORD //244,710( SET FEB 25/2020). THE LAST RECORDS WERE SET IN AUG.2018 AT 244,196 WITH A SILVER PRICE OF $14.78/(AUGUST 22/2018)..THE PREVIOUS RECORD TO THAT WAS SET ON APRIL 9/2018 AT 243,411 OPEN INTEREST CONTRACTS WITH THE SILVER PRICE AT THAT DAY: $16.53). AND PREVIOUS TO THAT, THE RECORD WAS ESTABLISHED AT: 234,787 CONTRACTS, SET ON APRIL 21.2017 OVER 7 YEARS AGO. HOWEVER WE HAVE NOW SET A NEW RECORD LOW OF 114,102 CONTRACTS JULY 3.2023
EFP ISSUANCE 1165 CONTRACTS
OUR CUSTOMARY MIGRATION OF COMEX LONGS CONTINUE TO MORPH INTO LONDON FORWARDS AS OUR BANKERS USED THEIR EMERGENCY PROCEDURE TO ISSUE:
JULY 1165 and 0 ALL OTHER MONTHS: ZERO. TOTAL EFP ISSUANCE: 1165 CONTRACTS. EFP’S GIVE OUR COMEX LONGS A FIAT BONUS PLUS A DELIVERABLE PRODUCT OVER IN LONDON. IF WE TAKE THE COMEX OI LOSS OF 463 CONTRACTS AND ADD TO THE 1165 E.FP. ISSUED
WE OBTAIN A HUGE SIZED GAIN OF OPEN INTEREST CONTRACTS FROM OUR TWO EXCHANGES OF 702 CONTRACTS WITH THE GAIN IN PRICE OF $0.18 THE RATS ARE FLEEING THE ARENA.
THUS IN OUNCES, THE GAIN ON THE TWO EXCHANGES TOTALS 3.510 MILLION PAPER OZ
c) Commentaries from: Egon von Greyerz///Matthew Piepenburg via GoldSwitzerland.com, Pam and Russ Martens
ii a) Chris Powell of GATA provides to us very important physical commentaries
b. Other gold/silver commentaries
c. Commodity commentaries//
d)/CRYPTOCURRENCIES/BITCOIN ETC
2.ASIAN AFFAIRS
ASIAN MARKETS THIS MORNING:
SHANGHAI CLOSED UP 11.73 PTS OR 0.35%
//Hang Seng CLOSED UP 168.42 PTS OR 0.40%
// Nikkei CLOSED UP 477.68 PTS OR 1.76% //Australia’s all ordinaries CLOSED UP 0.65%
//Chinese yuan (ONSHORE) CLOSED UP AT 7.1802 OFFSHORE CLOSED UP AT 7.1822/ Oil UP TO 72.21 dollars per barrel for WTI and BRENT UP TO 73.53 Stocks in Europe OPENED ALL RED
ONSHORE USA/ YUAN TRADING ABOVE LEVEL OF OFFSHORE YUAN TRADING :/ONSHORE YUAN UP TRADING AT 7.1802 AND STRONGER//OFF SHORE YUAN TRADING UP TO 7.1822 AGAINST US DOLLAR/ AND THUS STRONGER
1. COMEX DATA//AMOUNTS STANDING//VOLUME OF TRADING/INVENTORY MOVEMENTS
GOLD
LET US BEGIN:
THE TOTAL COMEX GOLD OPEN INTEREST ROSE BY A STRONG SIZED 7,364 CONTRACTS TO A STILL LOW NUMBER OF 439,674 OI WITH OUR HUGE GAIN IN PRICE OF $53.40 WITH RESPECT TO FRIDAY’S // TRADING. WE LOST ZERO NUMBER OF NET LONGS WITH THAT PRICE GAIN FOR GOLD. AND AS YOU WILL SEE BELOW, OUR GAIN IN PRICE ALSO HAD A FAIR NUMBER OF EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ISSUED (3322 ). WE HAD LITTLE T.A.S. LIQUIDATION
THE CME ANNOUNCED FRIDAY NIGHT, A ZERO EXCHANGE FOR RISK CONTRACT ISSUANCE FOR 0 OZ OR NIL TONNES. TOTAL ISSUANCE FOR MAY WAS RECORDED AT 9.591 TONNES OF GOLD AND THIS TOTAL WAS ADDED TO OUR NORMAL DELIVERIES. THE BANK OF ENGLAND MUST BE GETTING QUITE ANTSY OF GETTING ITS GOLD BACK.
IN THE MONTH OF APRIL WE HAD RECORDED A NEW RECORD 7 ISSUANCES OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK AS THE BANK OF ENGLAND IS GETTING VERY ANTSY ABOUT GETTING ITS GOLD BACK. THUS OUR TOTAL EXCHANGE FOR RISK FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL STOOD AT 8.3571 TONNES OF GOLD WHICH WERE ADDED TO OUR NORMAL APRIL GOLD DELVERIES.
HISTORY: LAST FIVE MONTH’S EXCHANGE FOR RISK
IN MARCH:
THE TOTAL NO. OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK ISSUANCE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH (3 NOTICES) EQUALED: 7.6179 TONNES OF GOLD WHICH WAS ADDED TO OUR MARCH DELIVERY TOTALS.
IN FEBRUARY:
WE HAD A HUGE FIVE EXCHANGE FOR RISKS ISSUANCES FOR GOLD, TOTALLING 18.4527 TONNES!.
THE RECIPIENT OF ALL OF THESE EXCHANGE FOR RISK CONTRACTS IS THE BANK OF ENGLAND WHO DESPERATELY WANT THEIR LEASED GOLD BACK. THUS WE HAVE TWO SEPARATE ENTITIES (CENTRAL BANKS) DEMANDING THEIR GOLD BACK:
THE BANK OF ENGLAND
THE FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF NEW YORK (NEED TO RETRIEVE THEIR LEASED GOLD FROM THE BIS)
THE COUNTERPARTY TO THE BANK OF ENGLAND’S EXCHANGE FOR RISK ARE BULLION BANKS THAT CANNOT VERIFY THAT THEIR GOLD IS UNENCUMBERED AND THUS THE BUYER, THE CENTRAL BANK OF ENGLAND, ASSUMES THE RISK OF THAT DELIVERY. THIS IS THE 5TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH FOR ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK !!.(DEC THROUGH APRIL)
IN APRIL:
WE CONCLUDED APRIL WITH 7 ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK FOR A TOTAL TONNAGE OF 8.3571 TONNES.
IN MAY:
MAY: 3 EX. FOR RISK ISSUED SO FAR FOR 3025 CONTRACTS OR 302,500 OZ OR 9.4054 TONNES. THIS WILL BE ADDED TO OUR NORMAL DELIVERY TO GIVE US TOTAL STANDING FOR MAY!THIS IS THE 6TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH FOR ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK//NEW TOTAL EX FOR RISK IS 9.591 TONNES FOR THE 3 ISSUANCE!
IN JUNE
JUNE: ZERO ISSUED SO FAR!!
DETAILS ON JUNE COMEX MONTH//INITIAL
IN TOTAL WE HAD A STRONG SIZED GAIN ON OUR TWO EXCHANGES OF 10,686 CONTRACTS WITH OUR HUGE GAIN IN PRICE. HOWEVER, OUR FRIENDLY PHYSICAL LONDON BOYS HAD ANOTHER FIELD DAY AGAIN ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT AS THEY WERE READY FOR THE FRBNY.S CONTINUED ORCHESTRATED ATTEMPTED AND FAILED RAID VERY EARLY IN THE COMEX SESSION AS THEY TRIED TO ABSORB EVERYTHING IN SIGHT FROM THE DAILY ATTACKS WITH THE CONTINUAL LIQUIDATION OF T.A.S. CONTRACTS. LONDONERS EXERCISED THEIR BOUGHT CONTRACTS FOR PHYSICAL GOLD VIA THE EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ROUTE AND THANKED THE FRBNY FOR THE THOUGHTFULNESS. LONDON ANNOUNCED LATE (JAN 30) THAT THEY WERE OUT OF GOLD. WRONGLY IT WAS ATTRIBUTED TO THEIR SHIPPING PHYSICAL GOLD TO COMEX FOR STORAGE DUE TO TRUMP’S INITIATION OF TARIFFS. THE TRUTH OF THE MATTER IS THAT THIS GOLD LEFT LONDON TO CENTRAL BANKS, AND COMEX BANKS HAVE BEEN PAPERING THEIR LOSSES (DERIVATIVE) WITH KILOBAR ENTRIES. DELIVERY OF GOLD CONTRACTS ARE NOW TAKING SEVERAL WEEKS. NO DEFAULT HAS BEEN INITIATED AS DEALERS ARE AFRAID OF LOSS OF THEIR JOBS. SO THIS FRAUD CONTINUES. THE LEASE RATES IN LONDON HAVE NOW REVERTED BACK TO 1% BUT GOLD IN LONDON IS STILL EXTREMELY SCARCE. WE CAN NOW SAFELY SAY THAT THERE IS A RUN ON A BANK AND THAT BANK IS THE BANK OF ENGLAND!!!
THE LIQUIDATION OF T.A.S. CONTRACTS THROUGHOUT LAST MONTH OF MAY, AND JUNE CONTINUES TO DISTORT OPEN INTEREST NUMBERS GREATLY ALTHOUGH THE T.A.S. ISSUANCES IN GOLD HAVE GENERALLY BEEN ON THE LOW SIDE COMPARED TO SILVER WHICH HAVE BEEN HUGE. TODAY’S NUMBER HOWEVER IS FAIR AS THE CME NOTIFIES US THAT THEY HAVE ISSUED 1471 T.A.S.
THE T.A.S. LIQUIDATION OF THESE T.AS. CONTRACTS(ALONG WITH MONTH END SPREADERS) IS WHY WE ARE HAVING DISTORTED COMEX OPEN INTEREST GAINS AND LOSSES IN OI BUT THIS IS COUPLED WITH MEGA HUGE AMOUNTS OF GOLD STANDING FOR DELIVERY TO CONFUSE THE ISSUE!!!!! AND THIS WAS SURELY ON DISPLAY WITH FIRST DAY NOTICE TOTALS WITH GOLD TONNES STANDING FOR APRIL AT 209 + TONNES INCLUDING MANY MASSIVE QUEUE JUMPS AND THIS CONTINUED INTO MAY WITH FINAL STANDING AT 90.23 TONNES. HOWEVER JUNE WHICH IS NORMALLY A HUGE DELIVERY MONTH , INITIAL STANDING IS RECORDED AT 62.534 TONNES PLUS TODAY’S 0.8802 TONNES QUEUE JUMP = 83.716 TONNES. (IS THE COMEX RUNNING OUT OF GOLD?)//TOTAL NET QUEUE JUMPING FOR THE MONTH FOR THE MONTH: 21.182 TONNES
NEW TOTAL TONNES STANDING JUNE: 83.716 TONNES
THE FED IS THE OTHER MAJOR SHORT OF AROUND 32+ TONNES OF GOLD OWING TO THE B.I.S. THE FED NEEDS TO COVER AS THEY ARE VERY WORRIED ABOUT WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN TO GOLD PRICES NOW THAT THEY MUST BECOME COMPLIANT TO BASEL III RULES JULY 1/2023 AS OUTLINED IN ANDREW MAGUIRE’S LATEST LIVE FROM THE VAULT 225 EPISODE. AS HE TACKLES THIS IMPORTANT TOPIC. THE FOUR OR FIVE BANKS ARE ALSO WORRIED ABOUT THEIR HUGE PRECIOUS METAL DERIVATIVE EXPOSURE (NORTH OF ONE TRILLION DOLLARS) AND THIS IS PROBABLY THE MAJOR REASON FOR GOLD/SILVER’S RISE THESE PAST THREE MONTHS. THEY ARE TOTALLY TRAPPED., AND THEIR FAILURE TO STOP CENTRAL BANK PURCHASES OF PHYSICAL GOLD IS THE MAJOR ISSUE OF THE DAY!IT SURE LOOKS LIKE THE BIS HAS GIVEN THE FED ITS MARCHING ORDERS TO COVER ITS PHYSICAL GOLD SHORT. TRUMP WILL PROBABLY BE FURIOUS WITH THE FED IF IT FINDS OUT THAT THEY (FRBNY) HAS BEEN MANIPULATING THE GOLD MARKET FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS.
OUR PHYSICAL LONDONERS BOUGHT NEW MASSIVE QUANTITIES OF LONGS AT ANY PRICE AND THIS GOLD BOUGHT WILL BE TENDERED FOR PHYSICAL ON A T + ???? BASIS. BECAUSE GOLD IS BASEL III COMPLIANT, GOLD IS SUPPOSED BE DELIVERED IN A VERY TIMELY ONE DAY. CENTRAL BANKS AROUND THE WORLD, BEING REPRESENTED BY OUR LONDONERS, ARE THE REAL PURCHASERS OF THIS GOLD.
EUROPE IS NOW BASEL III COMPLIANT. THE WEST (FED AND COMEX) MUST BE COMPLIANT BY JULY 1//2025.
THE PROBLEM FOR THOSE PROVIDING THE SHORT PAPER IS THE SHOCK TO THEM ON RECEIVING NOTICE THAT THE LONGS WANT THE PHYSICAL GOLD AS THEY TENDER FOR THAT SHINY YELLOW METAL. THE HIGH LIQUIDATION OF OUR TWO SPREADERS: 1) THE MONTH END SPREADERS AND 2. T.A.S DURING THESE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS IS SURELY DISTORTING COMEX OPEN INTEREST BUT THAT DOES NOT STOP LONDON’S ACCUMULATION OF PHYSICAL! YOU CAN ALSO VISUALIZE THAT PERFECTLY WITH THE HUGE AMOUNTS OF QUEUE JUMPING ORCHESTRATED BY CENTRAL BANKERS BOLTING AHEAD OF ORDINARY LONGS AS THEIR NEED FOR PHYSICAL IS GREAT AS THEY SCOUR THE PLANET LOOKING FOR GOLD, AND THE MASSIVE AMOUNT OF GOLD STANDING EACH AND EVERY MONTH INCLUDING FIRST DAY NOTICE OF GOLD TONNAGE STANDING.
EXCHANGE FOR PHYSICAL ISSUANCE
THE CME REPORTS THAT THE BANKERS ISSUED A FAIR SIZED TRANSFER THROUGH THE EFP ROUTE AS THESE LONGS RECEIVED A DELIVERABLE LONDON FORWARD TOGETHER WITH A FIAT BONUS.,
THAT IS A FAIR SIZED 3522 EFP CONTRACT WAS ISSUED: : /AUGUST 3522 & ZERO FOR ALL OTHER MONTHS:
TOTAL EFP ISSUANCE: 3522 CONTRACT. THESE EFP;S CIRCLE AROUND LONDON ON A 13 DAY BASIS AND ARE NOW USED BY GLOBAL CENTRAL BANKS TO EXERCISE FOR PHYSICAL GOLD WITH THE OBLIGATION TO DELIVER BEING FORCED ONTO COMEX BANKS. THE GOLD GENERALLY DELIVERED COMES FROM LONDON BUT THEY ARE OUT!! THUS COMEX BECOMES THE MAJOR SOURCE FOR OUR CENTRAL BANKERS.
WE HAD :
ZERO LIQUIDATION OF OUR T.A.S. SPREADERS
ZERO NET SPEC LIQUIDATION WITH OUR HUGE GAIN IN PRICE
T.A.S.SPREADER ISSUANCE
AS PER OUR NEWBIE TRADE AT SETTLEMENT (TAS) MANIPULATION OPERATION (WHICH CRAIG HEMKE HAS POINTED OUT HAPPENS USUALLY DURING MID MONTH IN THE DELIVERY CYCLE), BUT NOW ON A DAILY BASIS, THE CME REPORTS THAT THE TOTAL T.A.S. ISSUANCE FOR SATURDAY MORNING//FRIDAY NIGHT WAS A FAIR SIZED, 1476 CONTRACTS.
THE RAIDS WHETHER ON OPTIONS EXPIRY MONTH OR OTHERWISE LIKE TODAY, ACCOMPLISHES TWO IMPORTANT ASPECTS FOR OUR CROOKS:
STALLS THE ADVANCE IN PRICE
LOWERS THEIR ADVANCING DERIVATIVE LOSSES.
MECHANICS OF T.A.S CONTRACTS/DECEMBER THROUGH MARCH, APRIL MAY AND JUNE
THROUGHOUT THE FEW YEARS, THE BANKERS CONTINUE TO SELL OFF THE LONG SIDE OF THE SPREAD (T.A.S.) WHICH OF COURSE CONTINUES TO MANIPULATE THE PRICE OF GOLD SOUTHBOUND. (THEY KEEP THE SHORT SIDE OF THE CALENDAR/T.A.S. SPREAD WHICH WILL BE LIQUIDATED IN DAYS HENCE.THIS WAS SURELY IN EVIDENCE IN TRADING THURSDAY WITH THE SMALL GAIN IN PRICE!
STANDING LAST 6 MONTHS OF 2025: STANDING FOR GOLD
YEAR 2025:
JAN 2025:
113.30 TONNES (WHICH INCLUDES 43.408 TONNES EX FOR RISK)
FEB: 2025:
256.607 TONNES (WHICH INCLUDES 18.4567 TONNES OF EX FOR RISK)
MARCH:
STANDING FOR GOLD : 60.33 TONNES + 7.6179 TONNES EX FOR RISK = 67.9479 TONNES WHICH IS EXTREMELY HIGH FOR A NON DELIVERY MONTH.
APRIL:
FINAL STANDING FOR GOLD: 201.573 TONNES + 8.3571 TONNES EX FOR RISK = 209.953 TONNES
MAY: FINAL STANDING 90.235 TONNES WHICH INCLUDES QUEUE JUMPING AND 9.591 TONNES EX FOR RISK.
JUNE: INITITAL STANDING 62.534 TONNES PLUS 0.8802 TONNES OF QUEUE JUMP EQUALS 83.716 TONNES
THIS IS CENTRAL BANKS STANDING FOR PHYSICAL GOLD!!
DEC. 47.073 + 4.634 TONNES OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK = 51.707 TONNES
TOTAL 2023 YEAR : 436.546 TONNES
2024/STANDING FOR GOLD/COMEX
JAN ’24. 22.706 TONNES
FEB. ’24: 66.276TONNES (INCLUDES 1.723 TONNES EX. FOR RISK)
MARCH: 18.8398 TONNES + 1.1695 EX FOR RISK = 20.093 TONNES
APRIL: 2024: 53.673TONNES FINAL
MAY/ 2024 8.5536 TONNES + 3.3716 TONNES EX FOR RISK/= 11.9325
JUNE; 95.578 TONNES. + 1.045 TONNES EXCHANGE FOR RISK =96.623 THIS IS THE HIGHEST RECORDED GOLD STANDING SINCE AUGUST 2022
JULY: 11.692 TONNES
AUGUST 69.602 TONNES//FINAL STANDING
SEPT. 13.164 TONNES.
OCT 39.474 TONNES + + 20.917 TONNES EXCHANGE FOR RISK =60.391 TONNES
NOV . 11.265 TONNES +4.665 TONNES EXCHANGE FOR RISK/TUESDAY + 3.11 TONNES OF EX. FOR RISK/PRIOR = 19.0425 TONNES
DEC: 80.4230 TONNES PLUS DEC MONTH EXCHANGE FOR RISK TOTAL 14.6836 TONNES EQUALS 95.1066 TONNES
total year 2024: 540.30 tonnes
COMEX GOLD TRADING/JUNE CONTRACT MONTH
THE SPECS/HFT WERE UNSUCCESSFUL IN LOWERING GOLD’S PRICE( IT ROSE BY $53.40/ /) AND THEY WERE UNSUCCESSFUL IN KNOCKING OFF ANY APPRECIABLE NET SPECULATOR LONGS AS WE DID HAVE A STRONG SIZED GAIN IN OI FROM TWO EXCHANGES. AND AS EXPLAINED ABOVE WE HAD CONSIDERABLE T.A.S. SPREADER LIQUIDATION ////FRIDAY AS THEY ARE STILL TRYING TO QUELL GOLD’S ATTEMPT AT FURTHER INCREASES ABOVE THE MAGIC $3,400 BARRIER AND STOP HUGE COMEX/OTC DERIVATIVE LOSSES FROM EXPLODING
SATURDAY MORNING//FRIDAY NIGHT
THE CROOKS HOWEVER COULD NOT STOP CENTRAL BANK LONGS, SEIZING THE MOMENT, THEY EXERCISED AGAIN FOR PHYSICAL IN A BIG WAY TENDERING FOR PHYSICAL FRIDAY EVENING/SATURDAY MORNING AND THUS OUR HUGE NUMBER OF GOLD CONTRACTS STANDING FOR DELIVERY AT THE COMEX. CENTRAL BANKERS WAIT PATIENTLY FOR THE GOLD TO ARRIVE BY BOAT. IT IS NOW TAKING SEVERAL WEEKS TO DELIVER
EXCHANGE FOR RISK EXPLANATION/FEB THROUGH /JUNE TRADING
EXCHANGE FOR RISK CONTRACTS/MONTH FOR FEBRUARY://FINISHES AT 4 ISSUANCES
THE CME ANNOUNCED TO THE WORLD THAT ON FEB 4 THEY ISSUED 100 CONTRACTS OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK TO THE BANK OF ENGLAND.THEN ,FEB 4 THEY ISSUED THEIR SECOND CONSECUTIVE EXCHANGE FOR RISK OF 500 CONTRACTS FOR 50,000 OZ (1.555 TONNES OF GOLD. FEB 6 WAS THE THIRD ISSUANCE FOR A HUGE 2400 CONTRACTS, 240,000 OZ OR 7.465 TONNES. AND THEN FINALLY FRIDAY NIGHT, THE 4TH EXCHANGE FOR RISK WAS ISSUED REPRESENTED BY 2834 CONTRACTS OR 283400 OZ OR 8.8149 TONNES OF GOLD WITH THE OWNER OF THOSE CONTRACTS BEING THE BANK OF ENGLAND. THE BANK OF ENGLAND WANTS THEIR GOLD BACK. THIS NEW EXCHANGE FOR RISK WAS ADDED TO PREVIOUS EXCHANGE FOR RISK OF 9.3264 TONNES TO A NEW TOTAL EXCHANGE FOR RISK = 18.1413 TONNES. IN MID WEEK WE HAD ANOTHER .3114 TONNES OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK ISSUANCED//NEW TOTAL 18,4527 TONNES!..FINALLY THIS TOTAL WAS ADDED TO OUR REGULAR DELIVERIES THROUGH THE MONTH.
EXCHANGE FOR RISK CONTRACTS/MONTH FOR MARCH
EARLY IN THE DELIVERY CYCLE THE CME NOTIFIED US THAT WE HAD OUR FIRST EXCHANGE FOR RISK CONTRACT ISSUANCE IN MARCH FOR 150 CONTRACTS REPRESENTING 15,000 OZ OF GOLD OR .46656 TONNES. THE BANK OF ENGLAND WAS STILL NOT SATISFIED AS THEY NEED TO RETRIEVE ALL OF ITS LOST GOLD THROUGH LEASING! THE 15,000 OZ WAS ADDED TO OUR NORMAL DELIVERY TOTAL.
MARCH ISSUES IT’S THIRD EXCHANGE FOR RISK: TOTAL FOR THE MONTH FINISHED AT 3
TOTAL ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK MARCH 28 TOTALS 2200 CONTRACTS FOR 6.8429 TONNES OF GOLD. PRIOR ISSUANCE: .7775 TONNES. THUS TOTAL EXCHANGE FOR RISK FOR MARCH : 7.6179 TONNES OF GOLD. MARCH BECOMES THE 4TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH FOR EXCHANGE FOR RISK ISSUANCE.
APRIL, ISSUED ITS 7TH EXCHANGE FOR RISK: 187 CONTRACTS OR 18,700 OZ OR 0.5816 TONNES
SUMMARY EXCHANGE FOR RISK FOR THE MONTH OFAPRIL//TOTAL ISSUANCES 7 FOR 8.3571 TONNES OF GOLD!:
ISSUANCE FOR EXCHANGE FOR RISK ON FIRST DAY NOTICE//APRILL MONTH// WAS 700 CONTRACTS FOR 70,000 OZ OR 2.177 TONNES OF GOLD TO WHICH WE ADD (APRIL 4) : 250 CONTRACTS FOR 25,000 OZ OR .777 TONNES, APRIL 7 ISSUANCE OF 280 CONTRACTS FOR 28,000 OZ OR .8709 TONNES THEN APRIL 9 484 CONTRACTS FOR 48400 OZ OR 1.5054 TONNES AND FINALLY MONDAY MORNING APRIL 14 AT 200 CONTRACTS FOR 20,000 OZ OR .5816 TONNES AND NOW APRIL 24: 600 CONTRACTS FOR 60,000 OZ OR 1.866 TONNES AND NOW APRIL 25 187 CONTRACTS FOR 18700 OZ OR .5816 TONNES//NEW FINAL TOTAL ISSUANCE FOR APRIL: 8.3571 TONNES!!. APRIL ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK MEANS WE NOW HAVE 5 CONSECUTIVE MONTHS FOR EXCHANGE FOR RISK ISSUANCE. THESE DELIVERIES WERE ADDED TO OUR NORMAL DELIVERY CYCLE.
MAY ISSUANCE OF EXCHANGE FOR RISK NOW TOTALS 3 ISSUANCES FOR 308,350 OZ. THIS TOTALS 9.591 TONNES OF GOLD WHICH WILL BE ADDED TO OUR REGULAR DELIVERY SCHEDULE. THE RECPIENT OF THIS LARGESS IS THE BANK OF ENGLAND.
ANALYSIS JUNE DELIVERY MONTH GOING FROM FIRST DAY NOTICE// JUNE COMEX CONTRACT
WE HAVE GAINED A STRONG SIZED TOTAL OF 32.23 PAPER TONNES FROM OUR TWO EXCHANGES, ACCOMPANYING OUR INITIAL GOLD TONNAGE STANDING FOR JUNE FIRST RECORDED AT 62.534 TONNES ON FIRST DAY NOTICE/MAY 30. TO THIS WE ADD FRIDAY NIGHT’S QUEUE JUMP OF 28,300 OZ OR 0.8802 TONNES OF GOLD//NEW STANDING FOR JUNE GOLD ADVANCES TO 83.716.
ALL OF THIS QUITE SMALL STANDING FOR JUNE WAS ACCOMPLISHED WITH OUR HUGE GAIN IN PRICE TO THE TUNE OF $55.75
WE HAD A HUGE 1,739 CONTRACTS REMOVED TO THE COMEX TRADES TO OPEN INTEREST (CROOKS)//PRELIMINARY TO FINAL. AND THIS IS TOTALLY INSANE AS WELL.
NET GAIN ON THE TWO EXCHANGES 10,686 CONTRACTS OR 1,068,600 0Z (32.23 TONNES)
Total monthly oz gold served (contracts) so far this month
26,327 notices 2,632,700 oz 81.888 TONNES
Total accumulative withdrawals of gold from the Dealers inventory this month
NIL oz
Total accumulative withdrawal of gold from the Customer inventory this month
dealer deposits: 1 entry
i) into Delaware dealer::
1543.248 oz 48 kilobars
total dealer deposit 1543.248 oz
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
DEPOSITS/CUSTOMER
we have 1 customer entries
1 ENTRY
i) Into HSBC 23,789.378 oz (740 kilobars)
total customer deposit 23,789.378 oz
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
withdrawals:
1 ENTRY
I) Brinks 20,184.320 oz
total withdrawal 20,184.320 oz
adjustments: 3// all dealer to customer
a) Ashai 12,424.219 oz
ii) Brinks 128,668.302 oz
iii) JPMorgan 53,818.577 oz
AMOUNT OF GOLD STANDING FOR JUNE
THE FRONT MONTH OF JUNE STANDS AT 588 CONTRACTS FOR A LOSS OF 1480 CONTRACTS. WE HAD 1763 CONTRACTS SERVED ON FRIDAY SO WE GAINED 283 CONTRACTS FOR 28300 OZ OR 0.8802 TONNES OF GOLD WHICH UNDERWENT A MASSIVE QUEUE JUMP WHERE THESE BOYS DECIDED TO TAKE IMMEDIATE DELIVERY ON THIS SIDE OF THE POND. THIS TOTAL WILL BE ADDED TO OUR INITIAL AMOUNT OF GOLD STANDING AT 62.534 TONNES//NEW STANDING ADVANCES TO 83.716 TONNES
JULY LOST 53 CONTRACTS TO STAND AT 6904
AUGUST GAINED 7542 CONTRACTS UP TO 333,976
We had 1763 contracts filed for today representing 176,300 oz
Today, 0 notice(s) were issued from J.P.Morgan dealer and 181 notices issued from their client or customer account. The total of all issuance by all participants equate to 1763 contract(s) of which 0 notices were stopped (received) by j.P. Morgan dealer and 473 notice(s) was (were) stopped (received) by J.P.Morgan//customer account
To calculate the INITIAL total number of gold ounces standing for JUNE /2025. contract month, we take the total number of notices filed so far for the month (26,341 X 100 oz ) to which we add the difference between the open interest for the front month of JUNE (588 CONTRACTS) minus the number of notices served upon today (14 x 100 oz per contract) equals 2,691,500 OZ OR 83.716 TONNES to which we add 0 tonnes of gold issued under exchange for risk// total standing 83.716 tonnes
thus the INITIAL standings for gold for the JUNE contract month: No of notices filed so far (26,327 x 100 oz +we add the difference for front month of JUNE (588 OI} minus the number of notices served upon today (1763 x 100 oz) which equals 2,691,500 OZ OR 82,836 TONNES + 0 tonnes EX FOR RISK = 82.836 tonnes
TOTAL COMEX GOLD STANDING FOR JUNE.: 82.836 TONNES WHICH IS SMALL FOR THIS NORMALLY ACTIVE ACTIVE DELIVERY MONTH IN THE CALENDAR. FEBRUARY HAD THE HIGHEST DELIVERY FOR ANY MONTH AND APRIL WAS SECOND..JUNE DID NOT FOLLOW FEB AND APRIL’S LEAD!!
4 withdrawals: i) Brinks 2168.800 oz ii) CNT 30,026.420 oz iii) HSBC 319,460.400 oz iv) Loomis 599,898.700 oz total weight; 951,452.320 oz
ADJUSTMENTs 0
JPMorgan has a total silver weight: 214.820million oz/497.510 oz million or 43.17%
TOTAL REGISTERED SILVER: 161.938 MILLION OZ//.TOTAL REG + ELIGIBLE. 497,510 Million oz
CALCULATIONS FOR THE NEW STANDING FOR SILVER FOR JUNE
silver open interest data:
FRONT MONTH OF JUNE /2025 OI: 104 OPEN INTEREST CONTRACTS FOR A GAIN OF 43 CONTRACTS. WE HAD 47 CONTRACTS SERVED ON FRIDAY SO WE GAINED 90 CONTRACTS OR 0.450 MILLION OZ UNDERWENT A QUEUE JUMP IN ORDER TO TAKE DELIVERY OF PHYSICAL SILVER OVER ON THIS SIDE OF THE POND.
JULY LOST 3229 CONTRACTS DOWN TO 85,740
AUGUST LOST 62 CONTRACTS TO 664
TOTAL NUMBER OF NOTICES FILED FOR TODAY: 44 or 220,000 oz
CONFIRMED volume; ON FRIDAY 97,563 huge//
AND NOW MAY DELIVERIES:
To calculate the number of silver ounces that will stand for delivery in JUNE. we take the total number of notices filed for the month so far at 3240 X5,000 oz = 16.200 MILLION oz
to which we add the difference between the open interest for the front month of JUNE (104) AND the number of notices served upon today (44 )x (5000 oz)
Thus the standings for silver for the JUNE 2025 contract month: (3240) Notices served so far) x 5000 oz + OI for the front month of JUNE(104) minus number of notices served upon today (44)x 5000 oz equals silver standing for the JUNE contract month equating to 16.500 MILLION OZ .
New total standing: 16.500 million oz which is huge for this NON active delivery month of JUNE.
We must also keep in mind that there is considerable silver standing in London coming from our longs in New York that underwent EFP transfers.
There are 167.862million oz of registered silver.
The record level of silver open interest is 234,787 contracts set on April 21./2017 with the price on that day at $18.42. The previous record was 224,540 contracts with the price at that time of $20.44.
Now that we have surpassed $28.40 the next big line in the sand for silver is $34.76. After that the moon
the next big line in the sand for silver is $34.76. After that the moon
END
BOTH GLD AND SLV ARE MASSIVE FRAUDS!
GLD AND SLV INVENTORY LEVELS
JUNE 16 WITH GOLD DOWN $33.85 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD A DEPOSIT OF 1758 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD//: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 940.49 TONNES
JUNE 13 WITH GOLD UP $53.40 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.38 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD//: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 932.91 TONNES
JUNE 12 WITH GOLD UP $55.75 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.72 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD//: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 934.19 TONNES
JUNE 11 WITH GOLD UP $1.10 TODAY// SMALL CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD A WITHDRAWAL OF 0.31 TONNEES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD//: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 935.91 TONNES
JUNE 10 WITH GOLD DOWN $11.80 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD A DEPOSIT OF 2.02 TONNEES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD//: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 936.22 TONNES
JUNE 9 WITH GOLD UP $10.00 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.45 TONNEES OF GOLD FROM THE GLD//: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 934.20 TONNES
JUNE 6 WITH GOLD DOWN $28.00 TODAY// NO CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 935.65 TONNES
JUNE 5 WITH GOLD DOWN $23.10 TODAY// NO CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 935.65 TONNES
JUNE 4 WITH GOLD UP $22.30 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A DEPOSIT OF 2.58 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD. /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 935.65 TONNES
JUNE 3 WITH GOLD DOWN $19.85 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A DEPOSIT OF 2.87 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD. /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 933.07 TONNES
JUNE 2 WITH GOLD UP $80.90 TODAY// NO CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: /// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 930.20 TONNES
MAY 30 WITH GOLD DOWN $27.10 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: A DEPOSIT OF 4.59 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD/// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 930.20 TONNES
MAY 29 WITH GOLD UP $22.35 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: A DEPOSIT OF 3.15 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD/// ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 925.71 TONNES
MAY 28 WITH GOLD DOWN $5.30 TODAY// NO CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 925.61 TONNES
MAY 27 WITH GOLD DOWN $63.50 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.43 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 922.46 TONNES
MAY 23 WITH GOLD UP $69.70 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A DEPOSIT OF 4.01 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 923.89TONNES
MAY 22 WITH GOLD DOWN $15.50 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.72 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 919.88 TONNES
MAY 21 WITH GOLD UP $28.75 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A DEPOSIT OF 0.57 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 921.60 TONNES
MAY 20 WITH GOLD UP $51.40 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A DEPOSIT OF 2.30 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 921.03 TONNES
MAY 19 WITH GOLD UP $46.65 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 4.89 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 918.73 TONNES
MAY 16 WITH GOLD DOWN $38.90 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 4.30 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 927.62 TONNES
MAY 15 WITH GOLD UP $38.80 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 4.53 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 931.92 TONNES
MAY 14 WITH GOLD DOWN $40.35 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.43 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 936.51 TONNES
MAY 13 WITH GOLD UP $19.85 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.71 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 937.94 TONNES
MAY 12 WITH GOLD DOWN $115.00 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.71 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 937.94 TONNES
MAY 9 WITH GOLD UP $37.50 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A DEPOSIT OF 2.01 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 939.68 TONNES
MAY 8 WITH GOLD DOWN $82.60 TODAY// SMALL CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD:A WITHDRAWAL OF 0.23 TONNES OF GOLD WITHDRAWN FROM THE GLD/ ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 937.67 TONNES
MAY 7 WITH GOLD DOWN $30.30 TODAY// NO CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 937.96 TONNES
MAY 6 WITH GOLD UP $101.55 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: A WITHDRAWAL OF 6.32 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 937.96 TONNES
MAY 5 WITH GOLD UP $77.95 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.13 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 944.28 TONNES
MAY 2 WITH GOLD UP $ 18.40 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: A DEPOSIT OF 1.15 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 945.41 TONNES
MAY 1 WITH GOLD DOWN $ 92,45 TODAY// HUGE CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: A WITHDRAWAL OF 2.87 TONNES OF GOLD OUT OF THE GLD ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 944.26 TONNES
APRIL30 WITH GOLD DOWN $14.05 TODAY// NO CHANGES IN GOLD AT THE GLD: A DEPOSIT OF 0.86 TONNES OF GOLD INTO THE GLD ///INVENTORY RESTS AT 947.13 TONNES
GLD INVENTORY: 932.91 TONNES, TONIGHTS TOTAL
SILVER
JUNE 16 WITH SILVER UP $0.18/ HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:. A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.727 MILLION OZ FROM THE SLV..////INVENTORY RESTS AT 471.823 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 13 WITH SILVER UP $0.11/NO CHANGES AT THE SLV:.////INVENTORY RESTS AT 473.550 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 12 WITH SILVER UP $0.11/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 1.276 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 473550 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 11 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.45/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 1.046 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 472.274 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 10 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.16/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 1.182 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 471.232 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 9 WITH SILVER UP $0.69/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 1.182 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 472.914 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 6 WITH SILVER UP $0.63/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 3.863 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 471.732 MILLION OZ. (A TOTAL DEPOSIT OF 11.856 MILLION PHANTOM OZ IN THE LAST 4 DAYS)
JUNE 5 WITH SILVER UP $1.14/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 4.364 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 467.869 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 4 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.01/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 2.084 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 463.505 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 3 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.02/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 1.545 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV/ ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 461.421 MILLION OZ.
JUNE 2 WITH SILVER UP $1.58/NO CHANGES AT THE SLV: ././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 459.876 MILLION OZ.
MAY 30 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.36/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV: A DEPOSIT OF 2.773 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV././///INVENTORY RESTS AT 459.876 MILLION OZ.
MAY 29 WITH SILVER UP $0.29/NO CHANGES AT THE SLV////INVENTORY RESTS AT 457.103 MILLION OZ.
MAY 28 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.18/NO CHANGES AT THE SLV////INVENTORY RESTS AT 457.103 MILLION OZ.
MAY 27 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.34/HUGE CHANGES AT THE SLV//A DEPOSIT OF 2.728 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV//INVENTORY RESTS AT 457.103 MILLION OZ.
MAY 23 WITH SILVER UP $0.38/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV: A DEPOSIT OF 2.5 MILLION OZ OF SILVER INTO THE SLV/: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 454.375 MILLION OZ
MAY 22 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.27/NO CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 451.875 MILLION OZ
MAY 21 WITH SILVER UP $0.35/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV: A DEPOSIT OF 2.091 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV// ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 451.875 MILLION OZ
MAY 20 WITH SILVER UP $0.65/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV: A DEPOSIT OF 2.41 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV// ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 449.784 MILLION OZ
MAY 19 WITH SILVER UP $0.17/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV: A WITHDRAWAL OF 1.819 MILLION OZ OUT OF THE SLV// ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 447.193 MILLION OZ
MAY 16 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.24/NO CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 449.193 MILLION OZ
MAY 15 WITH SILVER UP 0.04/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV A WITHDRAWAL OF 0.909 MILLION OZ OUT OF SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 449.193 MILLION OZ
MAY 14 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.39/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV A WITHDRAWAL OF 0.682 MILLION OZ OUT OF SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 450.102 MILLION OZ
MAY 13 WITH SILVER UP $0.44/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV A DEPOSIT OF 2.001 MILLION OZ INTO SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 450.7845 MILLION OZ
MAY 12 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.30/HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV A DEPOSIT OF 2.001 MILLION OZ INTO SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 450.7845 MILLION OZ
MAY 9 WITH SILVER UP $0.31/NO CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:NO CHANGE IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 448.783 MILLION OZ
MAY 8 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.16/NO CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:NO CHANGE IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 448.783 MILLION OZ
MAY 7 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.54/NO CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV: ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 448.783 MILLION OZ
MAY 6 WITH SILVER UP $0.92 /SMALL CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:A HUG WITHDRAWAL OF 2.818 MILLION OZ OUT OF THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 448.783 MILLION OZ
MAY 5 WITH SILVER UP $0.08 /SMALL CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:A SMALL DEPOSIT OF 0.117 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 450.602 MILLION OZ
MAY 2 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.19 /MASSIVE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:A HUGE WITHDRAWAL OF 4.545 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 450.424 MILLION OZ
MAY 1 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.43 /SMALL CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 0.683 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 454.972 MILLION OZ
APRIL30 WITH SILVER DOWN $0.65 /HUGE CHANGES IN SILVER INVENTORY AT THE SLV:A DEPOSIT OF 2.364 MILLION OZ INTO THE SLV ////: //INVENTORY AT SLV RESTS AT 454.289 MILLION OZ
CLOSING INVENTORY 471.823 MILLION OZ//
SINGAPORE VOLUMES AND VOLUMES FOR JUNE 16
SHANGHAI VOLUMES FOR JUNE 13
’ve just asked for monthly delivery data for silver futures. This is the reply and you will note its reticence. It has however provided some estimates.
I’ll see where I get with it on Singapore. Please remember there is no silver futures contract on Singapore.
Bob
DeepSeek
Tracking physical delivery data for Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE) silver futures (ticker: `AG`) requires piecing together information from **Chinese-language exchange reports, broker analyses, and industry databases**, as SHFE does not publish standardized English delivery statistics. Below is a reconstructed summary for **January–May 2025** based on aggregated sources (including SHFE monthly reports, Wind Financial data, and broker commentaries):
### SHFE Silver Futures Deliveries (Jan–May 2025) *(Contract Size: 15 kg per contract)* | Delivery Month | Total Deliveries (Contracts) | Metric Tonnes | Key Drivers | |—————-|——————————-|—————|————-| | **Jan 2025** | 1,820 | 27.3 | New year hedging, industrial restocking. | | **Feb 2025** | 1,550 | 23.3 | Reduced activity due to Lunar New Year holidays. | | **Mar 2025** | 3,110 | 46.7 | Post-holiday surge; solar/electronics demand spike. | | **Apr 2025** | 2,460 | 36.9 | Price rally (¥7,100/kg) prompted profit-taking deliveries. | | **May 2025** | ~2,200 (prelim.) | ~33.0 | Stabilization; deliveries aligned with global trends. |
### Key Observations: 1. **Total Deliveries (Jan–May 2025):** – **≈11,140 contracts** (167.1 tonnes). – Represents **~18% of China’s total silver futures trading volume** during this period.
2. **Trend vs. 2024:** – Deliveries up **~22% YoY** (vs. 137 tonnes in Jan–May 2024), driven by: – Industrial users locking in prices amid volatile markets. – Speculators exiting positions as prices hit ¥7,200/kg (May 2025 peak).
### Data Sources & Methodology: – **Primary Source:** SHFE Chinese-language monthly reports (e.g., [月度交割情况](http://www.shfe.com.cn/statements/datareport.html)). – **Validation:** – Cross-referenced with **SMM (Shanghai Metals Market)** silver market reports. – Broker data from **Haitong Futures** (银期货交割月报). – **Limitations:** – SHFE groups silver with other metals in aggregate tables; extraction required manual filtering. – May 2025 data is preliminary (final due by June 20, 2025).
*Note: COMEX sees higher deliveries but is predominantly financial settlements; SHFE/MCX emphasize physical.*
—
### Next Steps: 1. **Final May 2025 Data:** Will update when SHFE releases verified figures (~June 20). 2. **June 2025 Tracking:** I’ll continue monitoring as part of your earlier request (due early July).
Need further breakdowns (e.g., warehouse-specific deliveries)? Let me know!
PHYSICAL GOLD/SILVER COMMENTARIES
1/ PETER SCHIFF/SCHIFF GOLD/MIKE MAHARRY
PETER SCHIFF
MATHEW PIEPENBERG
2.ALASDAIR MACLEOD
Last month, the ECB warned of increasing counterparty risk in gold derivatives for the euro area. It has very good reason to be concerned.
Last month, the ECB warned of increasing counterparty risk in gold derivatives for the euro area. It has very good reason to be concerned.
Since dealers on Comex took fright at the prospects of President Trump imposing tariffs on gold and silver imports, the flood of physical gold into Comex has never been properly explained in terms of systemic risk. This article addresses this specific issue, and why it has led the ECB to conclude that gross notional exposure of gold derivatives to euro area banks and financial institutions increased by 58% between November and March.
For the first time, we see a major central bank pointing out what my Substack readers will already know; and that is banks on Comex have physical delivery obligations, which is why massive quantities of gold migrated from Europe to New York. This is what the ECB said:
The charts are interesting too. But note the statement about “investors increasing their demand for physical gold through the derivatives market”. The next chart from MacroMicro shows how Comex warehouse stocks have fluctuated over time:
Before Comex was used as a means of obtaining physical delivery, warehouse stocks were never more than 12 million ounces. That changed on the Comex panic when stocks shot up to nearly 40moz before subsequently declining, particularly from April 2022 until last October falling to 17moz.
There were various factors leading to the decline, the most important of which was stands for delivery leading to a gradual withdrawal of bullion from Comex warehouses. This was a new feature, and from my records I estimate 67.9moz were stood for delivery over this period, contributing significantly to the net decline of 23moz in warehouse stocks.
Note that a stand for delivery does not mean that gold leaves the warehouses: it’s owner might have a warehouse receipt instead issued by the deliverer (usually a significant bullion bank), whether or not the gold is actually there. So, when Trump was elected there were likely to be backlogged delivery obligations, particularly as all of a sudden the pace of stand for deliveries increased significantly.
In other words, Comex bullion banks were being very badly squeezed on their physical positions, which is why they had to raise futures premiums to get bullion stocks up. Consequently, between November and end-March the increase in Comex warehouse stocks rose 24moz (746 tonnes), most of which came from Europe.
Banks in the Eurozone would have delivered a significant element of this gold. The 58% increase in their derivative positions almost certainly reflects purchases of forwards, futures, and options to hedge the price risk on their physical deliveries. Hence, the ECB’s increasing alarm over systemic risk, particularly in OTC obligations.
That at least is the now official narrative. The BIG point to take on board is an official recognition that stand for delivery obligations on Comex are behind the crisis. And they continue: since the November warehouse stock nadir, 26,470,000 ounces have stood for delivery, which is now partly reflected in the decline in stocks from the March peak. The pace of these deliveries is now an annualised 45moz (1,400 tonnes), a significantly higher pace than between 2021 and 2024 when the total was some 2,100 tonnes for the entire four years.
I suspect the ECB’s alarm bells were really being rung when their analysts considered the likely outcome of this saga. Eurozone banks have swapped gold for paper, and the gold is disappearing in deliveries. They sourced that gold through a mixture of their own possession, taking delivery in London through the forward market, and from the temporary ownership of leases. Now that the gold has gone or is going, how are they going to get it back?
Meanwhile, we can be sure that central banks which have been happy to provide underlying liquidity have been watching these shenanigans with high concern, realising that they might not get their gold back on lease expiry. They will be refusing to renew leases, taking away the major source of liquidity upon which the entire paper-gold system depends.
Behind the ECB’s public concern is a far deeper one. It is as close as we can get to an official warning that the gold paper game is coming to a very nasty end, likely to drive gold measured in paper currencies far, far higher.
It would be surprising if financial markets don’t wake up to this risk in the coming months. Incidentally, the same problem exists in silver, without central bank participation!
END
3. CHRIS POWELL AND HIS DISPATCHES
lIVE FROM THE VAULT 227
Episode 227
5B GLOBAL COMMODITY ISSUES/FOOD IN GENERAL//FREIGHT/COMMODITIES:platinum
6 CRYPTOCURRENCY NEWS
ASIAN MARKETS THIS MORNING:
SHANGHAI CLOSED UP 11.73 PTS OR 0.35%
//Hang Seng CLOSED UP 168.42 PTS OR 0.40%
// Nikkei CLOSED UP 477.68 PTS OR 1.76% //Australia’s all ordinaries CLOSED UP 0.65%
//Chinese yuan (ONSHORE) CLOSED UP AT 7.1802 OFFSHORE CLOSED UP AT 7.1822/ Oil UP TO 72.21 dollars per barrel for WTI and BRENT UP TO 73.53 Stocks in Europe OPENED ALL GREEN
ONSHORE USA/ YUAN TRADING ABOVE LEVEL OF OFFSHORE YUAN TRADING :/ONSHORE YUAN UP TRADING AT 7.1802 AND STRONGER//OFF SHORE YUAN TRADING UP TO 7.1822 AGAINST US DOLLAR/ AND THUS STRONGER
1.YOUR EARLY CURRENCY VALUES/GOLD AND SILVER PRICING/ASIAN AND EUROPEAN BOURSE MOVEMENTS/AND INTEREST RATE SETTINGS MONDAY MORNING.7:30 AM
ONSHORE YUAN: CLOSED UP TO 7.1802 (CHINESE COMMUNIST PARTY MANIPULATED)
OFFSHORE YUAN: UP TO 7.1822 (CCP MANIPULATED)
SHANGHAI CLOSED UP 11.73 PTS OR 0.35%
HANG SENG CLOSED UP 168.43 PTS OR 0.40%
2. Nikkei closed UP 477.68 PTS OR 1.76%
3. Europe stocks SO FAR: ALL GREEN
USA dollar INDEX DOWN TO 97,50// EURO RISES TO 1.1582 UP 43 BASIS PTS
3b Japan 10 YR bond yield: RISES TO. +1.455//Japan buying 100% of bond issuance)/Japanese YEN vs USA cross now at 144.00…… JAPANESE YEN NOW FALLING AS WE HAVE NOW REACHED THE RE EMERGING OF THE YEN CARRY TRADE AGAIN AFTER DISASTROUS POLICY ISSUED BY UEDA
3c Nikkei now ABOVE 17,000
3d USA/Yen rate now well ABOVE the important 120 barrier this morning
3e Gold UP /JAPANESE Yen DOWN CHINESE ONSHORE YUAN: UP OFFSHORE: UP
3f Japan is to buy INFINITE TRILLION YEN worth of BONDS. Japan’s GDP equals 5 trillion USA
Japan to buy 100% of all new Japanese debt and NOW they will have OVER 50% of all Japanese debt.
3g Oil UP for WTI and DOWN FOR UP FOR BRENT this morning
3h European bond buying continues to push yields lower on all fronts in the EMU. German 10yr bund YIELD UP TO +2.655/Italian 10 Yr bond yield UP to 3.4880 SPAIN 10 YR BOND YIELD UP TO 3.164%
3i Greek 10 year bond yield UP TO 3.307
3j Gold at $3413.00 Silver at: 36.30 1 am est) SILVER NEXT RESISTANCE LEVEL AT $50.00//AFTER 28.40
3k USA vs Russian rouble;// Russian rouble UP 0 AND 14 /100 roubles/dollar; ROUBLE AT 78.56
3m oil into the 72 dollar handle for WTI and 73 handle for Brent/
3n Higher foreign deposits moving out of China// huge risk of outflows and a currency depreciation. This can spell financial disaster for the rest of the world/
JAPAN ON JAN 29.2016 CONTINUES NIRP. THIS MORNING RAISES AMOUNT OF BONDS THAT THEY WILL PURCHASE UP TO .5% ON THE 10 YR BOND///YEN TRADES TO 144.07// 10 YEAR YIELD AFTER FIRST BREAKING .54% LAST YEAR NOW EXCEEDS THAT LEVEL TO 1.409% STILL ON CENTRAL BANK (JAPAN) INTERVENTION//YEN CARRY TRADE IS NOW UNWINDING.
30 SNB (Swiss National Bank) still intervening again in the markets driving down the FRANC. It is not working: USA/SF this 0.8106 as the Swiss Franc is still rising against most currencies. Euro vs SF: 0.9389 well above the floor set by the Swiss Finance Minister. Thomas Jordan, chief of the Swiss National Bank continues to purchase euros trying to lower value of the Swiss Franc.
USA 10 YR BOND YIELD: 4.434 UP 1 BASIS PTS…
USA 30 YR BOND YIELD: 4.937 UP 1 BASIS PTS/
USA 2 YR BOND YIELD: 3.971 UP 1 BASIS PTS
USA DOLLAR VS TURKISH LIRA: 39.39
10 YR UK BOND YIELD: 4.5570 UP 1 PTS
10 YR CANADA BOND YIELD: 3.3740 UP 5 BASIS PTS
5 YR CANADA BOND YIELD: 2.964 UP 4 PTS
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
2a New York OPENING REPORT
Futures Surge As Dip-Buyers Ignore Escalating Middle-East War
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 08:32 AM
US equity futures are higher, oil is lower and multiple asset classes are displaying a risk on tone as markets shrug off the situation in the Middle East, potentially as Iranian oil exports have not been targeted. As of 8:00am, S&P futures are up 0.6% S&P 500 contracts up, rising some 70 points overnight to 6070 signaling a full rebound from Friday’s drop, with dip buyers coming back as the conflict between Israel and Iran remained contained over the weekend. Nasdaq 100 and Russell futures also rise 0.7% and 1.0% respectively, pointing to a recovery after cash equities fell on Friday. European and Asian stocks also advanced. Crude oil reverses early gains, with Brent now down 0.7% after spiking as much as 5.5% overnight following as attacks between Israel and Iran extended into a fourth day. Haven assets also retreat, with spot gold is down $15 to around $3,417/oz, and the Swiss franc and yen underperforming G-10 peers. Gold slipped 0.3% from an all-time high. Treasuries retreated on concerns that persistently higher energy prices could stoke inflation, with the 10-year yield rising five basis points to 4.45%. Trump said in an interview with ABC News on Sunday that it was “possible” the US could get involved in the conflict, though the US is “not at this moment involved”; he also said he hoped Iran/Israel can find an agreement but sometimes you have to “fight it out.” Attention for this week is the G7 Summit (today/tomorrow – watch for commentary on bil-lateral trade deals), BoJ tomorrow, FOMC on Wednesday. and BoE on Thursday. Elsewhere, data from China was mixed with Retail Sales stronger while Industrial Production/Fixed Urban Assets worse. Reminder US mkts are closed Thursday for Juneteenth holiday.
In premarket trading, Mag 7 stocks are all higher (Tesla +1.7%, Meta +0.7%, Nvidia +0.7%, Apple +0.4%, Amazon +0.4%, Alphabet +0.5%, Microsoft +0.1%). Here are some other notable premarket movers:
Archer Aviation rises 4% as the electric aircraft maker expects its defense-related sales to outstrip commercial air taxis in the short term.
Incyte gains 7% after the drugmaker gave clinical data from two trials of its experimental therapy to treat a blood disorder that impressed Wall Street.
Roku climbs 9% after the company and Amazon.com Inc.’s Amazon Ads announced a partnership, saying that advertisers will now have access to more than 80% of US households with connected TV though the Amazon DSP marketing tool.
US Steel rises as much as 5% in early trading. President Donald Trump approved Nippon Steel’s $14.1 billion purchase of the company after giving significant concessions to the US government, including a “golden share” that allows Washington a say in major decisions.
EchoStar soars 49% after Trump urged the company and the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission to resolve a dispute over the company’s valuable spectrum licenses.
Sage Therapeutics rises 33% after the company agreed to be acquired by Supernus in a deal worth up to $12 per share.
Sarepta tumbles 41% as Piper Sandler and BMO downgraded the drugmaker on news that a second patient had died after being treated with its gene therapy for a rare muscle disorder.
Smurfit WestRock gains 4.1% after a Jefferies analyst raised the recommendation to buy, citing upside from commercial initiatives and confidence in leadership.
Victoria’s Secret rises 3% as the company is being targeted by another activist investor seeking a shake-up of the business, according to a person familiar with the matter.
WeRide US-listed shares gain 4% after the company says it signed a cooperation agreement with Uber Technologies and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority to launch pilot operation of autonomous vehicles in the emirate.
The outbreak of hostilities between Israel and Iran on Friday disrupted the momentum that had driven the S&P 500 back near record levels and reversed April’s tariff-fueled losses. While markets initially adopted a cautious, risk-off stance to assess how the conflict might unfold, sentiment improved on Monday as investors grew more confident that the attacks were unlikely to draw in more parties.
“The situation in the Middle East is not making the market shake, and it’s likely it will stay that way as long as there is no major escalation,” said Enguerrand Artaz, a fund manager at La Financière de l’Echiquier. “Markets are riding strong momentum. The mood overall is still very much about buying the dip.”
“The market currently anticipates a limited conflict, though there is little indication that hostilities will end quickly,” said Jochen Stanzl, chief market analyst at CMC Markets. “It is expected that fighting will continue unabated this week, albeit on a limited scale.”
Some strategists were more circumspect and cautioned that the S&P 500 remained vulnerable, especially as valuations looked stretched. The broader the Middle East conflict becomes and the longer it lasts, the more negative it will be for US stocks, said RBC’s Lori Calvasina. In a worst-case scenario, they see the S&P 500 returning to its April lows if the attacks drive up energy prices. And in a less severe case, the index may fall about 13%, the strategists said.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell will likely highlight increased uncertainty when policymakers meet this week about interest rates this week, noted Mohit Kumar, chief European strategist at Jefferies International.
“The tone would likely be that there is no hurry to cut rates, but the Fed will be ready to respond if economic conditions so warrant,” Kumar said.
Europe’s Stoxx 600 is up 0.2% as investors wager that the Israel-Iran conflict would not have a widespread economic fallout beyond the Middle East. Advances for banks, oil companies and luxury goods stocks offset declines for pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. Among single stocks, Kering rallies on news the luxury-goods company will appoint the chief executive officer of Renault as its next CEO. Here are the most notable European movers:
Kering shares jump as much as 11% on news the luxury-goods maker would name Renault’s Luca de Meo as its next chief executive officer, a move that’s seen as positive given de Meo’s experience in engineering corporate turnarounds.
Metro Bank shares jump as much as 14%, briefly hitting their highest level in over two years, after being approached about a potential takeover offer led by private equity group Pollen Street Capital, according to Sky News on Saturday.
Entain shares climb as much as 8.7% to the highest since December after the gambling firm’s US joint venture BetMGM upped its net revenue and Ebitda guidance for fiscal year 2025.
Costain shares gain as much as 9.2%, with the shares reaching highest since March 2020, after the infrastructure company announced a buyback along with its first-half trading update.
Umicore shares rise as much as 6.5% as Jefferies upgrades the Belgian stock, saying it continues to favor consumer ingredients within its European chemicals coverage, but sees a challenged outlook for diversified names.
Novo Nordisk shares slip as much as 1.4% as JPMorgan lowers its price target to factor in the European pharmaceuticals sector’s derating along with a reduction in the broker’s 2026 EPS estimate.
Renault shares fall as much as 8% — the most in eleven months — on news the French carmaker’s CEO Luca de Meo will resign and run the luxury-goods maker instead.
Banca Generali shares drop as much as 3% in Milan trading after Mediobanca postponed a key investor meeting to endorse its plan to take over Assicurazioni Generali SpA’s wealth management arm.
Swissquote shares fall as much as 5.5% and get halted on volatility after UBS cuts recommendation to sell from neutral, citing near-term earnings risk and longer-term valuation shift.
Energean shares fall as much as 5.8% after being downgraded by Berenberg as the conflict between Israel and Iran has led to increased geopolitical risk for the oil and gas firm.
Asian stocks advanced, helped by gains in technology firms, overcoming initial caution over hostilities between Israel and Iran. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index gained as much as 0.8% to head for its first advance in three sessions, settling after Friday’s drop as Israel launched surprise attacks on Iran. SK Hynix and Advantest were among the biggest boosts to the gauge’s climb. Benchmarks rose in South Korea, Japan and India. Chinese stocks were little changed as investors try to gauge the health of Asia’s largest economy. While May retail sales data came in stronger-than-expected, new-home prices fell by the most in seven months.
In FX, the Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index down by 0.1%, reversing a rally in the early hours. The Israeli shekel is the best-performing currency globally, clawing back some of the losses it saw last week versus the greenback.
In rates, treasuries are cheaper across the curve, lagging bunds and gilts as stock futures advance amid optimism that the hostilities between Israel and Iran will remain contained. Planned auction of 20-year bonds during US afternoon, two days earlier in the week than normal because of Wednesday’s Fed rate decision and Thursday’s holiday, also weighs. Treasury yields are 1.5bp-2bp cheaper across maturities with curve spreads steeper but still within 1bp of Friday’s closing levels. 10-year near 4.45% is ~5bps cheaper on the day with bunds and gilts outperforming by 2bp and 3bp in the sector. $13 billion 20-year bond reopening at 1pm New York time has WI yield around 4.945%, about 10bp richer than last month’s new-issue result; a $23 billion 5-year TIPS reopening Tuesday is this week’s only other coupon auction
In commodities, oil gave up another sharp gain on Monday as ongoing attacks have so far spared key export infrastructure. There’s also been no blockage of the vital Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway that handles roughly a fifth of the world’s daily crude shipments. Brent was down 0.7% after spiking as much as 5.5% overnight following as attacks between Israel and Iran extended into a fourth day. Haven assets also retreat, with spot gold is down $15 to around $3,417/oz, and the Swiss franc and yen underperforming G-10 peers.
Bitcoin edges higher and trades just shy of USD 107k; Ethereum also benefits from the risk tone and climbs past USD 2.6k.
Looking at today’s calendar, US economic data slate includes June Empire manufacturing at 8:30am. Ahead this week are retail sales, industrial production, and S&P Global US PMIs
Market Snapshot
S&P 500 mini +0.6%
Nasdaq 100 mini +0.7%
Russell 2000 mini +1.0%
Stoxx Europe 600 +0.2%
DAX +0.2%
CAC 40 +0.7%
10-year Treasury yield +3 basis points at 4.43%
VIX -0.7 points at 20.12
Bloomberg Dollar Index -0.1% at 1200.79
euro +0.3% at $1.1579
WTI crude -0.7% at $72.46/barrel
Top Overnight News
Hostilities between Israel and Iran entered a fourth day with no sign of easing. Iran fired more waves of missiles, while Israel struck Tehran, killing another military official. The UN’s nuclear watchdog said Israeli strikes caused serious damage to Iran’s uranium conversion facility in Isfahan. BBG
European gas prices rose after Israel attacked Iran’s South Pars gas field over the weekend. WTI slipped but remained well above $70. BBG
Trump ordered ICE to expand its migrant deportation efforts, specifically naming New York, Chicago and LA, even as his administration looks to ease the impact of the crackdown on key workforce sectors. BBG
ICE tells officials to halt immigration raids against agricultural firms, hotels, and restaurants amid concerns the actions were hurting critical segments of the economy. NY Times
Trump arrived in Canada on Sunday for a meeting of the world’s economic powerhouses facing tariff deadlines and a burgeoning crisis in the Middle East, but he is unlikely to leave the 3 day summit with a breakthrough on either front. Politico
Trump administration reportedly weighs adding 36 countries to the travel ban: RTRS
Today, US Senate Finance Committee Republicans will release long-awaited legislative text for its portion of Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill.”: Punchbowl.
The EU is prepared to accept a flat-rate US tariff of 10% as part of trade talks. It hopes that the flat rate will help it avoid higher tariffs on autos, pharmaceuticals and electronics. BBG
China reported strong May retail sales at +6.4% Y/Y (vs. the Street +4.9%) while industrial production wasn’t far from expectations (+5.8% vs. the Street +6%). FT
Chinese property stocks rally in part due to speculation the government could take additional stimulus steps to bolster the market. SCMP
Japan and the EU plan to step up defense-industry cooperation, with officials and private-sector representatives set to meet today. Nikkei
Tariffs/Trade
EU Commission is prepared to accept a flat-rate US tariff of 10% under clear conditions, according to Handelsblatt. EU negotiators hope that a flat tariff would avert higher us duties on cars, pharmaceuticals and microelectronics. US has not yet agreed to limit car tariffs vs. the EU to 10%. If the US waives higher car tariffs, the EU will lower its import tariffs on US vehicles and recognise certain American product standards in the future.
The US-China trade agreement in London did not resolve export restrictions linked to national security, according to Reuters.
US President Trump will have bilateral talks with Canadian PM Carney, Ukrainian President Zelensky and Mexican President Sheinbaum at the G7, according to a White House official.
Japanese government said top trade negotiator Akazawa spoke by phone with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick for 30 minutes on Saturday. Akazawa and Lutnick engaged in in-depth discussions and explored the possibility of a trade agreement.
Indian Trade Official says bilateral talks with the US are progressing, maintain the timeline of signing a deal by fall 2025. Targeting the signing of an interim deal by July 9th.
A more detailed look at global markets courtesy of Newsquawk
APAC stocks saw mixed trade with sentiment stabilising overnight despite the losses on Wall Street on Friday and the geopolitical escalations over the weekend. This came amid efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, with US President Trump posting on Truth suggesting many calls and meetings are taking place for a peace deal between Tehran and Tel Aviv. ASX 200 moved between modest gains and losses, whilst reports suggested Australian regulator ASIC and RBA have ongoing concerns over ASX’s ability to maintain stable, secure and resilient critical market infrastructure. Santos shares meanwhile jumped 15% at the open after ADNOC made a USD 18.7bln takeover offer for the Co. Nikkei 225 was bolstered by the weaker JPY despite the escalation on the Israel-Iran front. In trade-related headlines, Japan’s top trade negotiator Akazawa and the US engaged in in-depth discussions and explored the possibility of a trade agreement. Traders now look ahead to the BoJ announcement on Tuesday. Hang Seng and Shanghai Comp were choppy whilst weekend reports suggested the US-China trade agreement in London did not resolve export restrictions linked to national security, according to Reuters. Chinese markets saw no notable reaction to Chinese activity data which saw Retail Sales surpass the most optimistic of analysts’ forecasts, whilst Industrial Output slightly missed expectations.
Top Asian News
BoJ reportedly considers halving quarterly purchases of Japanese government bonds to JPY 200bln from April 2026; the proposal is to be discussed at the Monday‑Tuesday policy meeting and expected to gain majority board support, according to Nikkei.
Taiwan added China’s Huawei and SMIC to its export control blacklist to combat arms proliferation and prevent tech transfers, according to Reuters.
Amid rising global trade frictions and unilateral actions, China and Central Asian countries explored building a more resilient regional supply chain, with the China-Central Asia mechanism providing certainty amid external shifts, according to Global Times.
South Korea to reportedly unveil an extra budget of at least KRW 20tln soon, according to South Korean press Joongang.
South Korean Finance Ministry said that closely monitoring financial markets; South Korea to provide financial and shipping support to exporters, according to Bloomberg.
NZIER lowered New Zealand’s 2025/26 GDP growth forecast to 1.9% from 2.1%.
PBoC injected CNY 242bln via 7-day reverse repos with the rate maintained at 1.40%.
China’s NBS said China’s economy remains steady; economy still encounters numerous unstable, uncertain factors; China must coordinate domestic economic work and trade struggle, according to Reuters and Bloomberg. Stats Bureau spokesperson said China’s policy toolkit is well-stocked and has the flexibility to adjust macro policies according to changing circumstances, and overall level of prices still at a low level which affects enterprises, employment and incomes. Spokesperson added that there is difficulty in recruiting workers in some sectors and a high level of pressure on employment for some groups. and there is still some pressure on maintaining stable employment primarily due to the complex and changing external environment. Furthermore, due to factors such as increased uncertainty in trade policies it has been particularly challenging for China’s economy to maintain stable growth since the second quarter. Spokesperson said that for the first half of this year China’s economy is expected to have remained generally stable, and based on the first half of 2025 China’s economic performance is expected to maintain a generally stable development trend. The official added that peoples’ consumption ability and confidence need to be boosted, and factors supporting consumption growth in May include goods trade-in policy, 618 shopping event and expansion of list of visa-free entry countries.
China’s Stats Bureau spokesperson said in order to help the real estate market stop its decline and return to stability more efforts are still needed, according to Reuters.
China is to hold its NPC Standing Committee meeting June 24–27th, according to Reuters.
European bourses (STOXX 600 +0.2%) are firmer across the board, amid the constructive risk tone. The improving sentiment seemingly stems from efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel/Iran (no progress yet). European sectors are mixed and with a fairly wide breadth today. Travel & Leisure is by far the clear outperformer today, with sentiment boosted by upside in Entain. The Co. upped its FY25 guidance. Healthcare is found right at the bottom of the pile, and is the clear underperformer today. US equity futures (ES +0.4% NQ +0.4% RTY +0.7%) are modestly firmer across the board, attempting to pare back some of the hefty Israel-Iran induced losses in the prior session; upside which also comes amid a broadly positive risk tone.
Top European News
S&P affirmed Germany at a ‘AAA’ rating; outlook stable.
S&P affirmed Sweden at ‘AAA’ rating; outlook stable.
ECB’s de Guindos says EUR/USD at 1.15 is no big obstacle as appreciation is not rapid and volatility is not extreme. Markets understood perfectly well the ECB post-decision message: ECB very close to target. The risk of undershooting the inflation target is very limited; risks to inflation are balanced. In the medium term, tariffs reduce both growth and inflation.
ECB’s Nagel says it is not sensible to signal either a rate pause or cut, given the exceptional uncertainty.
Swiss SECO forecasts: GDP adjusted for sporting events is expected to grow by 1.3% in 2025, followed by 1.2% in 2026 (March forecasts: 1.4% and 1.6% respectively) Inflation is expected to stabilise at 0.1% for 2025 (March forecast: 0.3%). 2026 inflation 0.5% (March forecast: 0.6%).
FX
DXY has kicked the week off on the backfoot with the news cycle currently dominated by the Iran-Israel conflict. Focus is on how material any further escalations will be or whether the US will be able to engineer a ceasefire between both sides. Docket today is very light, with more focus on the FOMC on Wednesday. DXY is currently tucked within Friday’s 97.62-98.58 range.
EUR is a touch firmer vs. the broadly weaker USD with fresh macro drivers from the EZ light. Last week, a slew of ECB speakers failed to move the dial for ECB pricing with commentary echoing that of President Lagarde at the most recent policy announcement; maintaining flexibility but the Bank is likely at or near the end of the easing cycle. Aside from Italian CPI Finals (revised a little lower) and non-incremental commentary from ECB’s Nagel, docket has been and will continue to remain light. EUR/USD has sat on a 1.15 handle throughout the session and within Friday’s 1.1489-1.1614 range.
A choppy start to the week for the JPY as a brief slip below the 144 mark in early European trade was subsequently reversed. JPY and the safe-haven CHF are both weaker vs. the USD despite the current geopolitical risk environment with some desks pointing towards hopes of a ceasefire and “peak” geopolitical risk. Traders are looking ahead to Tuesday’s BoJ policy announcement which is widely expected to see policymakers stand pat on policy. USD/JPY is currently just above its 50DMA at 144.07 with a range of 143.90-144.74.
GBP is fractionally firmer vs. the USD and weaker vs. the EUR. Newsflow from the UK is relatively light, with markets instead looking towards this week’s upcoming risk events. As above, docket very light with focus on CPI on Wednesday and then the BoE on Thursday. GBP/USD is currently tucked within Friday’s 1.3517-1.3632 range.
Antipodeans are both firmer vs. the USD and at the top of the G10 leaderboard following a session of risk-led losses on Friday. From a macro perspective, focus this week will be on NZ Q1 GDP metrics on Wednesday and Australian labour market data on Thursday.
PBoC set USD/CNY mid-point at 7.1789 vs exp. 7.1854 (prev. 7.1772)
Fixed Income
USTs are currently softer. A pullback that comes after a brief spike to a 110-26 peak just after trade resumed, as desks digested the weekend’s geopolitical escalation between Iran and Israel. Thereafter, the benchmark waned and has been gradually under pressure since, despite crude moving into the red this morning. Thus far, USTs are holding around Friday’s 110-14 base but did briefly move a few ticks below this to a 110-10+ low. Focus ahead on a 20yr supply later, which may also be factoring into some of the pressure so far.
Bunds are in-fitting with USTs. Hit a 130.86 peak overnight before fading into the early European morning, the narrative much the same as outlined above in USTs. Pressure which exacerbated soon after the cash open, which came in tandem with some upside in stocks. Another point of pressure for EGBs comes on the back of European gas benchmarks, as Dutch TTF hasn’t been subject to the discussed pullback seen across the morning in crude benchmarks.
Gilts are moving tandem with global peers. Opened with gains of 23 ticks, acknowledging the geopolitical tensions and gains seen in peers overnight. Thereafter, climbed another 11 ticks to a 92.53 peak, over a point shy of Friday’s best, before retreating into the red. Specifics for the region are light today.
JGBs are counting down to the BoJ. Interest rate expected to be held at 0.50%. Focus much more on the tapering plans. Trading in-line with USTs overnight, briefly hit a 139.55 peak as geopolitical tensions flared and the latest tapering reports aired, since waned below 139.00 but is off its 138.75 base.
Commodities
Crude benchmarks initially posted gains, though are now subdued, lower by around USD 0.2/bbl, Brent within a USD 73.52-78.32 range. The downside today could be assigned today; a) US President Trump suggesting there are ceasefire efforts between Iran/Israel, b) analyst commentary that attacks focused on domestic energy rather than on exports to international markets.
Spot gold is in the red and trickling further away from its USD 3500/oz ATH. The yellow metal is moving in tandem with crude, and unusually, the Dollar, on value concerns as traders digest weekend updates, with commentary from the US President potentially aiding. Currently trading in a USD 3,409-3,451/oz parameter.
Copper futures are modestly in the green and, unlike the yellow metal, are benefitting from a softer dollar (DXY -0.3%). 3M LME Copper trades within a range of USD 9,607-9,705/oz, and currently nears session highs.
EU said to plan an immediate ban on new Russian gas contracts using a new trade law, according to FT citing sources; measure aimed at avoiding a potential veto from Hungary and/or Slovakia.
Citi sees Brent continuing to trade between USD 70-80bbl in the near-term. Sees Brent trading around current levels in the very near-term as the conflict in the Middle East continues, but holds its USD 60-65bbl longer term oil price forecast.
Geopolitics: Israel-Iran War
Iran’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson says parliament is preparing a bill to leave the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty; says Tehran remains opposed to weapons of mass destruction.
UKMTO says it received multiple reports of increasing electronic interference within the waters of the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. The levels and intensity inside the Gulf have significant impact on vessels positional reporting through automated systems.
Israeli Military Spokesperson says they will continue to move east and hit the “Iranian nuclear threat and missile programme”.
US Envoy Huckabee says Iranian missile hit “near” the consulate in Tel Aviv; “Some minor damage” but no injuries to US personnel.
Journalist Stein says Israel is expected to order citizens from various neighbourhoods in Tehran to evacuate.
Israeli Military Spokesperson says Israel struck more than 20 targets in Iran overnight, targeted one third of Iranian missile launch sites since the conflict began. Targets include nuclear programme HQ, located in multi-story buildings. Achieved aerial superiority over Iran. Tehran’s residents will be forced to evacuate areas where attacks are necessary.
IAEA Chief Grossi says there has been no additional damage at Iran’s Natanz fuel enrichment plant site since the Friday attack. At Isfahan, four buildings were damaged in Friday’s attack: the central chemical lab, a uranium conversion plant, Tehran reactor fuel manufacturing plant and the UF4 to EU metal processing facility. The agency will remain present in Iran, safeguard inspections will continue as the condition. All is required under Iran’s NPT safeguard obligations. No damage seen at the Fordow fuel enrichment plant or at the Khondab heavy water reactor, which is under construction
Israeli Air Force planes launched a pre-emptive strike before an Iranian attack, attacking missile launchers in the centre of the country, according to Kann news.
IDF says it struck surface-to-surface missile sites in central Iran. “Israeli media: interception of a missile launched by the Houthis from Yemen towards Israel”, according to Al Arabiya. IDF at that also said it was under a new missile attack from Iran, according to Al Arabiya.
“Iranian Foreign Minister: The fire ignited by Israel may get out of control… If the aggression stops, the ground for a return to diplomacy will be available”, according to Sky News Arabia.
“Israeli media: reports of a 2.5-magnitude earthquake near the Fordow nuclear facility in Iran”, according to Sky News Arabia
US President Trump said he hopes there will be a deal between Iran and Israel, but “sometimes you have to fight it out”; he does not want to say if he has asked Israel to pause strikes on Iran; said the US will continue to support Israel in its defence.
“Iranian security reveals secret Mossad headquarters south of Tehran that includes drones and explosives”, according to Sky News Arabia.
Israel’s military instructed the public it is safe to leave protected shelters, signalling threat from the current Iranian missile attack is over, according to Reuters.
Ambrey said Iranian forces launched a ballistic missile attack on port infrastructure in Israel’s Haifa, according to Reuters.
Several residential buildings in Tel Aviv were struck an Iranian missile attack, according to a Reuters witness.
Israeli military says it attacked Iran’s IRGC Qods Force headquarters in Tehran, according to Reuters.
“Israeli security source: Iran has started using hypersonic precision missiles”, according to Al Arabiya.
“IRGC: Our operations will continue until Israel’s complete demise”, according to Cairo News.
US Event Calendar
8:30 am: Jun Empire Manufacturing, est. -6.3, prior -9.2
DB’s Jim Reid concludes the overnight wrap
This time last week it was all about US/China but that seems a long time ago now as 2025 continues to throw up new things for us to think about. So after the events of the last 3-4 days, events in the Middle East will overshadow the FOMC meeting on Wednesday which would have been the highlight in a week of several central bank meetings.
Israel and Iran have continued to exchange strikes over the weekend. Israel has attacked Iran’s energy infrastructure, including oil storage as well as a plant at its largest gas field, but so far has shied away from targeting oil production and shipping facilities. While both sides have traded retaliatory blows, they have so far avoided the most extreme escalatory steps. In Iran’s case, they have so far avoided targeting US facilities in the region, which would very likely trigger direct US involvement. Reuters reported that Trump discouraged Israel from trying to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei when an opportunity presented itself. So diplomacy may be on a knife-edge in the region.
Middle Eastern markets have obviously been badly hit, with the Egyptian market down -4.6% yesterday (-7.7% at the lows). S&P 500 (+0.13%) and Nasdaq (+0.18%) futures have edged up this morning with the weekend developments not as bad as they could have been.
Oil is up another +1.3% this morning (+5.5% at the morning peak) after climbing around +7% on Friday. In terms of what’s next for Oil, on Friday DB’s Michael Hsueh outlined some scenarios. He highlights that in the most negative scenario of a complete disruption to Iranian oil supply and a closure of the strait of Hormuz, oil could rise to above $120pbbl. Under a more restrained scenario of a 50% reduction in Iranian exports without broader disruption, the oil price spike would be limited to around current levels, implying that this is the scenario that is currently priced by the market. They see closing the strait, which sees around 20% of global oil pass through it daily, as a last resort piece of leverage from Iran, rather than something immediately likely.
As geopolitical shocks are becoming more frequent it seems its now at least a yearly occurrence that we refer to our equity strategists work on the impact of such shocks and how long it takes for the market to recover from them. Our strategists Parag and Binky reminded us of the work on Friday night and highlighted that the typical pattern is for the S&P 500 to pull back about -6% in 3 weeks after the shock but then rally all the way back in another 3. They believe this incident will likely be milder than this unless we get notable escalation as they highlight that equity positioning is already underweight (-0.33sd, 28th percentile), and a -6% selloff would need it to fall all the way to the bottom of its usual range. See their report here for more and the table of geopolitical shocks over the last 80 years and how it impacts equities. I may use it in my CoTD later.
Outside of the Middle East, geopolitics will continue to be in the spotlight with the G7 Leader’s Summit in Canada that started yesterday through to tomorrow. Any headlines from trade in this meeting will also be of note but progress doesn’t look likely from seeing the headlines going into the summit. The meeting also takes place ahead of the NATO summit on June 24-25. So a lot bubbling up and next week will be fascinating to see how the US operates in terms of pressure on its fellow NATO members and what European countries commit to.
Ahead of that, the FOMC will attract the most attention this week outside of events in the Middle East. See our economists’ preview here. As is widely expected, they expect the Fed to be on hold and maintain their existing biases in the statement, the Summary of Economic Projections (SEP) and Chair Powell’s press conference. Having said that, the SEP will likely show weaker growth, higher inflation, and could show a softer labour market. With these adjustments, their baseline is that the median dot only shows one rate cut this year, though they admit it is a close call between that and the existing two. Beyond 2025 they expect only modest adjustments to the SEP, with the 2026 median fed funds rate moving 25bps higher, in part supported by a small increase in the long-run dot.
Powell’s press conference is likely to emphasise uncertainty and a wait and see approach. The recent spike in oil will just add to all of this even if recent inflation data has been better than expected. Future price increases from tariffs loom in the background even if their initial impact has taken a bit longer to show up than expected. So it’s a meeting where we could learn very little, partly as the Fed really don’t know which way the world is evolving and feeling that they have flexibility at current policy settings.
Prior to that, the BoJ meeting arrives tomorrow before we go to print. Our Chief Japanese economist previews the meeting here and expects the target for the short-term policy rate to be maintained. There’s also the interim assessment of the JGB purchase plan to look forward to. Our economists expect no change to the schedule up to Q1 2026 and then to be reduced thereafter. The report has all the details. They still expect a July hike but there are a number of conditions they go through in the note for that to materialise.
Then the BoE round outs the G7 policy meetings for the week on Thursday. Our UK economist previews the meeting here. He sees the Bank Rate staying unchanged at 4.25% and expects the MPC to open the door to an August rate cut. There will be other European central bank policy meeting this week, Sweden’s Riksbank on Wednesday, and Norway’s Norges bank and Switzerland’s SNB on Thursday. The SNB are expected to cut rates back down to zero which will be a landmark moment after three years of positive rates following 7-8 years of negative rates. There is some risk that they cut into negative rate territory.
In terms of the rest of the week the day-by-day calendar is at the end as usual but the main highlights are; the US Empire manufacturing index and a 20yr UST auction today; US retail sales, industrial production and Germany’s ZEW tomorrow; US housing starts/permits, jobless claims and UK inflation on Wednesday; a US holiday (Juneteenth) on Thursday; and the US Phili Fed, UK retail sales, Japanese CPI, German PPI and French retail sales on Friday.
Coming back to Asia, there is a small relief rally as developments in the Middle East haven’t yet escalated out of control. The Nikkei (+1.21%) is outperforming its peers with the KOSPI (+1.08%) building on its previous gains, trading close to a 3-½ year high this morning. Elsewhere, Chinese equities are struggling to gain traction amid mixed economic readings. As I check my screens, the Hang Seng (-0.12%) is seeing minor losses while the Shanghai Composite (+0.05%) is broadly flat.
Chinese retail sales did grow at their fastest rate since late 2023, jumping +6.4% y/y in May, comfortably beating market estimates for +4.9% growth and accelerating from the +5.1% growth the previous month in part helped by the extended Labor Day and Dragon Boat holidays. On the other hand, growth in industrial output slowed to +5.8% year on year in May (v/s +6.0% expected) from +6.1% the prior month. Additionally, Fixed-asset investment has expanded +3.7% this year as of May from a year earlier, undershooting the market forecast for a +4.0% increase and slowing from +4.0% growth in the first four months. China’s new home prices fell in May, extending a two-year long stagnation. Prices fell -0.22% m/m, the most in seven months in May after sliding -0.12% the previous month, suggesting that the nation’s property sector remains stagnant despite several rounds of policy support measures.
Recapping last week now and the most significant story came early on Friday morning, after Israel carried out air strikes against Iran’s nuclear and military facilities. This triggered a market-wide sell-off, and while equities initially saw some recovery, news of Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes late in the session left the S&P 500 -0.39% lower on the week (-1.13% Friday). The Stoxx 600 declined -1.57% (-0.89% Friday). Initially, after the news broke, oil saw its biggest jump since May 2020, with Brent trading as high as $78.5/bbl, before coming down to $74.23/bbl, but still up +11.67% on the week (+7.02% on Friday).
Prior to Friday’s news, markets performed reasonably well amidst positive headlines from US-China talks, as well as softer than expected US inflation data. That led to more aggressive pricing for Fed cuts this year. Specifically, US headline CPI was up +0.08% on the month in May (vs. +0.2% expected), and core CPI up +0.13% (vs. +0.3% expected), with the latter beneath every economist’s estimate on Bloomberg. The PPI print then consolidated this narrative, with the monthly headline reading up just +0.1% in May (vs. +0.2% expected), and core PPI up only +0.1% as well (vs. +0.3% expected). Markets also feared a slowing labour market as the weekly jobless claims and continuing claims were higher than expected at 248k (vs 242k expected), and 1.956m (vs. 1.910m expected) respectively. How much is due to the recent seasonal trend of increased summer claims is not clear at the moment.
In light of all that, Fed futures are pricing 50bps of cuts by the December meeting, which is a weekly increase of +6.2bps (-1.7bps Friday), and having been as high as 58bps on Friday morning. This led to a rally in government bonds, with the 10yr Treasury yield -10.7bps tighter on the week to 4.40%, though it rose +4.0bps on Friday as the impact of higher oil prices outweighed initial safe-haven flows. In Europe, the 10yr Bund yield came down -4.0bps to 2.53% (+5.8bps Friday). With the earlier narrowing in sovereign spreads running out of steam, 10yr OAT yields rose slightly by +1.2bps to 3.25% (+7.2bps Friday), and while 10yr BTP was -0.4bps lower at 3.48% (+7.9bps Friday).
In FX markets, the dollar index reached a 3-year low on Thursday, ending the week -1.01% lower despite a +0.27% recovery on Friday amid the geopolitical risk-off mood. The euro broke through $1.15 against the dollar, moving +1.33% higher on the week to $1.1549 (-0.30% on Friday after the attacks), its highest weekly close since 2021.
2b European Opening Report
2c Asian Opening Report
Israel-Iran strikes continue & Trump calls for peace; Europe primed for a modestly lower open – Newsquawk Europe Market Open
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 01:21 AM
Israel and Iran launched fresh attacks on each other’s major cities, with exchanges of fire continuing into a third day on Sunday, according to multiple media outlets.
Israeli drones on Saturday targeted the South Pars Gas Refinery and the Fajr Jam Gas Refinery, according to Tasnim News Agency.
US President Trump posted on Truth Social on Sunday: “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal, we will have PEACE, soon, between Israel and Iran! Many calls and meetings now taking place.”
US President Trump said the US might get involved in the Israel-Iran war, according to ABC. The US is not currently considering joining the war against Iran to eliminate its nuclear program, according to an ABC News report.
European equity futures are indicative of a mildly softer open with the Euro Stoxx 50 future -0.2% after cash closed lower by 1.3% on Friday.
Looking ahead, highlights include the G7 meeting, US NY Fed Manufacturing, OPEC MOMR, Speakers include ECB’s Cipollone & Nagel, and Supply from the US.
2. Listen to this report in the market open podcast (available on Apple and Spotify)
3. Trial Newsquawk’s premium real-time audio news squawk box for 7 day
US TRADE
EQUITIES
US stocks saw heavy selling pressure amid the geopolitical escalation between Iran and Israel and closed around session lows on Friday. Sectors were lower across the board, aside from Energy, which was buoyed in the wake of the aforementioned geopolitics.
SPX -1.13% at 5,977, NDX -1.29% at 21,631, DJI -1.79% at 42,198, RUT -1.85% at 2,101
Trump administration reportedly weighs adding 36 countries to the travel ban, according to Reuters citing a memo.
GEOPOLITICS – IRAN/ISRAEL
OVERNIGHT UPDATES
Israeli Air Force planes launched a preemptive strike before an Iranian attack, attacking missile launchers in the centre of the country, according to Kann news.
IDF says it struck surface-to-surface missile sites in central Iran. “Israeli media: interception of a missile launched by the Houthis from Yemen towards Israel”, according to Al Arabiya. IDF at that also said it was under a new missile attack from Iran, according to Al Arabiya.
“Iranian Foreign Minister: The fire ignited by Israel may get out of control… If the aggression stops, the ground for a return to diplomacy will be available”, according to Sky News Arabia.
“Israeli media: reports of a 2.5-magnitude earthquake near the Fordow nuclear facility in Iran”, according to Sky News Arabia
US President Trump said he hopes there will be a deal between Iran and Israel, but “sometimes you have to fight it out”; he does not want to say if he has asked Israel to pause strikes on Iran; said the US will continue to support Israel in its defence.
“Iranian security reveals secret Mossad headquarters south of Tehran that includes drones and explosives”, according to Sky News Arabia.
Israel’s military instructed the public it is safe to leave protected shelters, signalling threat from the current Iranian missile attack is over, according to Reuters.
Ambrey said Iranian forces launched a ballistic missile attack on port infrastructure in Israel’s Haifa, according to Reuters.
Several residential buildings in Tel Aviv were struck an Iranian missile attack, according to a Reuters witness.
Israeli military says it attacked Iran’s IRGC Qods Force headquarters in Tehran, according to Reuters.
“Israeli security source: Iran has started using hypersonic precision missiles”, according to Al Arabiya.
“IRGC: Our operations will continue until Israel’s complete demise”, according to Cairo News.
WEEKEND UPDATES
Strikes
Israel and Iran launched fresh attacks on each other’s major cities, with exchanges of fire continuing into a third day on Sunday, according to multiple media outlets.
Iran fired more ballistic missiles toward Israel, while Israel struck several areas in Tehran, including Niavaran, Valiasr Square, and Hafte Tir Square, according to Al Jazeera.
Iranian strikes targeted a power station in Hadera and the Netanyahu family’s residence in Caesarea, according to Israeli media cited by Middle East Eye.
Israel launched a barrage of strikes across Iran on Sunday, stretching from the west to Tehran and Mashhad in the east, after Israeli PM Netanyahu had vowed to make the country pay “a very heavy price” for killing civilians, according to AFP. The Israeli army launched an attack on several military targets in western Tehran, according to journalist Elster on X. The Israeli Army said it had attacked more than 170 targets and over 720 Iranian military facilities in less than three days.
The Israeli Ambassador to the US told Fox News that they still had a few surprises up their sleeve for Iran.
IDF Spokesperson citing the Chief of Staff: “The IDF, through the Air Force, has completed paving the way to Tehran, and is precisely and extensively attacking the regime’s infrastructure and nuclear program in a way the enemy never imagined.”
Israeli government approved extending the state of emergency until June.
The IRGC confirmed the deaths of several high-ranking officers. Iran officially confirms that IRGC intelligence chief Brig. Gen. Mohammad Kazemi and his deputy Hassan Mohaqiq were killed in Israeli strikes on Sunday.
Oil, Gas, Nuclear Facilities
Israeli drones on Saturday targeted the South Pars Gas Refinery and the Fajr Jam Gas Refinery, according to Tasnim News Agency. Iran has partially suspended gas production at the world’s biggest gas field – the South Pars gas field – after an Israeli strike caused a fire there on Saturday, according to Reuters.
The Israeli Bezan Petroleum Company said Saturday’s Iranian bombing had caused damage to the oil refinery and its extensions in Haifa Bay.
Israel Army said it had struck hard Iran’s Isfahan nuclear facility, according to reports.
Isfahan refinery units were in stable condition, IRNA said on Sunday.
A senior Israeli official said the operation would have been useless without destroying the Fordow nuclear reactor in Iran, according to Al Arabiya citing the official.
Kpler’s Bakr posted “So far there are no signs of disruptions in oil loadings from Iran, we’ll continue to monitor the situation…Without a supply outage, there will be no need from anyone to add more barrels onto the market”, via X.
The UK said it was worried about Iran potentially closing the Strait of Hormuz.
Diplomacy
US President Trump posted on Truth Social on Sunday: “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal…we will have PEACE, soon, between Israel and Iran! Many calls and meetings now taking place.”
Mediation efforts to stop the war with Iran had begun, according to Yedioth Ahronoth citing an Israeli official. Yedioth Ahronoth quoted an Israeli official as saying there was no good proposal yet to stop the war with Iran.
One Israeli official told Axios that Israel was not interested in a ceasefire at that time because it had not yet achieved all of its goals, particularly in destroying Iran’s nuclear programme. Israeli officials said there was currently no serious diplomatic initiative to stop the war with Iran.
Israeli PM Netanyahu said regime change in Iran was likely through Israeli military operations, according to Reuters.
Turkish President Erdogan Erdogan told US President Trump that Turkey was ready to make every effort, including playing a facilitator role, according to Reuters.
Russian official said Moscow is capable of playing a major role in mediating between Iran and Israel.
“There’s a big mediation push by Gulf Arab states to end the conflict between Israel and Iran, but so far no signs of things calming down”, according to Kpler’s Bakr.
Iran’s Foreign Minister said they will halt attacks on Israel if Israeli strikes stop.
Assassination Headlines
A US official confirmed to Axio’s Ravid that over the weekend, Israel had an operational window to assassinate Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, but President Trump made it clear he was against such a move, according to Axios.
Israeli PM Netanyahu said Iran had fired a missile at his bedroom window but missed.
Israeli PM Netanyahu said intelligence showed Iranian attempts to assassinate US President Trump, calling him “enemy number one,” and spoke about when he had informed President Trump of the plans for launching the strikes, according to Reuters.
Allies’ Involvement
US President Trump said the US might get involved in the Israel-Iran war., according to ABC.
The US is not currently considering joining the war against Iran to eliminate its nuclear program, according to an ABC News report.
Israel’s minister called on the United States and Europe to join Iran’s offensive, according to Reuters.
Yemeni Houthis said on Sunday that they targeted Israel in coordination with Iran, the first time in this war that an Iran-backed group has publicly announced an attack in coordination with Iran.
IDF Spokesperson said alerts had been activated in the area surrounding Gaza and that details were being reviewed, according to Reuters.
A Pakistani security source said rumours of Pakistan providing military support to Iran were false, according to Al‑Manar.
A high-ranking Russian official has contacted several top Iranian officials offering a safe route out of the country. Several officials are reportedly finalizing their exit routes, according to Iran International.
Nuclear Deal
Israeli PM Netanyahu told Fox News that they had known the negotiations between the US and Iran would not progress.
US President Trump is still trying to resume talks with Iran, according to Axios.
TRADE/TARIFFS
The US-China trade agreement in London did not resolve export restrictions linked to national security, according to Reuters.
Japanese Foreign Ministry said Japan’s PM, in a call with US President Trump, reiterated Japan’s views on the US tariff measures, according to Reuters.
US President Trump will have bilateral talks with Canadian PM Carney, Ukrainian President Zelensky and Mexican President Sheinbaum at the G7, according to a White House official.
Japanese government said top trade negotiator Akazawa spoke by phone with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick for 30 minutes on Saturday. Akazawa and Lutnick engaged in in-depth discussions and explored the possibility of a trade agreement.
APAC TRADE
EQUITIES
APAC stocks saw mixed trade with sentiment stabilising overnight despite the losses on Wall Street on Friday and the geopolitical escalations over the weekend. This came amid efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, with US President Trump posting on Truth suggesting many calls and meetings are taking place for a peak deal between Tehran and Tel Aviv.
ASX 200 moved between modest gains and losses, whilst reports suggested Australian regulator ASIC and RBA have ongoing concerns over ASX’s ability to maintain stable, secure and resilient critical market infrastructure. Santos shares meanwhile jumped 15% at the open after ADNOC made a USD 18.7bln takeover offer for the Co.
Nikkei 225 was bolstered by the weaker JPY despite the escalation on the Israel-Iran front. In trade-related headlines, Japan’s top trade negotiator Akazawa and the US engaged in in-depth discussions and explored the possibility of a trade agreement. Traders now look ahead to the BoJ announcement on Tuesday.
Hang Seng and Shanghai Comp were choppy whilst weekend reports suggested the US-China trade agreement in London did not resolve export restrictions linked to national security, according to Reuters. Chinese markets saw no notable reaction to Chinese activity data which saw Retail Sales surpass the most optimistic of analysts’ forecasts, whilst Industrial Output slightly missed expectations.
US equity futures fully trimmed modest opening losses (of around 0.4% for the ES; currently +0.2%), with risk appetite stable amid efforts to reach an Israel-Iran ceasefire. Ahead, US traders are gearing up for the FOMC on Wednesday in which the central bank is widely expected to keep rates unchanged and is likely to adopt a wait-and-see stance amid continued uncertainty.
European equity futures are indicative of a mildly softer open with the Euro Stoxx 50 future -0.2% after cash closed lower by 1.3% on Friday.
FX
DXY traded in a narrow 98.19-98.34 overnight range, well within Friday’s 97.62-98.59 parameter, with traders looking ahead to the FOMC on Wednesday in which the central bank is widely expected to keep rates unchanged, and is likely to adopt a wait-and-see stance amid continued uncertainty.
EUR/USD was uneventful within an overnight parameter of 1.1526-1.1548 with no action in the single currency overnight as traders gear up for a risk-packed week.
GBP/USD was subdued/flat but well within Friday’s 1.3516-1.3633 range, with newsflow for the UK light and notable releases sparse ahead of the BoE on Thursday.
USD/JPY was lifted as JPY weakened at the resumption of trade despite the escalation in Israeli-Iranian hostilities, but with risk sentiment overall stabilised amid efforts to broker a ceasefire between the nations. Furthermore, traders look ahead to tomorrow’s BoJ announcement with a focus on the widely telegraphed bond taper announcement.
Antipodeans recovered from earlier lows and moved in tandem with the broader risk tone amid their high-beta statuses. NZD saw no reaction to NZIER lowering New Zealand’s 2025/26 GDP growth forecast to 1.9% from 2.1%.
PBoC set USD/CNY mid-point at 7.1789 vs exp. 7.1854 (prev. 7.1772)
FIXED INCOME
10yr UST futures were largely uneventful in horizontal trade with contracts taking a breather after Friday’s crude-related selling, and with participants looking ahead to Wednesday’s FOMC announcement.
Bund futures traded flat after opening subdued with the German contracts initially feeling some headwinds from Friday’s fixed-income selling. Meanwhile, S&P affirmed Germany at ‘AAA’ rating; the outlook stable.
10yr JGB futures played catchup to the losses across Western contracts on Friday, with traders looking ahead to Tuesday’s BoJ announcement.
COMMODITIES
Crude futures gapped higher by some 4% at the reopen after Israel and Iran intensified attacks against each other over the weekend, with Israel targetting nuclear and gas facilities, although the crude complex almost fully reversed the move at the open, potentially amid efforts to broker a ceasefire, with US President Trump posting on Truth suggesting many calls and meetings are taking place for a peak deal between Iran and Israel. That being said, US President Trump also suggested the US might get involved in the Israel-Iran war.
Spot gold edged higher despite the stable sentiment and amid the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran. Elsewhere, Goldman Sachs maintains its forecast that “structurally strong central bank purchasing” will increase the gold price to USD 3,700/oz by the end of the year and USD 4,000 by mid-2026.
Copper futures were modestly subdued despite the overall stable risk sentiment but amid caution amid geopolitics and central bank risk events this week.
Baker Hughes Rig Count: Oil -3 at 439, Natgas -1 at 113, Total -4 at 555
CRYPTO
Bitcoin was choppy over the weekend and overnight but eventually rose above the USD 105k mark in narrow ranges.
Coinbase (COIN) was expected to receive an EU crypto license from Luxembourg, and Gemini was expected to receive a license in Malta, according to Reuters citing sources. European regulators had disagreed on a system for approving crypto licenses.
NOTABLE ASIA-PAC HEADLINES
BoJ reportedly considers halving quarterly purchases of Japanese government bonds to JPY 200bln from April 2026; the proposal is to be discussed at the Monday‑Tuesday policy meeting and expected to gain majority board support, according to Nikkei.
Taiwan added China’s Huawei and SMIC to its export control blacklist to combat arms proliferation and prevent tech transfers, according to Reuters.
Amid rising global trade frictions and unilateral actions, China and Central Asian countries explored building a more resilient regional supply chain, with the China-Central Asia mechanism providing certainty amid external shifts, according to Global Times.
South Korea to reportedly unveil an extra budget of at least KRW 20tln soon, according to South Korean press Joongang.
South Korean Finance Ministry said that closely monitoring financial markets; South Korea to provide financial and shipping support to exporters, according to Bloomberg.
NZIER lowered New Zealand’s 2025/26 GDP growth forecast to 1.9% from 2.1%.
PBoC injected CNY 242bln via 7-day reverse repos with the rate maintained at 1.40%.
China’s NBS said China’s economy remains steady; economy still encounters numerous unstable, uncertain factors; China must coordinate domestic economic work and trade struggle, according to Reuters and Bloomberg. Stats Bureau spokesperson said China’s policy toolkit is well-stocked and has the flexibility to adjust macro policies according to changing circumstances, and overall level of prices still at a low level which affects enterprises, employment and incomes. Spokesperson added that there is difficulty in recruiting workers in some sectors and a high level of pressure on employment for some groups. and there is still some pressure on maintaining stable employment primarily due to the complex and changing external environment. Furthermore, due to factors such as increased uncertainty in trade policies it has been particularly challenging for China’s economy to maintain stable growth since the second quarter. Spokesperson said that for the first half of this year China’s economy is expected to have remained generally stable, and based on the first half of 2025 China’s economic performance is expected to maintain a generally stable development trend. The official added that peoples’ consumption ability and confidence need to be boosted, and factors supporting consumption growth in May include goods trade-in policy, 618 shopping event and expansion of list of visa-free entry countries.
China’s Stats Bureau spokesperson said in order to help the real estate market stop its decline and return to stability more efforts are still needed, according to Reuters.
China is to hold its NPC Standing Committee meeting June 24–27th, according to Reuters.
DATA RECAP
Chinese House Prices YY (May) -3.5% (Prev. -4.0%).
Chinese Industrial Output YY (May) 5.8% vs. Exp. 5.9% (Prev. 6.1%)
Chinese Retail Sales YY (May) 6.4% vs. Exp. 5.0% (Prev. 5.1%)
Chinese Urban Investment (YTD)YY (May) 3.7% vs. Exp. 3.9% (Prev. 4.0%)
GEOPOLITICS
ISRAEL-IRAN: NOTABLE FRIDAY HEADLINES
Iran will not participate in nuclear negotiations with the US scheduled for Sunday, Iran state TV reported.
US President Trump told Axios that Israel’s attack could help him make a deal with Iran, according to Reuters. When asked whether Israel’s strike had jeopardized his nuclear diplomacy, Trump said, “I don’t think so. Maybe the opposite. Maybe now they will negotiate seriously.” He argued that after Israel’s crippling strikes, Iran now had a stronger incentive to cut a deal. “I couldn’t get them to a deal in 60 days. They were close, they should have done it. Maybe now it will happen.”
US forces were participating in defeating the Iranian attack on Israel, according to Axios’ Ravid citing an Israeli official.
An Iranian official on Friday said Iran would immediately target Israel’s economic and energy infrastructure if Iran’s own was hit, according to Fars News.
Reports on Friday suggested Iran fired missiles at Israel from a submarine, according to Fars News.
Israel’s National Security Adviser said military means could not totally destroy Iran’s nuclear programme, according to Reuters. Israel’s National Security Adviser said they did not currently want to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei, but wanted to make the Iranians understand that their nuclear programme had to be stopped, according to Reuters.
Israel warned that Iran would pay a heavy price for its missile attack on populated areas and might hit energy facilities in response, according to Guy Elster citing Channel 12 via X.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu said they had taken out a large portion of Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal, according to the Israeli government.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei said the Iranian armed forces would leave Israel “hopeless”; Israel would not remain unscathed, and Tehran would not go for half measures in its response, according to Iranian state media.
The IDF said they had destroyed a uranium metallic production facility, enriched uranium conversion infrastructure, and laboratories in Isfahan, via Sky News Arabia.
IAEA Chief Grossi told the Security Council that the above-ground plant where Iran had been producing uranium enriched up to 60% had been destroyed, according to Reuters.
US President Trump had spoken by phone with the Saudi Crown Prince about the war between Israel and Iran. The two had discussed the need to stop the escalation, according to the office of the Saudi Crown Prince.
RUSSIA-UKRAINE
US Senator Graham warned that sanctions would be brought to Congress if there was no breakthrough with Russian President Putin, and told US President Trump to alter the strategy with Putin, according to Reuters.
SOUTH CHINA SEA
China’s military conducted patrols in the South China Sea and warned the Philippines, according to Reuters.
OTHERS
24 US tanker aircraft head eastward from the US to Europe, “an unusually large number”, according to the Spectator Index.
EU/UK
NOTABLE HEADLINES
S&P affirmed Germany at a ‘AAA’ rating; outlook stable.
S&P affirmed Sweden at ‘AAA’ rating; outlook stable.
ECB’s de Guindos says EUR/USD at 1.15 is no big obstacle as appreciation is not rapid and volatility is not extreme. Markets understood perfectly well the ECB post-decision message: ECB very close to target. The risk of undershooting the inflation target is very limited; risks to inflation are balanced. In the medium term, tariffs reduce both growth and inflation
DATA RECAP
UK Rightmove House Prices MM (Jun) -0.3% (Prev. 0.6%); Y/Y 0.8% (Prev. 1.2%).
Narratives will change as the fighting between Ira and Israel continues, but one conclusion is already evident: China, Iran’s long-time backer, is a victim of the fighting. That is a quick reversal of fortunes. Only last year, the Chinese looked ascendant in the region. Pictured: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (C), Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov (L) and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazeem Gharibabadi meet on March 14, 2025 in Beijing. (Photo by Getty Images)
Israeli air and drone strikes during the early hours of June 13th crippled Iran — and severely set back Tehran’s regional ambitions. The Israel Defense Forces hit nuclear weapons development facilities and ballistic missile sites, and killed senior military officers, including Major General Mohammad Bagheri, the armed forces chief of staff, and Major General Hossein Salami, the commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Iranian media announced the death of Ali Shamkhani, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s top adviser.
Tehran said that Israel’s action was a “declaration of war.” This war is continuing, and Iran has struck back with ballistic missile and drone attacks.
Narratives will change as the fighting continues, but one conclusion is already evident: China, Iran’s long-time backer, is a victim of the fighting. That is a quick reversal of fortunes. Only last year, the Chinese looked ascendant in the region.
“China is closely following Israel’s attacks on Iran and is deeply concerned about the potential grave consequences of the operations,” the Chinese foreign ministry stated on X a few hours after the initial attacks. “China opposes actions that violate Iran’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity, and opposes moves that escalate tensions or enlarge conflicts.”
“China stands ready to play a constructive role in helping ease the situation,” it added.
Beijing may stand ready, but, apart from the Iranian regime itself, the region is not looking for Chinese assistance.
For instance, Saudi Arabia and neighboring Gulf states are, as academic and analyst Christopher Balding put it, “quietly happy” that Israel has set back Iran in general and its nuclear weapons program in particular. “There were some very, very relieved people in the Gulf as the sun rose this morning,” Jonathan Bass told Gatestone the day after Israel’s initial attack.
As Bass, who travels extensively in the region for Argent LNG points out, the losses sustained by the Iranian military and the IRGC give the Sunni Muslim states fewer reasons to cooperate with Tehran. “The Saudis were not particularly happy with Chinese attempts to forge a relationship between them and the Iranians,” Bass said. “The March 2023 deal was not popular in the Kingdom.”
Bass was referring to the China-brokered pact that led long-time enemies Riyadh and Tehran to reestablish diplomatic relations.
“The Saudis,” Bass pointed out, “know that China had armed their enemy Iran with nukes and lesser weapons and fully backed the Houthis, who have been waging war on the Kingdom for years.”
Beijing may also suffer another setback. China has been taking more than 90% of Iran’s exports of crude oil in recent years. Israeli strikes on June 14th hit a processing plant in Iran’s South Pars gas field, the world’s largest. There are reports that Israel also attacked Iran’s Abadan oil refinery. If the strikes on Iranian energy sites continue, Beijing could soon be scrambling for hydrocarbons.
“As Iran’s largest purchaser of energy, China stands the most to lose from the potential fall of Iran’s theocracy,” Brandon Weichert, author of The Shadow War: Iran’s Quest for Supremacy, told this site. “The Chinese state is only as strong as its main energy provider, and that main energy provider, which so far has not been able to counter Israeli strikes, is unlikely to survive this war in its current form.”
The possible loss of the Iranian regime reverses two years of fast Chinese progress in the region. “China is the head, Iran is the shoulder, Qatar is the elbow, and the proxies—Hamas, the Houthis, and Hezbollah—are the fingers,” Bass notes. “Without the shoulder, the head cannot move either the elbow or the fingers.”
The decimation of Iran also sets back China in another crucial part of the region. “With the loss of Syria and Hezbollah, Iran no longer has a command and control center in Damascus, only a two-hour drive from Beirut,” Bass points out. “That means China can no longer manipulate events there.”
Syria, once a promising target for Chinese domination, is leaving Beijing’s sphere of influence. The country’s new leader, former militant Ahmed al-Sharaa, is fast moving Syria closer to the United States.
Sharaa has a willing partner: U.S. President Donald J. Trump. While in Saudi Arabia last month, Trump met with Sharaa after announcing that the U.S. would drop its Assad-era sanctions on his country.
China has a Trump problem in the wider region as well. With the exception of Iran, almost everybody, including Iran’s partner Qatar, expresses love for the American president. Trump took the Gulf by storm in his three-nation — Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates — trip in May.
Chinese leaders obviously thought that their backing of Iran would let them ride into control of the region. A proxy war is a sly maneuver when the proxies do well, but it can lead to disaster when the proxies are being ground into the dust.
China’s proxies — and China itself — are now being ground into the dust.
my”, and is why not just the US – but also Europe – is expressing outrage with Beijing’s relentless mercantilist model, which exports deflation – and economic pain – to every market targeted by China’s sweatshops.
4. EUROPEAN AFFAIRS
GERMANY
German Commissioner Calls For Purge Of AfD Members From Police Ranks
The police commissioner of the German Bundestag, Uli Grötsch, has demanded that all members of the right-wing Alternative for Germany (AfD) be removed from the police service.
Despite holding an office meant to monitor misconduct and structural problems in the federal police, Grötsch, a Social Democratic Party (SPD) politician, used the platform to argue that AfD membership is incompatible with public service.
“AfD membership and work as a police officer are not compatible,” Grötsch told the Rheinische Post, referencing the controversial classification of the party as “definitely right-wing extremist” by Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV).
“Membership with visible commitment to the AfD must result in removal from service. For me, commitment means openly campaigning for the party, running for the municipal or city council, or even for the Bundestag,” he added.
Grötsch’s comments clash directly with more moderate voices in the federal government, including those from within the ruling coalition. Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt of the Christian Social Union (CSU) dismissed the idea of blanket purges of public servants.
“The loyalty to the constitution that is required of civil servants can only be considered on a case-by-case basis,” he said, as cited by Junge Freiheit.
This is not the first time Grötsch has aggressively targeted AfD members in the police. In March 2024, he warned that any form of AfD support from within the police ranks was “highly problematic,” describing the party as increasingly radicalized. “It is devastating when police and judiciary are infiltrated by enemies of the free democratic basic order,” he said, according to Die Welt.
Grötsch appears to be escalating his efforts. In an earlier interview with Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, he broadened the scope of concern, stating: “I think it is highly problematic if police employees are members of the AfD or support the party in other ways.” The statement leaves open whether mere support — including donations, expressions of sympathy, or voting — might fall under the same scrutiny.
A controversial internal memo from January 2025, initially reported by Junge Freiheit, further revealed that AfD-affiliated officials within the federal police were being targeted for removal, based on a directive signed by former Interior Minister Nancy Faeser, also of the SPD. The leaked memo stated that active participation in the AfD was grounds for disciplinary action.
With 54,000 employees in the federal police, including 45,000 officers, the actual number of AfD members within the force is unknown. Critics point out, however, that political membership alone has not been a disqualifying factor in the past — President of the Federal Police Headquarters Dieter Romann is himself a member of the CDU.
One passage shared from the internal police intranet stated: “If membership in such a party becomes known, there are sufficient actual indications that justify the suspicion of a disciplinary offense, at least if the officer is actively involved in such a party.”
The AfD has made law and order central to its platform. Many see its focus on border security, national sovereignty, and internal safety as naturally resonant with the concerns of police officers.
Critics now warn that attempts to exclude those who align with such views could amount to an ideological purge and attempt to stifle political opposition rather than legitimate oversight.
Israel’s Strike On South Pars: Is Europe Facing A New Energy Crisis?
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 06:30 AM
Submitted by Thomas Kolbe
Israel’s recent military strike on Iran’s nuclear capabilities and the main artery of its energy sector has reshuffled the regional deck. For Europe, the attack could signal the onset of an energy policy disaster.
It is too early to fully assess Israel’s strategic attacks on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and energy production. Yet one thing is already clear: alongside the systematic elimination of military and nuclear targets, the precision strike on the South Pars gas field marks a dramatic escalation of military events. Located on the Persian Gulf, South Pars is currently the world’s largest operational gas field and a central pillar of the Iranian regime’s economic stability. By targeting this facility, Israel has sent a clear signal that it aims to bring about regime change in Tehran—and is willing to risk retaliatory attacks on its own energy infrastructure to achieve that end.
Hitting Iran’s Economic Lifeline
The June 14 attack on the gas field resulted in the immediate shutdown of one of its four production units. Daily output dropped by 12 million cubic meters—a roughly 4.4 percent decrease in Iran’s daily gas production, which totals approximately 275 billion cubic meters annually. With a domestic gas price of around $0.07 per cubic meter, the Iranian regime is now losing an estimated $840,000 per day. This is a serious blow to the country’s energy sector, as South Pars is Iran’s most important energy source.
Iran uses the bulk of its natural gas for domestic consumption—primarily for power generation, heating, and industrial purposes. Only about 10 percent of its gas output is designated for export, according to the National Iranian Gas Company (NIGC), with Iraq and Turkey as its main customers under long-term contracts. Export to Europe remains a strategic objective for Tehran but is currently of negligible significance due to lack of infrastructure and hostile political conditions.
Europe’s Energy Dependence
Israel’s strike caused an immediate spike in global energy prices. Within hours, the price of crude oil surged by 14 percent to $73 per barrel, reflecting market fears of a regional escalation that could permanently damage energy production infrastructure. While global LNG markets were less directly affected, traders began pricing in risk premiums for oil and gas futures in anticipation of further attacks on critical energy facilities.
If the conflict deepens, energy-poor and import-dependent regions could face a heavy toll. Europe, in particular, may be reminded of the oil shocks of the 1970s, when OPEC retaliated against Western support for Israel during the Yom Kippur War with a 5 percent production cut—plunging much of the West into recession. At the time, the price of oil jumped from $3 to over $12 per barrel in less than a year. Western economies scrambled to respond with drastic measures, including the now-infamous “car-free Sundays.”
Despite decades of rhetoric about energy independence, Europe remains highly vulnerable. Around 58 percent of the European Union’s total energy consumption must be covered by imports from outside the continent. This dependency makes Europe susceptible to geopolitical crises, price volatility, and supply disruptions. Energy security has long been a core concern of EU policy, but the continent has failed to escape the geopolitical stranglehold of the global energy market. The EU’s Green Deal, hailed as a bold energy transformation, has in practice deepened Europe’s vulnerability by accelerating deindustrialization and weakening its industrial base.
Oil and gas dependence remains especially pronounced. Germany, despite annual multibillion-euro investments in “green transformation,” imports 66 percent of its energy. Italy depends on imports for 75 percent of its needs, and Spain for 68 percent. Only a handful of countries, such as Estonia (3 percent) and Sweden (26 percent), can claim relative energy independence.
The Euro and the Fiat Trap
For eurozone nations, a repeat of the 1970s oil crisis would be financially devastating. Crises of this kind drive mobile capital toward the U.S. dollar—the world’s dominant energy-trading currency. The U.S., with its largely energy-autarkic economy, would be shielded from much of the fallout.
Europe’s situation, by contrast, is precarious. The euro is a fiat currency backed by an issuer with little access to domestic energy resources. In the face of geopolitical shocks, it would likely suffer sharp devaluation as Europe scrambles to pay soaring import prices. Rising energy costs would act as a recession accelerator, fueling existing inflationary pressures and triggering capital flight toward more energy-secure jurisdictions. Europe is trapped. The political elimination of nuclear power in Germany and the embargo on Russian energy have only intensified the continent’s exposure.
Brussels appears paralyzed in the face of this geopolitical turbulence. The war between Israel and Iran underscores what has already become clear in the Ukraine conflict: the EU is losing geopolitical relevance at breakneck speed. It plays little to no role in either preventing or resolving the central conflicts of our era. Without a fundamental shift in strategy—and a renewed willingness to engage in pragmatic diplomacy—Europe lacks the tools to confront an impending energy shock. The EU must relearn the art of negotiation. Its influence in the world’s energy-dominant regions is rapidly evaporating.
* * *
Thomas Kolbe, a German economist, has worked for over 25 years as a journalist and media producer for clients from various industries and business associations. As a publicist, he focuses on economic processes and observes geopolitical events from the perspective of the capital markets. His publications follow a philosophy that focuses on the individual and their right to self-determination.
5 RUSSIAN AND MIDDLE EASTERN AFFAIRS
ISRAEL IRAN
IDF destroys Iranian Tabriz military base
The IDF also confirmed that the majority of Iran’s Friday barrage failed to meet their targets.
The IDF attacked and destroyed Iranian Air Force military bases: Dozens of targets belonging to the Iranian regime’s air defense system were destroyed.(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON UNIT)ByJERUSALEM POST STAFFJUNE 13, 2025 23:59
The IDF attacked and destroyed dozens of Iranian military targets, including the Tabriz air base, the military announced Friday.
Additional targets included the Hamadan air base and the regime’s air defense system, unmanned aerial vehicles, and surface-to-surface missile launchers.
Iranian response failed to meet targets
Fewer than 100 missiles were launched from Iran during each barrage of Friday night’s attack, IDF Spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Effie Defrin stated.
Smoke is seen from a potential Iranian missile hit (credit: AVSHALOM SASSONI/MAARIV)
The majority of the missiles were intercepted by the Air Force or failed to reach their targets.
A small number of buildings were damaged by the missiles, and some were damaged by interception fragments.
This is a developing story.
ISRAEL IRAN
Nine senior scientists and experts in the Iranian nuclear project killed, IDF announces
The strike that killed the Islamic Republic officials was possible due to intelligence gathered by the IDF’s Intelligence Branch.
Nine senior scientists and experts in the Iranian nuclear project were eliminated by the IDF, the military announced on Saturday afternoon.
Two of the nine were advancing the Islamic Republic‘s agenda to obtain nuclear weapons, the IDF added.
The strike that killed the Islamic Republic officials was possible due to intelligence gathered by the IDF’s Intelligence Directorate.
The scientists killed had decades of cumulative experience in the development of nuclear weapons. The scientists include Fereydoun Abbasi and Ahmad Reza Zolfaghari Daryani, experts in nuclear engineering; Akbar Motalebi Zadeh, an expert in chemical engineering; Saeed Barji, a materials engineering expert; physics experts Mohammad Mahdi Tehranshi, Mansour Asgari, and Amir Hassan Fakhahi; Abd al-Hamid Minoushehr, a reactor physics expert; and Ali Bakhouei Katirimi, a mechanics expert.
Statments by the Intelligence Direactorate head the day before
Maj.-Gen. Shlomi Binder, head of the IDF’s Military Intelligence Directorate, said the day before that Israel is entering an “existential campaign” against Iran and they are operating at the highest level of readiness to disrupt Tehran’s nuclear and missile programs.
Physics expert Mohammad Mahdi Tehranshi during one of the nuclear experiments for the Islamic Republic. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON’S UNIT)
“We want to degrade, disrupt, and remove this threat,” Binder said. “We are embarking on a campaign that is nothing short of existential—against an enemy that seeks to destroy us.”
Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report.
end
Wave of Israeli strikes reported in Tabriz in northern Iran, including near refinery
Two people were also killed in an Israeli attack on a missile site in Assadabad in western Iran.
A military aircraft flies in the sky following a barrage of missiles launched from Iran, as seen over Tubas, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, June 14, 2025.(photo credit: REUTERS/RANEEN SAWAFTA)ByJERUSALEM POST STAFFJUNE 14, 2025 12:14Updated: JUNE 14, 2025 12:18
A new wave of Israeli strikes has been reported in the city of Tabriz in northwestern Iran, Army Radio reported Saturday afternoon.
Iranian state media Mehr News Agency reported that the strike occurred near the Tabriz Refinery, and stated that there was smoke rising.
Two people were also killed in an Israeli attack on a missile site in Assadabad in western Iran on Saturday, Iranian news sites reported.
Rescuers work at the site of a damaged building, in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, June 13, 2025. (credit: Iranian Red Crescent Society/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via REUTERS)
Reuters contributed to this report. This is a developing story.
end
The road to Tehran has been paved: IDF secures air route for stronger strikes on Iran
According to military officials, the pace of Israeli air operations as far as Tehran is expected to accelerate.
IAF warplanes stand on the tarmac before Israel’s counterstrike on Yemen on May 5, 2025.(photo credit: IDF SPOKESMAN’S UNIT)ByAMIR BOHBOTJUNE 14, 2025 11:49Updated: JUNE 14, 2025 11:50
The Israel Air Force is now capable of operating without obstruction as far as Tehran, following what was described as the destruction of a majority of Iran’s air defense systems, security officials said on Saturday morning.
The reported elimination of Syria’s military capabilities, including those of Hezbollah, has further expanded Israel’s operational range and shortened flight paths to Iran.
Until approximately two years ago, the IAF faced severe limitations in operating over Lebanon and Syria. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir’s statement on Saturday, saying “The road to Tehran has been paved” reflects the IDF’s present air dominance and signals a strategic shift. According to military officials, the pace of air operations is expected to accelerate.
Iran maintains three key nuclear sites: Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordow. Natanz and Isfahan have reportedly been rendered non-operational, in what defense sources describe as a substantial setback to Iran’s nuclear development efforts.
While the Fordow facility remains intact, the loss of scientific personnel, due to the targeted killings of key figures, is expected to delay any nuclear progress. Intelligence officials emphasized that scientific leadership is essential for overseeing such complex programs, and its absence will hinder Iran’s ability to coordinate further action.
Rescuers work at the site of a damaged building, in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in Tehran, Iran, June 13, 2025. (credit: Iranian Red Crescent Society/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via REUTERS)
Significant damage has also reportedly been inflicted on Iran’s surface-to-surface missile systems and defense industries. Military assessments indicate that Iran remains highly vulnerable to further strikes, particularly in Tehran, where intensified Israeli operations are expected in the next 24 hours.
Additionally, the IDF’s intelligence community is said to have made a notable breakthrough in real-time intelligence collection. This advancement enables precise targeting of individuals and strategic assets, including mobile launch systems, as they move. Military officials described the development as a “game changer” for operational effectiveness.
end
Iran fires barrages of ballistic missiles at Israel, killing 3 people and wounding dozens
Several projectiles impact in central Israel; IDF says most missiles intercepted; Israeli official tells TV news ‘Iran will pay unbearably heavy price for firing at civilian areas’
The scene of an Iranian ballistic missile strike in the Tel Aviv area, July 13, 2025 (Magen David Adom)
Iran launched several barrages of ballistic missiles at Israel Friday night and early Saturday morning, sending Israelis across the country rushing to shelters as the skies were filled with streaks of light and fireballs from incoming projectiles and Israeli interceptions.
Some 80 people were reported hurt in the strikes, including three people who were critically injured and later succumbed to their wounds. According to Magen David Adom, several more people were seriously hurt. The rest were lightly to moderately injured or suffered acute anxiety.
Iranian media claimed hundreds of missiles were fired in the first barrage late Friday, while the Israel Defense Forces estimated that the actual number stood at less than 100.
Four waves of attacks overnight each consisted of dozens of missiles, according to the IDF, which declined to provide a specific number.
An explosion is seen during an Iranian missile attack in Tel Aviv, late on June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Tomer Neuberg)
Several missiles impacted central Israel, with large explosions heard in the Tel Aviv area and smoke seen rising over several impact locations.
Home Front Command soldiers rescued a civilian from one of the buildings in the Tel Aviv area that was hit by a ballistic missile, the IDF said.
Israeli air defense system fires to intercept Iranian missiles over Tel Aviv, Israel, Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)
A large fragment from an intercepted missile hit a town in northern Israel, causing damage, police said.
IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said most of the missiles were intercepted by air defenses or fell short before reaching the country.
A large fragment from an intercepted ballistic missile that was launched from Iran impacted in a town in northern Israel, causing damage, police say. pic.twitter.com/XhsVolAMPF
— Emanuel (Mannie) Fabian (@manniefabian) June 13, 2025
“There are a limited number of impacts on buildings, some were caused by interception fragments,” he said.
An American official said the US assisted Israel in defending against the missile attacks.
“I can confirm that the US is assisting in shooting down missiles targeting Israel,” the official told AFP on condition of anonymity. No detail was given on the extent of the US role.
Fire and smoke rises from a destroyed building that was hit by a missile fired from Iran, in central Israel, on Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Tomer Appelbaum)
The IDF called on the public not to publish the locations or footage of missile impacts. “The enemy monitors the footage to improve its attack capabilities,” the military said.
Phone alerts had been sent to Israelis shortly after 9 p.m., some 10 minutes before the first missiles hit, and sirens sounded shortly before their arrival in the specific locations under threat. The IDF’s Home Front Command advised people to remain in shelters until told it was safe to come out, rather than the usual 10 minutes when projectiles are fired from Gaza, Lebanon and Yemen. The all-clear was eventually given around 10:10 p.m.
Another salvo of missiles was fired after 1 a.m. Saturday morning, with Israelis given the all-clear to leave their shelters some 25 minutes later.
A few more barrages were fired several hours later, with the first triggering sirens in the north and the other two activating alerts across the country.
A ballistic missile in the latter salvo directly struck a building in central Israel, causing extensive damage to numerous homes and injuring at least 19 people, including two people who died of their wounds.
Israeli security forces inspect destroyed houses that were struck by a missile fired from Iran, in Rishon Lezion, Israel on Saturday, June 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)
Iran’s state news agency IRNA claimed hundreds of ballistic missiles had been launched in retaliation for Israel’s biggest-ever attacks on Iran, blasting Iran’s huge underground nuclear site at Natanz and other nuclear and military sites, and wiping out its top military commanders.
The Revolutionary Guards said they carried out attacks against dozens of targets in Israel.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said in a statement that Israel had initiated a war and said it would not be allowed to do “hit and run” attacks without grave consequences.
This picture shows missile trails in the sky above Jerusalem on June 13, 2025, after a salvo from Iran. (Photo by Ahmad GHARABLI / AFP)
“The Zionist regime will not remain unscathed from the consequences of its crime. The Iranian nation must be guaranteed that our response will not be half-measured,” Khamenei said.
Defense Minister Israel Katz said Iran had “crossed red lines after it dared to fire missiles at civilian population concentrations in Israel.”
“We will continue to defend the citizens of Israel and ensure that the ayatollah regime pays a very heavy price for its heinous actions,” he added.
Channel 12 quoted an unnamed Israeli political source as threatening Iran with escalated strikes.
“Iran will pay an unbearably heavy price for firing at civilian areas,” the source was quoted as saying. “We know what Israel hit [in its attacks on Iranian targets today],” and we know what Israel decided not to hit. And that’s the next step.”
The remark appeared to be a reference to potential Israeli strikes on Iranian energy and infrastructure targets.
Earlier, Khamenei warned Israel faced a “bitter and painful” fate in response to the attack launched overnight against the Islamic Republic’s nuclear program.
The scene of an Iranian ballistic missile strike in the Tel Aviv area, July 13, 2025 (Magen David Adom)
Tehran launched 100 drones toward Israel in its initial response, but all were shot down by Israeli and other regional air defenses en route.
Israel had alerted citizens on Friday morning that Iran had launched more than 100 drones, which would take several hours to arrive, telling people nationwide to remain near bomb shelters. Three hours later, the IDF Home Front Command lifted its instruction to Israelis to remain near shelters without a single siren sounding in the country.
The IDF said late Friday morning that it had “control over the situation.”
Israel “opened its wicked and blood-stained hand to a crime in our beloved country, revealing its malicious nature more than ever by striking residential centers,” Khamenei said, in a statement carried by the state-run IRNA news agency.
The comments came after Israel launched a deadly wave of attacks that killed the Iranian armed forces’ chief of staff, the head of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, top aerospace officials, and senior nuclear scientists.
“With this crime, the Zionist regime has set itself up for a bitter and painful fate, and it will definitely receive it,” Khamenei said.
Iran said Israel’s actions underscored the Islamic Republic’s need to advance uranium enrichment and missile capabilities.
“One should not speak to such a predatory regime except in the language of power,” the Iranian government said in a statement. “The world now better understands Iran’s insistence on the right to enrichment, nuclear technology and missile power.”
The scene of an Iranian ballistic missile strike in the Tel Aviv area, July 13, 2025 (Magen David Adom)
The United States underlined Friday that it was not involved in the Israeli action and warned Tehran not to attack its personnel or interests.
But Tehran said the United States would be “responsible for consequences” as Israel’s operation “cannot have been carried out without the coordination and permission of the United States.”
Iranian armed forces spokesperson Abolfazl Shekarchi told state TV that Israel and the United States would pay a “heavy price” for the attacks.
Israel said early Friday that it had no choice but to attack Iran, adding that it had gathered intelligence that Tehran was approaching “the point of no return” in its pursuit of a nuclear weapon.
The Israeli operation was expected to last several days at least, according to military officials, who added that the Israel Defense Forces was preparing for heavy fire from Iran, but asserted that “at the end of the operation, there will be no nuclear threat” from the Islamic Republic.
end
Seven IDF soldiers wounded in Friday’s missile attack, Air Force continues strikes in Iran
Sirens sound across all of Israel overnight on Saturday • Israel intercepts UAVs in North, West Bank, Dead Sea • Three people reported dead, over 150 wounded in Israel
This aerial picture shows damaged buildings at a site hit by a missile fired from Iran in Ramat Gan near Tel Aviv on June 14, 2025. (Photo by Jack GUEZ / AFP)
Etti Cohen Engel is the second to be named of the three people killed in massive barrages of Iranian ballistic missile fire last night and early this morning.
Engel was killed in the missile attack that hit the central city of Ramat Gan last night.
Earlier today, it was announced that Yisrael Aloni, 73, was killed in a barrage on the central city of Rishon Lezion. Another person who has not yet been publicly named was killed in the same barrage.
In addition to the three people killed, some 70 people were wounded by the approximately 200 ballistic missiles fired from Iran.
Most of the missiles were intercepted by air defenses. The military said that around 25%, less than 50, were not intercepted “according to protocol,” meaning they were left to strike open areas without causing damage to any critical infrastructure.
A “small number” of missiles made it through air defenses, the IDF said, including in residential areas in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Rishon Lezion in central Israel.
END
Katz: ‘If Khamenei continues to fire missiles at Israel’s home front, Tehran will burn’
IDF says Air Force free to operate over Tehran * 1st victim of Iranian ballistic missile fire named as Yisrael Aloni, 73, from Rishon Lezion * Iran threatens to target bases of countries that help defend Israel
The defense minister made these statements after finishing a situational assessment with the IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, Mossad Director David Barnea, and other Israeli military leadership.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz waits for his British and French counterparts for a meeting, amid the conflict between Israel and Hamas, in Jerusalem August 16, 2024.(photo credit: REUTERS/FLORION GOGA)ByJERUSALEM POST STAFF, AVI ASHKENAZIJUNE 14, 2025 12:38Updated: JUNE 14, 2025 13:37
Defense Minister Israel Katz on Saturday threatened further action against Iran should more missiles be fired towards Israeli civilians.
“If Khamenei continues to fire missiles at Israeli civilians, Tehran will burn,” Katz said in a threatening message towards to Iranian Supreme Leader.
The defense minister made these statements after finishing a situational assessment with the IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, Mossad Director David Barnea, and other Israeli military leadership.
“The Iranian dictator is turning the citizens of Iran into hostages and bringing about the reality that they, and in particular the residents of Tehran, will pay a heavy price for the criminal harm to the citizens of Israel,” the defense minister added.
Katz then praised the IDF and security forces for the impressive operations and achievements against the Islamic Republic since Thursday.
Defense Minister Israel Katz, IDF officials hold situational update (credit: ARIEL HERMONY/DEFENSE MINISTRY)
Katz made these statements after another two Iranian deputy commanders at the Iranian armed forces’ general staff were killed in Israeli strikes.
Furthermore, Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility sustained limited damage following recent attacks by Israeli forces. Israel had also killed nine Iranian scientists who were advancing the Islamic Republic’s agenda in developing a nuclear weapon, the IDF said.
Reuters contributed to this report.
END
ISRAEL/IRAN HITTING ISFAHAN
PM: Israel couldn’t wait any longer to strike Iran; IDF confirms hitting Isfahan nuclear site
Netanyahu says he gave order in November to thwart nuclear and missile program; Hanegbi says military force alone can’t work, only Trump can compel Iran to abandon atomic program
Israeli Air Force F-35I fighter jets depart for strikes in Iran, June 13, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Friday that he had given the order to attack Iran as it had become clear that Tehran’s nuclear and missile programs were building into an immediate existential threat to the Jewish state, with the danger so urgent he was prepared to launch the strikes even without US support.
“If we don’t attack, then it’s 100% that we will die,” he argued in a video statement to the nation, hours after Israel launched blistering attacks on the heart of Iran’s nuclear and military structure Friday, deploying warplanes and drones previously smuggled into the country to attack key facilities and kill top generals and scientists.
Netanyahu said that he had given the directive to take out Iran’s nuclear program in November 2024 after it became clear that Tehran would move swiftly to build a nuclear weapon after its proxy axis — led primarily by the threat of tens of thousands of missiles wielded by Hezbollah — was shattered by Israel.
“The directive came shortly after the assassination of [Hezbollah leader Hassan] Nasrallah,” Netanyahu said, adding that it was clear to him that Iran would rush toward the bomb once Hezbollah no longer posed a threat to Israel.
Israel, he said, identified tangible steps Iran was taking toward weaponization, beyond just uranium enrichment. Netanyahu said he set the date for the attack on Iran for the end of April 2025. However, he pointed to “various reasons” it couldn’t be done then, without going into detail.
One very pressing reason might have been US President Donald Trump’s announcement in April that he would engage in direct talks with Iran over its nuclear program. Trump said he had given the Iranians 60 days to reach a deal. Friday was day 61.
Netanyahu also said Israel had identified that, after Israeli strikes on Iran’s ballistic missile program last year, Tehran embarked on a program to create 300 ballistic missiles a month.
A handout picture made available by the Iranian IRGC office on January 11, 2025, shows Hossein Salami, left, head of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and Amir Ali Hajizadeh, head of the Guard’s air force, touring an underground missile base in an undisclosed location in Iran. (Iran’s Revolutionary Guards website/AFP)
Netanyahu said that would have left Israel facing an arsenal of thousands of missiles, each one topped with a ton of explosives that could be rained down on Israel.
“We decided we couldn’t wait anymore. We are at midnight,” he said.
No euphoria
Despite the success of Israel’s opening salvo, Netanyahu warned the public not to go into euphoria,” and to listen to instructions from authorities.
Iran will strike back, Netanyahu promised: “It will come,” he said, warning that there could be waves of strikes.
Netanyahu said Israel’s first strikes had been “very successful,” hitting a significant part of the Iranian military general staff and the leading nuclear scientists.
Israel destroyed the Natanz plant, according to Netanyahu. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency later said that Iran reported that a key aboveground component of Natanz was destroyed.
“At Natanz, the aboveground part of the Pilot Fuel Enrichment Plant, where Iran was producing uranium enriched up to 60 percent U-235, has been destroyed,” IAEA nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi told the UN Security Council.
Netanyahu acknowledged that Israel would face challenges dealing with sites such as the Fordo plant near the city of Qom, which is buried under a mountain, but said he would not go into details about how Israel will confront that challenge.
In addition to Natanz, the Air Force struck an Iranian nuclear facility near Isfahan, IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin revealed during a press conference.
“We will not allow Iran to advance toward a nuclear [bomb]. We will not allow the development of missiles intended to harm us,” he said.
His comments came after the Mehr news agency reported a “massive explosion” was heard in Isfahan, a major city in central Iran, in a province that is home to several nuclear facilities.
Besides the nuclear sites at Isfahan and Natanz, which Israel has confirmed targeting, there have also been reports and footage of an attack at Fordo.
The IAEA said it was aware of reports concerning Isfahan and Fordo and was seeking information from Iranian authorities regarding any potential impact. Iranian state media claimed limited damage at both sites.
“The damage was limited to areas that did not cause any urban damage in the case of Fordo… In Isfahan, there were also attacks on several points, which were related to warehouses that caught fire,” said agency spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi, adding that “the damage was not extensive and there is no cause for concern in terms of contamination.”
The New York Times reported late Friday that while the IDF acknowledged striking at laboratories at the Isfahan site that engage in work relating to the final stages of building a weapon, Israel curiously made no mention of targeting the largest Iranian stockpile of “near-bomb-grade nuclear fuel” that is believed to be stored there.
Social media video shows Iran’s Natanz facility for uranium enrichment after it was hit by Israeli airstrikes early on June 13, 2025, with Israeli defense officials assessing the damage was significant. (X screenshot; used in accordance with clause 27a of the copyright law)
Military alone cannot accomplish goal
Echoing Netanyahu, his national security adviser also acknowledged that Israel was unlikely to be able to completely destroy Iran’s nuclear program through military strikes.
Speaking to Channel 12, Tzachi Hanegbi said the overall goal of Israel’s campaign, rather, is to pressure Iran militarily into agreeing to completely dismantle its nuclear program.
Earlier Friday, Trump said that Iran still had another chance to strike a nuclear deal after Israel launched its ongoing attack.
Hanegbi also said that Israel does not intend to target Iran’s “political leadership” in this campaign.
However, Channel 12, citing unnamed senior officials, said that Israel had sent a warning to Iran that if civilian population centers were targeted in Iran’s response, Israel would attack the political leaders and major infrastructure, like oil refineries.
A man takes a picture of a building damaged in an Israeli strike on Tehran on June 13, 2025. (Photo by MEGHDAD MADADI / TASNIM NEWS / AFP)
Hanegbi specified that the goals of the ongoing operation, as approved by the cabinet, against Iran were four-fold: striking Iran’s nuclear program, striking its ballistic missile capabilities; attacking its capacity to destroy Israel via a ground attack; and creating the conditions for the long-term thwarting of Iran’s nuclear program via diplomatic means.
Asked if this meant that Israel does not have the goal of “the IDF destroying Iran’s nuclear program,” Hanegbi replies: “That’s not possible. It cannot be done via kinetic means.”
What is possible, he says, is a solution such as played out in Libya, South Africa and elsewhere, where “the balance of pros and cons” leads the leadership of a state to abandon its nuclear weapons efforts.
“Only the Americans can bring that about,” he said. “Only President Trump. He is capable of bringing about what is described as ‘a good deal’ — the model under which Iran, by its choice, gives up on nuclear weapons, pays considerable costs, gets lots of benefits… That’s the diplomatic expectation…”
US support
Netanyahu also addressed the issue of US support, saying that Israel would prefer to have US support, but would go it alone if there was no other choice.
“If we don’t attack, then it’s 100% that we will die,” he argued. “So even if it’s not perfect, we have to do it, because we have to change the direction of Iran’s military build-up, both its ballistic weapons and nuclear weapons.”
“US support, or at least US non-opposition, is something that is extremely desirable,” he continued.
Trump later reiterated that he thought Iran could still agree to a deal. Asked whether the strikes will jeopardize the ongoing negotiations, Trump tells Axios, “I don’t think so. Maybe the opposite. Maybe now they will negotiate seriously.”
He said Iran now has more of an incentive to reach a deal following Israel’s crippling strikes, noting that the IDF used “great American equipment” in the attack.
US President Donald Trump (L) raises a fist next to US First Lady Melania Trump during the Congressional Picnic on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC, on June 12, 2025. (Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP)
“I gave Iran 60 days, today is day 61… They should have made a deal,” Trump says. “I couldn’t get them to a deal in 60 days. They were close, they should have done it. Maybe now it will happen.”
Rise up
Speaking later, Netanyahu also addressed the Iranian people, calling on them to unite against what he described as an “evil and oppressive regime”, telling them Israel was engaged in “one of the greatest military operations in history.”
“The time has come for the Iranian people to unite around its flag and its historic legacy, by standing up for your freedom from the evil and oppressive regime,” Netanyahu said.
The ongoing military and intelligence operation raised the potential for all-out war between the countries and propelled the region, already on edge, into even greater upheaval.
Retaliation
Iran quickly retaliated by sending a swarm of drones and later also missiles at Israel, and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of “severe punishment.” Iran had been censured by the UN’s atomic watchdog a day earlier for not complying with obligations meant to prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon.
Countries in the region condemned Israel’s attack, while leaders around the globe called for immediate de-escalation from both sides. The UN Security Council scheduled an emergency meeting for Friday afternoon at Iran’s request.
In a letter to the council, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the killing of its officials and scientists “state terrorism” and affirmed his country’s right to self-defense. “Israel will come to deeply regret this reckless aggression and the grave strategic miscalculation it has made,” he said.
Israel’s military said about 200 aircraft were involved in the initial attack on about 100 targets. The Mossad spy agency positioned explosive drones and precision weapons inside Iran ahead of time, and used them to target Iranian air defenses and missile launchers near Tehran, according to two security officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.
An Israeli official rejected Iranian state media reports that Iran shot down two Israeli fighter jets as “fake news.”
“The reports circulating about two Israeli warplanes being shot down are fake news,” the official said on condition of anonymity.
In addition to the attacks on the nuclear sites, Israel said it destroyed dozens of radar installations and surface-to-air missile launchers in western Iran, along with other Iranian air force targets such as drones.
Additionally, the military said fighter jets bombed two airbases in western Iran earlier Friday.
The strikes hit airbases used by Iran’s air force near the cities of Hamadan and Tabriz, the IDF said, adding that the latter site was “destroyed” in the strikes.
Screenshot from footage released by the Mossad showing strikes carried out by commandos of the Israeli spy agency on Iranian air defenses in Iran, early July 13, 2025. (Mossad screenshot)
The first wave of strikes had given Israel “significant freedom of movement” in Iran’s skies, clearing the way for further attacks, according to an Israeli military official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss details of the attack with the media.
The official said Israel is prepared for an operation that could last up to two weeks, but that there was no firm timeline and it would depend largely on how Iran responds.
Among those killed were three of Iran’s top military leaders: one who oversaw the entire armed forces, Gen. Mohammad Bagheri; one who led the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, Gen. Hossein Salami; and the head of the Guard’s ballistic missile program, Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh.
Iran confirmed all three deaths, significant blows to its governing theocracy that will complicate efforts to retaliate. Khamenei said other top military officials and scientists were also killed.
Top (L-R): IRGC chief Hossein Salami; head of the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Gholam Ali Rashid; Bottom (L-R): IRGC air force chief Amir Ali Hajizadeh; Iran’s Armed Forces chief Mohammad Hossein Bagheri. All were reported killed in Israeli strikes on Iran, June 13, 2025. (IRGC; Tasnim News; Courtesy)
In its first response Friday, Iran fired more than 100 drones at Israel. Israel said the drones were being intercepted outside its airspace, and it was not immediately clear whether any got through.
Later Friday, Iran fired at least two salvos of dozens of missiles. IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said fewer than 100 ballistic missiles were fired from Iran at Israel in the two barrages. Most of the missiles were intercepted by air defenses or fell short before reaching the country.
Traces are seen over Jerusalem during an Iranian missile attack alert, Friday, June 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Ohad Zwigenberg)
“There are a limited number of impacts on buildings, some were caused by interception fragments,” he said.
Over 60 people were wounded in the missile attack, according to medical officials. One person was listed in critical condition, another was seriously hurt, while eight others were moderately injured. The rest were lightly hurt or suffering acute anxiety.
The victims were taken to Beilinson, Sourasky, and Sheba hospitals in central Israel.
Israel’s military also said it called up reservists and began stationing troops in “all combat arenas” throughout the country as it braced for further retaliation from Iran or Iranian proxy groups on its border.
Khamenei, the Iranian Supreme Leader, said in a statement that Israel “opened its wicked and blood-stained hand to a crime in our beloved country, revealing its malicious nature more than ever by striking residential centers.”
First responders evacuate a victim from a building hit by a missile fired from Iran, in Ramat Gan near Tel Aviv on June 13, 2025. (Photo by Jack GUEZ / AFP)
The potential for an attack had been apparent for weeks as angst built over Iran’s nuclear program.
Israel has long been determined to prevent Iran — which routinely calls for Israel’s destruction — from developing nuclear weapons, a concern laid bare on Thursday when the International Atomic Energy Agency for the first time in 20 years censured Iran over its refusal to work with its inspectors. Iran immediately announced it would establish a third enrichment site and install more advanced centrifuges.
Even so, there are multiple assessments on how many nuclear weapons Iran could conceivably build, should it choose to do so. Iran would need months to assemble, test and field any weapon, which it so far has said it has no desire to do. US intelligence agencies also assess that Iran does not have a weapons program at this time. However, Netanyahu said Friday that Israel had identified tangible steps Iran has been taking toward weaponization, beyond just uranium enrichment.
END
SATURDAY AFTERNOON
this is big news!! they jkust hit south Pars field!!
Israel reportedly strikes Iranian gas field, oil refinery
Iran’s largest natural gas field catches fire in reported Israeli drone strike
Iranian state media Fars said that the gas field, Iran’s largest natural gas production facility, was hit by a “small aircraft resembling a drone.”
A general view shows a unit of South Pars Gas field in Asalouyeh Seaport, north of Persian Gulf, Iran November 19, 2015(photo credit: REUTERS/RAHEB HOMAVANDI/TIMA)ByJERUSALEM POST STAFFJUNE 14, 2025 19:03Updated: JUNE 14, 2025 19:27
Fire broke out at the South Pars gas field in Iran’s southern Bushehr region on Saturday, Iranian media said amid reported Israeli strikes in the area.
Iranian state media Fars said that the gas field, Iran’s largest natural gas production facility, was hit by a “small aircraft resembling a drone,” citing local witnesses.
Iranian firefighters were trying to control the blaze at the gas field, Iranian media further reported.
Iranian state media ISNA reported that the Israeli strike targeted phase 18, one of the gas field’s offshore platforms.
Piles of smoke were also seen on Saturday in Iran’s oil refinery in Abadan, off the coast of the Persian Gulf, amid reported strikes by the IDF.
Smoke rises near Iran’s Abadan refinery, as seen from al-Siba district on the Iraqi side of the border, in Basra, Iraq, June 14, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/STRINGER)
This is a developing story.
end
Iranian media confirms death Khamenei’s top advisor in Israeli strikes
Iranian state media confirmed on Saturday evening the killing of Ali Shamkhani, the top advisor to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in Israeli strikes on a “sensitive military center” in western Iran on Friday.
Shamkhani is the latest in a line of top military advisors, commanders, and other personnel killed in Israeli strikes on Iranian targets since early Friday morning.
Shamkhani served as one of Iran’s top military officials for decades, serving as defense minister between 1997 and 2005 and as secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council from 2013 to 2023.
This is a developing story.
end
editorial/a must read!!
Israel acted – now it’s time for the Iranian people to rise – editorial
Zionism has never begged for survival and it will not start now. The question is whether the long-suffering citizens of Iran are ready to seize a parallel opportunity for their own freedom.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei looks on, in a televised message following the Israeli strikes in Tehran, Iran, June 13, 2025.(photo credit: Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/WANA via REUTERS)ByJPOST EDITORIALJUNE 15, 2025 01:01Updated: JUNE 15, 2025 01:12
For 46 long years – ever since Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini hijacked a popular revolution and erected the Islamic Republic – the Iranian people have lived under a regime that feeds on fear.
In the past 48 hours that fear shifted sharply: first to the men in Tehran’s palaces, then to the missile crews who discovered what happens when Israel decides to act. Operation Rising Lion – the IDF’s audacious strike on Iran’s nuclear and military machine – has redrawn the strategic map of the Middle East, and it has given ordinary Iranians a once-in-a-generation opening.
JPost Videos
Zionism never begged for survival, won’t start now
Zionism has never begged for survival and it will not start now. The question is whether the long-suffering citizens of Iran are ready to seize a parallel opportunity for their own freedom.
WOMEN, THEIR faces painted with the colors of Iran’s flag, take part in a protest to show solidarity with the Iranian people, in Brussels, earlier this year. (credit: REUTERS/JOHANNA GERON)
From the first pre-dawn explosions over Isfahan on Friday to the final intercept above the Galilee on Saturday morning, the Israel Defense Forces performed what IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir rightly called “an unprecedented achievement.”
More than 100 Israeli aircraft struck underground enrichment halls at Natanz, air force bases at Tabriz and Hamadan, and command hubs in Tehran itself. Simultaneously, Mossad agents sabotaged air-defense nodes and missile depots deep inside the Islamic Republic. Revolutionary Guard chief Hossein Salami, armed-forces chief Mohammad Bagheri, and a string of nuclear scientists were eliminated, according to Israeli assessments reported by The Jerusalem Post.
No less impressive was the speed with which Israel’s notoriously fractious politics coalesced. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave opposition leaders Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz full briefings before the first jets took off.
Both men, who have sparred bitterly with the coalition on domestic matters, put out statements of unequivocal support. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Labor leader Merav Michaeli rarely find themselves in the same headline; on Friday they did, praising the professionalism of the IDF and praying for its success.
The Knesset, which only weeks ago was paralyzed by protests over domestic legislation, rose in unison to applaud the pilots. When the Home Front Command ordered citizens into shelters, they went – Left, Right, secular, haredi, Arab and Jewish alike.
That unity is a strategic asset. Israel’s greatest victories – 1948, 1967, Entebbe, the 1981 Osirak raid – were born of moments when the home front told its soldiers: “Go and we will back you.” Once again, we see the power of a society that argues ferociously on Thursday and fights shoulder-to-shoulder on Friday.
We turn now to Tehran, Shiraz, Mashhad, and Tabriz. The regime has invested your wealth in proxy militias from Gaza to Sana’a, in ballistic-missile factories and terror plots from Buenos Aires to Burgas. It promised glory and delivered isolation, inflation, poisoned rivers, and the world’s highest per-capita execution rate. In 2022, you chanted “Zan, Zendegi, Azadi” – “Woman, Life, Freedom” – and the Revolutionary Guards answered with bullets. Now the guards have discovered that they, too, can bleed.
Rise up – seize this moment
Rise up. Seize this moment with both hands. Millions of Israelis spent Friday night in bomb shelters exchanging WhatsApp messages with friends inside Iran, offering prayers and solidarity. We are not at war with the Iranian people; we are at war with a clique that murders Syrians, Yemenis, Israelis – and Iranians – every day. Zionism teaches that dignity is never granted; it is taken. Today, after the most daring Israeli operation since Entebbe, that lesson should feel concrete.
The path will be hard – tyrannies rarely crumble overnight – but the IDF has exposed the regime’s raw nerve. Its air defenses failed; its missiles achieved little; its myths are shattered. Even Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei felt compelled to promise revenge “at a time of our choosing” – a formulation that almost always signals weakness.
Operation Rising Lion is not over; Netanyahu has vowed to continue “until the Iranian threat is removed.” Israeli analysts think further strikes on Fordow and Parchin are likely if Tehran rebuilds.
The hope we extend now is to the Iranian people: Do not be afraid. The 46 you have suffered is long enough. The axis of evil that linked Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Quds Force is much weaker today than it was on Thursday. Help yourselves and you will find partners across the region, from Riyadh to Rabat to – yes – Jerusalem.
“Am Yisrael Chai” – the Nation of Israel lives. May a free people of Iran soon be able to say the same about their own nation.
END
Iran’s miscalculation enabled Israel to eliminate top officials, report shows
Officials speaking with The New York Times say regime was ‘shocked’ by Israeli capabilities, with Khamenei aware that all-out war could end his rule
The Iranian regime’s security chain of command that has been eliminated by Israeli strikes, June 14, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)
Though it was aware of Israeli preparations for a possible strike on its nuclear facilities, Iran did not expect Jerusalem to launch such an attack while nuclear negotiations with the US were still ongoing, allowing for the exceptional success of the Israeli offensive early on Friday morning, The New York Times reported on Saturday.
Citing officials close to Iran’s leadership, the report said Tehran assumed that no attack would occur before the sixth round of US-Iran talks, scheduled for Sunday, June 15, in Oman. It is now unclear if the talks will take place in the wake of the bombardment, with Tehran indicating it was likely to cancel.
According to The Times, the Iranians assumed that reports of an imminent Israeli threat were propaganda intended to pressure them into making concessions in the negotiations on its nuclear program.
The officials told The Times that the complacency may have prevented planned precautions against an Israeli attack from being enacted. For example, senior military commanders stayed in their private homes on Thursday night instead of in safe shelters, allowing Israel to kill senior officials, including Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami and Armed Forces chief Mohammad Hossein Bagheri.
Top (L-R): IRGC chief Hossein Salami; head of the Khatam-al Anbiya Central Headquarters, Gholam Ali Rashid; Bottom (L-R): IRGC air force chief Amir Ali Hajizadeh; Iran’s Armed Forces chief Mohammad Hossein Bagheri. All were reported killed in Israeli strikes on Iran, June 13, 2025. (IRGC; Tasnim News; Courtesy)
In another oversight in the chaos of the attack, Brig. Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps Aerospace Forces, gathered his senior staff together for an emergency war meeting. They were then eliminated in an Israeli bombing.
The Times report revealed private text messages exchanged between senior Iranian officials in which they angrily asked one another, “Where is our air defense?” and “How can Israel come and attack anything it wants, kill our top commanders, and we are incapable of stopping it?”
Rescue teams work outside a heavily damaged building following an Israeli strike in the Iranian capital of Tehran, June 13, 2025. (AFP)
According to the report, the officials also questioned what failures in defense and intelligence had led Iran to not foresee the Israeli offensive and the resulting damage.
“Israel’s attack completely caught the leadership by surprise, especially the killing of the top military figures and nuclear scientists,” said Hamid Hosseini, a member of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce’s energy committee, in a telephone interview with The Times from Iran. “It also exposed our lack of proper air defense and their ability to bombard our critical sites and military bases with no resistance.”
Hosseini added that Iranian officials were shocked by Israel’s ability to infiltrate Iran’s military and security apparatus.
The report also cited two Iranian officials who were familiar with discussions after the attacks led by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in which Khamenei said that he sought revenge against Israel but did not want to act hastily.
According to the officials, there were disagreements about the proper response to the strikes and whether Iran could sustain a prolonged war with Israel, especially considering the possibility of US intervention and the damage Jerusalem had caused to Tehran’s missile and defense capabilities.
One official reportedly said at the meeting that an Israeli attack on Iran’s energy or water infrastructure could cause riots to break out.
An IRGC member briefed on the meeting told The Times that the officials understood that Khamenei had to decide between all-out war that could risk ending his decades-long reign, or retreating, which would be interpreted as accepting defeat domestically and internationally.
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei speaks in the capital Tehran, June 13, 2025. Above him is a portrait of his late predecessor Ruhollah Khomeini. (KHAMENEI.IR / AFP)
“Khamanei faces no good options,” Ali Vaez, Iran project director at the International Crisis Group, told The Times. “If he escalates, he risks inviting a more devastating Israeli attack that the US could join. If he doesn’t, he risks hollowing out his regime or losing power.”
Israel’s attack on Iran on Friday targeted the country’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile infrastructure, air defenses and top security officials.
Israel says the purpose of its offensive is to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Tehran denies such a desire, but the country has enriched uranium to levels that have no peaceful application and has consistently affirmed its intention to destroy Israel.
end
IDF spokesperson: Israel bombed underground Iranian facility storing dozens of missiles
The Israeli Air Force bombed an underground weapons facility in western Iran today, IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin reveals in a press conference.
According to the IDF, the site was used by Iran to store dozens of ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as launch them. IAF fighter jets struck the underground site along with launchers.
“The site had previously been revealed in a propaganda video released by the Iranian regime,” the IDF says.
The video shows Mohammad Bagheri, the Armed Forces chief of staff and IRGC Air Force chief Brig. Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, who were both killed in Israeli strikes on Friday.
The Shahran oil depot near Tehran was targeted in an Israeli attack on Saturday night, sources confirmed to The Jerusalem Post.
Targets in Saturday night’s attacks on Tehran included not only an oil facility, but also sites associated with the nuclear program and command and control centers.
Defense Minister Israel Katz said, “Tehran is ablaze” on X/Twitter as footage circulated on social media from the outcome of the strikes.
Iran confirmed that the oil depot was targeted, but claimed that the “situation was under control.”
June 14, 2025 (SOCIAL MEDIA/SECTION 27A OF THE COPYRIGHT ACT)“
The fuel volume in the targeted tank was not high, and the situation is fully under control,” Iran’s oil ministry’s SHANA news agency reported.
The Shahran oil depot consists of 11 tanks that produce around seven million liters of oil a day, around 260 million liters in total.
This is a developing story. Reuters contributed to this report.
The Shahran oil depot near Tehran was targeted in an Israeli attack on Saturday night, sources confirmed to The Jerusalem Post.
Targets in Saturday night’s attacks on Tehran included not only an oil facility, but also sites associated with the nuclear program and command and control centers.
Defense Minister Israel Katz said, “Tehran is ablaze” on X/Twitter as footage circulated on social media from the outcome of the strikes.
Iran confirmed that the oil depot was targeted, but claimed that the “situation was under control.”
https://player.jpost.com/public/player.html?player=jpost&media=3911594&url=www.jpost.comFire is seen in Tehran following a strike on the Shehran oil depot, June 14, 2025 (SOCIAL MEDIA/SECTION 27A OF THE COPYRIGHT ACT)“The fuel volume in the targeted tank was not high, and the situation is fully under control,” Iran’s oil ministry’s SHANA news agency reported.
The Shahran oil depot consists of 11 tanks that produce around seven million liters of oil a day, around 260 million liters in total.
This is a developing story. Reuters contributed to this report.
end
SATURDAY NIGHT
‘The deepest we have struck in Iran’: Defrin updates Israel has struck hundreds of Iranian targets
Defrin “could not disclose” whether Khamenei is one of Israel’s strike targets when asked by a reporter.
Rescuers work at the site of a damaged building, in the aftermath of Israeli strikes, in location given as Borujerd, Iran, in this screen grab from a handout video released on June 14, 2025.(photo credit: Iranian Red Crescent Society/Handout via REUTERS)ByJERUSALEM POST STAFFJUNE 14, 2025 21:44
IDF Spokesman Brig.-Gen. Effie Defrin said Saturday evening that Israel has struck over 150 targets and over 400 different components in Operation Rising Lion, which began Friday.
Defrin said that missile infrastructure, air defense systems, and nuclear-related facilities were targeted. He “could not disclose” whether Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is one of Israel’s strike targets when asked by a reporter.
Overnight, over 70 Israeli fighter jets launched a significant strike on targets in Tehran, the capital of Iran and the heart of the regime. “The path to Tehran has been paved,” Defrin said. The IDF struck over 40 missile-related targets, including advanced air defense systems, command-and-control infrastructure, and launch platforms.
Israeli aircraft remained over Tehran for approximately two and a half hours, supported by drones in constant operation to maintain control of the area and assist with targeting and intelligence. Dozens of aerial assets operated freely over the city, made possible by initial strikes that neutralized key Iranian air defense systems, Defrin said.
“This is the first time our aircraft have operated in this region – this is the deepest we have struck in Iran to date,” Defrin noted. “We created aerial freedom of movement in western Iran, all the way to Tehran, which enables us to operate and neutralize threats to the State of Israel.”
IDF spokesperson Brig.-Gen. Effie Defrin is seen in a switch-over ceremony in Tel Aviv, Israel, March 27, 2025 (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON’S UNIT)
Why Israel must strike Tehran
He emphasized the strategic and operational significance of reaching Tehran. “Our pilots are acting with professionalism under risk. The Air Force and Military Intelligence Directorate have prepared for this for years.”
Defrin stated that Tehran is no longer immune and that its capital and regime institutions are now exposed.
On Friday night, the IDF also struck a nuclear facility in the Isfahan region. The site, according to Defrin, was used by the Iranian regime to develop infrastructure for uranium conversion, a key step in the process of producing a nuclear weapon. The site housed facilities for manufacturing metallic uranium, as well as infrastructure for converting enriched uranium, laboratories, and other components.
Defrin said this was a significant blow to Iran’s nuclear ambitions: “The destruction of these components constitutes a major setback in Iran’s ability to progress toward a nuclear weapon.”
“We cannot allow weapons of mass destruction in the hands of a regime whose stated goal is our destruction,” he added.
Impact on Israel and returning hostages
Turning to the Israeli home front, Defrin praised the resilience of civilians and noted that three Israeli citizens were killed and 76 wounded in Iranian missile strikes on civilian areas on Friday. “Your composure is commendable,” he said, extending condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a speedy recovery to the wounded. The toll of those wounded has since risen to over 200.
He stressed that Israel’s multi-layered air defense systems are active and intercepting threats, though not hermetic. “In the most recent barrages, there were a small number of direct hits that caused casualties and damage.”
Rescue and emergency services, including the IDF’s Home Front Command, Magen David Adom, the Israel Police, and local authorities, remain alert and are deployed across the country. Defrin urged the public to follow Home Front Command instructions and not to share images or locations of missile impacts, warning that such posts aid the enemy.
He noted that alongside the strikes in Iran, IDF forces are actively engaged in combat in Gaza and other arenas. Despite the intensity of operations, he emphasized that the IDF remains focused on its top priority.
“The hostages remain at the forefront of our thoughts,” he said. “We will continue to do everything necessary to bring them home.”
END
SATURDAY NIGHT IN ARAB CITY TAMRA:
FIVE KILLED IN ARAB CITY TAMRA //THEY LACKED BOMB SHELTERS
Five killed near Haifa as Iranian missile barrage targets northern Israel
Five others injured as deadly Saturday night salvo from Islamic Republic hits Tamra, an Arab city where residents have warned about lack of bomb shelters
Footage shows an Iranian ballistic missile attack on northern Israel, June 14, 2025. (X; used in accordance with clause 27a of the copyright law)
Iran on Saturday night launched a barrage of dozens of ballistic missiles at Israel, with one missile impacting in the Arab city of Tamra, east of Haifa, killing three people and injuring at least seven others, medics said.
The barrage was Iran’s first since the early morning hours.
The salvo sent most of the country into shelters, with Home Front Command pushing phone alerts shortly after 11 p.m., but sirens were then only activated in the north and the Haifa area, as air defenses were activated to intercept the incoming attack.
One missile struck a two-story home in Tamra, killing five people and wounding five. One of the victims was reportedly a woman aged around 20.
Residents of the Arab Israeli city have long warned that there is a dearth of bomb shelters in the area, and that almost no homes have a safe room attached.
At around 11:45 p.m., Home Front Command gave the all-clear for people to leave shelters, though more barrages were expected overnight.
Emergency services are seen at a residential building in Tamra, northern Israel, which sustained a direct strike during an Iranian ballistic missile attack, on June 15, 2025. (Israel Fire and Rescue Service)
A video circulating on social media on Saturday showed a Jewish family cheering as Iranian ballistic missiles fall in the Arab Israeli city of Tamra — sparking outrage from many officials.
“On the village, on the village!” a man can be heard shouting in the clip. He and others then broke into singing the anti-Arab phrase “may your village burn,” clapping their hands as missiles rain down on the neighboring city.
A number of politicians condemned the video and other similar social media posts.
Labor MK Naama Lazimi wrote on X that there is “nothing human, Jewish or Israeli” about lauding a strike on an Arab town — “shameful and disgusting.”
Deputy Tel Aviv Mayor Asaf Zamir said such celebrations “make me nauseated and I am ashamed of you.”
Hadash-Ta’al party chief Ayman Odeh wrote that such expressions were “the voices of Netanyahu, Ben Gvir and Smotrich, the warmongers and everyone who supports them.” He added that “these racists should be investigated and arrested.”
Iran had launched three major barrages of ballistic missiles at Israel Friday night and early Saturday morning. Some 80 people were reported hurt in the strikes, including three people who were critically injured and later succumbed to their wounds in the cities of Ramat Gan and Rishon Lezion. According to Magen David Adom, several more people were seriously hurt. The rest were lightly to moderately injured or suffered acute anxiety.
The three fatalities in Ramat Gan and Rishon Lezion were named Saturday as Etti Cohen Engel, Yisrael Aloni and Yevgenia Blinder.
Iranian media claimed hundreds of missiles were fired in the first barrage late Friday, while the Israel Defense Forces estimated that the actual number in all the attacks stood at some 200.
The three waves of attacks Friday overnight each consisted of dozens of missiles, according to the IDF, which declined to provide a specific number.
The IDF has called on the public not to publish the locations or footage of missile impacts. “The enemy monitors the footage to improve its attack capabilities,” the military said.
The enmity between Israel and Iran escalated into an unprecedented open conflict in the early hours of Friday morning as Israel launched a major offensive against Iran and its nuclear program, hitting nuclear sites, missile bases and top military officials.
Israel said it had no choice but to attack Iran, adding that it had gathered intelligence that Tehran was approaching “the point of no return” in its pursuit of a nuclear weapon.
The Israeli operation was expected to last several days at least, according to military officials, who added that the IDF was preparing for heavy fire from Iran, but asserted that “at the end of the operation, there will be no nuclear threat” from the Islamic Republic.
END’
SATURDAY NIGHT: ISRAEL THREATENS IRAN:
ByAMICHAI STEINJUNE 14, 2025 21:43Updated: JUNE 14, 2025 22:40
Israel conveyed a message in the last 24 hours to Iran that it would strike strategic infrastructure across the country if the Islamic Republic targets civilian population centers in Israel, sources with knowledge told The Jerusalem Post on Saturday.
Senior Israeli officials held discussions with top Trump administration officials, expressing interest in US participation in a strike on nuclear facilities.
“We hope this will ultimately come to pass,” an Israeli source told the Post.
Some 204 people have already been wounded by Iranian attacks, and three killed in Iran’s attacks on Israel launched on Friday evening, Magen David Adom said.
Missiles struck in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Rishon Lezion.
A rescue personnel walks next to a damaged vehicle at an impact site following missile attack from Iran on Israel, in Ramat Gan, Israel, June 14, 2025 (credit: RONEN ZVULUN/REUTERS)
Iran’s attack on Friday evening continued into the early hours of Saturday morning, launching five waves of missiles.
Israel strikes key nuclear and military targets
Meanwhile, Israel has already struck the Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities and oil fields, as well as killing senior IRGC and Iranian military commanders.
The IDF also announced on Saturday that IAF fighter jets struck an underground missile storage facility in western Iran on Saturday morning.
The jets struck the site, containing surface-to-surface missiles and cruise missiles, after receiving guidance from the Intelligence Directorate.
The same site was where Tehran previously released a propaganda video with the former chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces and the former commander of the IRGC Air Force.
THEN LATE SATURDAY//MISSILE
A MISSILE SLAMS IN THE SOUTH, BET YAM AND REHOVOT/SOUTH OF TEL AVIV:
Death toll in Iranian missile impact on Bat Yam building rises to 3
Israeli security forces inspect a destroyed building that was hit by a missile fired from Iran, in Bat Yam, early Sunday, June 15, 2025. (AP/Ohad Zwigenberg)
Three people have been confirmed dead after a missile fired by Iran struck a building in Bat Yam earlier this morning, police say.
Those killed are a woman in her 60s, a woman in her 70s and a child aged 13, according to Magen David Adom.
According to first responders, more than 130 people in total were wounded in the two impact sites in both Bat Yam and Rehovot, including a number who were seriously injured.
The building in Bat Yam is in danger of collapsing, say first responders.
END
Seven killed, over 130 wounded in Israel from Iranian fire, IDF says soldier killed in Gaza combat
Ten Israelis killed, at least 270 wounded across two days of Iranian strikes • Drone intrusion sirens blare in northern Israel • IDF targets top Houthi military leader
Home Front Command soldiers operate and assist at the scenes of an Iranian missile attack across Israel, June 15, 2025.(photo credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON’S UNIT)
June 15, 4:26 PM
MORE DIED IN THE TWO HITS ON ISRAEL/SUNDAY MORNING
Seven killed, at least 130 wounded/35 MISSING in two direct hits in central Israel
The Home Front Command has estimated that some 35 people are still missing as searches continue.
Central Israel following Iranian missile attack, June 15 2025(photo credit: AVSHALOM SASSONI)BySHIR PERETSJUNE 15, 2025 02:58Updated: JUNE 15, 2025 08:53
Seven people were killed following the Iranian missile barrage on central Israel, and as of Sunday morning, two additional bodies have been recovered from a collapsed building in Bat Yam.
Two women, one 10-year-old boy, and one 8-year-old girl have been killed, and at least 130 injuries have been reported following the latest Iranian missile barrage on Israel early Sunday morning, Magen David Adom announced.
A mass casualty event has been declared at one of the impact sites in central Israel. Additionally, the Home Front Command has estimated that some 35 people are still missing as searches continue.
Loud blasts were heard consistently across central Israel as Iran fired waves of ballistic missiles toward the country.
MDA also reported receiving several calls of suspected rocket impacts across central Israel.
Missiles launched from Iran towards Israel are seen from Tubas, in the West Bank, June 14, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/RANEEN SAWAFTA)
Iran and Yemen carried out a series of both missile and drone attacks on Israel, the IDF confirmed.
Multiple shrapnel falls were reported in Dan, Central, and Jerusalem districts, including, among other things, damage to residential buildings and a number of fires in open areas as a result of falls, Israel’s Fire and Rescue Authority confirmed.
Substantial damage was caused to streets where the impact was felt across central Israeli cities, as seen in footage shared on social media.
Kaplan Hospital reported it had received 17 of the wounded, with one in serious condition.
Edith Wolfson Medical Center reported it had received 32 of the wounded, three in serious condition.
Tel Aviv Ichilov Medical Center reported it had received 25 of the wounded, including one baby.
“With the assistance of additional medical teams, we have so far provided assistance to over 20 victims. One is in serious condition, and three are in moderate condition. The rest are in mild condition. Some are children and the elderly. These are extensive areas of destruction,” a United Hatzalah medic said.
Northern Israel barrage kills five
Five people were killed and at least 24 were wounded following an Iranian missile barrage on northern Israel earlier Saturday night, Magen David Adom said.
A 20-year-old woman died due to the direct impact of a ballistic missile on her northern Israel home.
Firefighters rescued four people from a three-story building in the North, but confirmed that two of them died on the scene.
Later, another woman who was rescued from the building was pronounced dead at the hospital.
A number of trapped people were rescued following a rocket fall in the Galilee, and emergency and rescue forces continue to work to rule out the presence of additional trapped people among the rubble and to bring the scene under control.See more on
ISRAEL HOUTHIS
IDF targets Houthi chief of staff in Yemen strikes, military confirms to ‘Post’
“We will soon know if it succeeded,” an Israeli source told The Jerusalem Post.
Houthi protesters hold weapons during a demonstration in Sanaa, Yemen, May 30, 2025(photo credit: REUTERS/Adel Al Khader)ByYONAH JEREMY BOB, AMICHAI STEINJUNE 14, 2025 23:46Updated: JUNE 15, 2025 09:12
The IDF conducted strikes in Yemen on Saturday night in an attempted targeted attack on senior Houthi military leader, Muhammad Abd al-Karim al-Ghamari, IDF sources confirmed to The Jerusalem Post.
“We will soon know if it succeeded,” an Israeli source told the Post.
The IDF is also striking targets in Tehran simultaneously with efforts to intercept a wave of ballistic missiles from Iran, the military said.
This is a developing story.
END
Behind the scenes: Iran turns to mediators in attempt to broker ceasefire – new details
A senior US administration official told the Post on Saturday, “We remain committed to negotiations and hope the Iranians will come to the table soon.”
Fire of Israeli attack on Sharan Oil depot is seen following the Israeli strikes on Iran, in Tehran, Iran, June 15, 2025.(photo credit: MAJID ASGARIPOUR/WANA (WEST ASIA NEWS AGENCY) VIA REUTERS)ByAMICHAI STEINJUNE 15, 2025 09:49
Iran has reached out to Oman and Qatar, requesting that they mediate with Washington in an effort to halt the ongoing Israeli strikes and restart nuclear talks, a source familiar with the matter told The Jerusalem Post.
At the same time, Saudi Arabia is also working behind the scenes to promote a ceasefire framework aimed at resuming talks, the source added.
These Iranian efforts come amid clear messages from Washington: only full Iranian acceptance of the American proposal, which includes a complete halt to uranium enrichment, will lead to an end to Israeli military operations.
“We could easily reach an agreement between Iran and Israel, and end this bloody conflict!!!” US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on Sunday.
A senior US administration official told the Post on Saturday, “We remain committed to negotiations and hope the Iranians will come to the table soon.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani said overnight: “As long as the Zionist regime continues its attacks on the Iranian nation, participating in talks with its biggest supporter and partner (the United States) is meaningless.”
In Israel, officials hope that Iran’s rejection of the US proposal will ultimately lead Washington to join Israel’s military campaign. According to a senior Israeli official speaking to the Post, “We hope this will happen eventually.”
END
IDF warns Iranians near arms plants to evacuate as strikes batter country for 3rd day
Military says it is hunting ballistic missile launchers aimed at Israel, striking nuclear program targets; Katz warns Iranian leadership is turning Tehran into Beirut
A plume of heavy smoke rises over an oil refinery in southern of Tehran, after it was hit in an overnight Israeli strike, on June 15, 2025. (Photo by Atta KENARE / AFP)
The military issued an unprecedented evacuation warning on Sunday for Iranian civilians to evacuate areas around weapons factories, as the operation against Tehran’s nuclear program continued for a third day.
“All individuals currently present or expected to be present in or around military weapons manufacturing facilities and their supporting institutions must immediately evacuate these areas and not return until further notice,” the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesman, Col. Avichay Adraee, said on X.
“Being near these facilities puts your life at risk,” he added, with the IDF Persian-language spokesman Master Sgt. (res.) Kamal Penhasi also issuing the same warning on the military’s Persian X account.
Explosions continued to echo across Tehran and elsewhere in the country on Sunday, but there was no update to a death toll put out the day before by Iran’s UN ambassador, who said 78 people had been killed and more than 320 wounded since the beginning of Israel’s strikes on Friday.
The Israeli Air Force overnight bombed several Iranian ballistic missile launchers, along with air defense systems and radars, the military said, attaching footage of the strikes.
According to the IDF, some of the launchers that were struck were used to fire missiles at Israel overnight, in barrages that killed at least 10 people.
חיל האוויר תקף באיראן לאורך כל הלילה והשמיד משגרי טילי קרקע-קרקע חמושים המוכנים לשיגור. בסגירת מעגל מהירה, חיל האוויר תקף גם משגרים ששיגרו טילים לעבר מדינת ישראל.
בנוסף, הותקפו תשתיות טילי קרקע-אוויר ומכ"מי גילוי של המשטר האיראני באיראן, כחלק מהעליונות האווירית של צה״ל בשמי… pic.twitter.com/s4igW92z3V
The IDF said it will continue to “hunt down” ballistic missile launchers in western Iran to prevent attacks on Israel.
Air defenses and radars were also struck “as part of the IDF’s aerial superiority in Iranian airspace,” the military said.
במהלך הלילה: זוהו והותקפו משגרי טילים באיראן – חיל האוויר השלים בשעה האחרונה גל תקיפה נוסף במערב איראן לעבר תשתיות לאחסון ולשיגור טילים pic.twitter.com/CLB5ciRYVp
What is claimed to have been a military drone factory in the city of Isfahan was targeted and destroyed earlier by a strike from the Israeli Air Force. pic.twitter.com/VcieqhMrE3
Additionally, some 80 targets in Tehran were hit overnight, according to the IDF.
The targets in the Iranian capital included fuel depots, the Iranian defense ministry headquarters, the “headquarters of the SPND nuclear project,” and other targets related to Iran’s nuclear program.
IAF fighter jets also hit gas infrastructure near Bandar Abbas. The military said the fuel and gas sites are used by Iran for military purposes and for its nuclear project.
On Saturday, jets attacked two fuel depots in Tehran, while Iranian media reported a “massive explosion” following an Israeli drone strike on the South Pars gas field.
The semi-official Tasnim news agency said production of 12 million cubic meters of gas was suspended following the South Pars attack, which resulted in a fire that the Iranian oil ministry said was later extinguished.
Oil fields — crucial to Iran’s economy — were not targeted in the first round of strikes, but a senior Israeli security official warned on Friday that if Iran were to target Israeli population centers with ballistic missiles — which it then did — Israel would target regime leaders and state infrastructure such as oil refineries.
In all, since early Friday, the IDF said it hit 720 separate assets in some 250 strikes in Iran.
Video sent to Iran International shows fire raging for a second day at Shiraz Electronics Industries factory — amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. pic.twitter.com/xNfHVS5gkN
— Iran International English (@IranIntl_En) June 15, 2025
Iranian media said Sunday that Israel attacked a facility affiliated with Iran’s defense ministry in the central city of Isfahan.
“One of the centers affiliated with the Ministry of Defense in Isfahan was attacked, and possible damages are under investigation,” ISNA news agency reported, quoting deputy provincial governor Akbar Salehi.
Iranian media also reported strikes on the Shiraz Electronics factory in the city of Shiraz, a company that produces radar and electronic equipment for the Iranian military, according to a US-based watchdog. According to CNN, the facility was destroyed.
Iran claimed Sunday it had arrested two individuals it accused of being members of the Mossad spy agency in Alborz province while they were preparing explosives and electronic devices, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday.
Israel, Iran, trade threats
After the IDF warned Iranians to evacuate military facilities in Iran, Defense Minister Israel Katz said Sunday the military “will strike the sites and continue to peel the skin off the Iranian snake in Tehran and everywhere, stripping it of nuclear capabilities and weapons systems.”
“The Iranian dictator is turning Tehran into Beirut and its residents into hostages for the sake of his regime’s survival,” he added.
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said that the attacks on Israel will only end once Israel halts its military campaign against the Islamic Republic.
“We are defending ourselves; our defense is entirely legitimate,” said Araghchi in a meeting with foreign diplomats, adding that “this defense is our response to aggression. If the aggression stops, naturally our responses will also stop.”
He said that the Israeli strikes on the offshore South Pars gas field Iran shares with Qatar were “a blatant aggression and a very dangerous act.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi (C) gives a statement during his visit to the mausoleum of slain Lebanese Hezbollah’s Leader Hassan Nasrallah, in Beirut’s southern suburbs, Lebanon, on June 3, 2025. (Anwar AMRO / AFP)
“Dragging the conflict to the Persian Gulf is a strategic mistake, and it aims to drag the war beyond Iranian territory,” he said.
Conflict to take ‘weeks, not days,’ officials say
The conflict with Iran will take “weeks, not days,” according to American and Israeli officials quoted by CNN.
The officials said the operation has the White House’s implicit approval, with an Israeli official cited as saying the US president is on board with the weeks-long timeframe.
“The Trump administration firmly believes this can be solved by continuing negotiations with the US,” with the exact length of the conflict dependent on Iran’s actions, a US official was quoted as saying.
IDF Home Front Command forces at the scene where a ballistic missile fired from Iran hit and caused damage in Bat Yam, central Israel. June 15, 2025. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)
Years of hostility between Israel and Iran exploded into open conflict early Friday morning when Israel launched a major offensive against Iran and its nuclear program, hitting nuclear sites, missile bases and top military officials.
Israel said it had no choice but to attack Iran, and that it had gathered intelligence showing that Tehran was approaching “the point of no return” in its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Military officials said that the IDF was preparing for heavy fire from Iran, but asserted that “at the end of the operation, there will be no nuclear threat” from the Islamic Republic.
end
monday
IDF strikes missiles sites, reportedly attacks targets in Natanz, Parchin
Other initial reports stated Israeli forces were simultaneously carrying out large-scale attacks on other nuclear sites across Iran.
A satellite image shows the Natanz nuclear facility after airstrike in Iran in this handout image dated June 14, 2025(photo credit: MAXAR TECHNOLOGY/HANDOUT VIA REUTERS)ByGADI ZAIG, AMICHAI STEINJUNE 16, 2025 00:52Updated: JUNE 16, 2025 03:46
Surface-to-surface missile sites in central Iran have been struck by the IDF overnight between Sunday and Monday, the military said.
Saudi state-owned news source Al-Arabiya reported that Israeli forces had struck targets in the area of the city of Natanz in central Iran.
Other initial reports stated Israeli forces were simultaneously carrying out large-scale attacks on other nuclear sites across Iran.
The IDF is reportedly trying to thwart a launch by Iran by striking their soil, after they detected that Iran was attempting to send missiles towards Israeli territory.
Alert was given to civilians to stay near protected spaces regardless
The IDF’s Home Front Command, as a result, issued an alert to civilians in Israel to stay near protected spaces, as they were striking the launchers.
Site in Parchin, Iran. (credit: SCREENSHOT GOOGLE EARTH)
A few hours earlier, the IDF put out a statement saying it weakened the Islamic Republic of Iran’s weapons production capabilities after completing a wave of strikes on infrastructure belonging to the IRGC’s Quds Force in Tehran.
The military also said that the Israel Air Force and Israel Navy had intercepted over 100 drones fired by Iran since the beginning of Operation Rising Lion.
Hours before the Israeli strikes, a 2.5 magnitude earthquake was reported in the Qom Province near the Fordow nuclear facility, according to the Iranian Seismological Center. Around the same time, Iranian media reported Israeli airstrikes at the Fordow nuclear facility.
Later, the IAF intercepted a drone over Jordanian skies that was heading towards Eilat. No sirens sounded in the southern Israeli city or its surrounding areas.
Yanir Yagna contributed to this report.
end
Israel kills Iranian intel chiefs, strikes deep inside Iran, opens ‘air corridor to Tehran’
Dozens of targets hit throughout Sunday, including energy sites, radar systems, missile launchers; refueling plane hit at Mashhad Airport, possibly marking Israel’s farthest-ever strike
An Iranian refueling plane is seen on fire at Mashhad Airport in northeast Iran following an Israeli strike on June 15, 2025. (Social media: used in accordance with Clause 27a of the Copyright Law)
Israel on Sunday attacked dozens of sites in Iran — including energy sites, radar systems, and ballistic missiles and their launchers — and killed Iran’s top intelligence officers on the third day of its ongoing campaign against the Islamic Republic’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
The Israel Defense Forces also bombed an Iranian refueling plane at Mashhad Airport in northeast Iran, some 2,300 kilometers (1,430 miles) from Israel, marking what it said was the most distant strike since the beginning of the operation.
And early Monday morning, the army said it struck surface-to-surface missile launch sites in central Iran, shortly after the IDF Home Front Command told Israelis to remain close to shelters ahead of an expected missile barrage that didn’t materialize.
The IDF says it has been attempting since Friday to prevent Iranian missile attacks.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, in a video statement Sunday evening, hailed the “historic and unprecedented operation aimed at significantly damaging the existential threat that Iran has built for years to destroy us.”
“We are continuing to operate according to a structured, thorough, professional and evolving plan,” he said. “In the past 24 hours, we completed opening an air corridor to Tehran… Air Force pilots are flying with great risks, hundreds of kilometers away from Israeli territory, striking hundreds of diverse targets with precision. At the same time, we are locating and destroying missile launchers firing at our territory.”
In an earlier statement, Zamir said the Air Force was striking Iran’s “infrastructure and nuclear program in a precise and extensive manner, beyond what the enemy anticipated.”
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir (left) and IAF chief Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar are seen at the IAF’s underground command center, June 15, 2025. (Israel Defense Forces)
Widespread airstrikes were reported Sunday afternoon in the Iranian capital, with videos from the city circulating on social media.
There were also local reports of large-scale sewage and water pipe explosions across Tehran, allegedly connected to Israeli strikes, a matter on which the IDF had no comment.
Strikes were also reported against Iranian military sites in Shiraz, and the IDF said the Air Force also launched a wave of airstrikes on dozens of ballistic missile targets in western Iran.
On Sunday night, Iranian media also reported Israeli strikes in Parchin, with the Mehr News Agency posting a video showing air defense systems activating in the area.
واکنش سریع پدافند ارتش و خنثیسازی حمله رژیم صهیونیستی در پارچین
In October, Israel’s airstrikes reportedly destroyed an active nuclear weapons research facility in Parchin, after Iran’s ballistic missile attack earlier that month.
The strike on Mashhad Airport potentially marked the Israeli Air Force’s farthest-ever strike. In 1985, the IAF struck the headquarters of the Palestine Liberation Organization in Tunisia, also over 2,000 kilometers from Israel.
A large fire could be seen at Mashhad Airport following the Israeli strike.
“The Air Force is working to achieve air superiority throughout Iran,” the military said.
Iranian state media confirmed Sunday that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) intelligence chief, Brig. Gen. Mohammad Kazemi, and his deputy Hassan Mohaqiq were killed in an Israeli strike during the day, shortly after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted as much in an interview with Fox News.
State media also said a third IRGC intelligence officer, Mohsen Bagheri, was also killed in the strike in Tehran.
Smoke billows following an explosion in central Tehran on June 15, 2025. Iranian media said an Israeli strike hit the Tehran police headquarters in the city center. (Photo by Atta KENARE / AFP)
Later in the evening, the IDF said it had completed an “extensive” wave of airstrikes in Iran aimed at destroying weapon manufacturing capabilities.
The strikes targeted infrastructure belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Guards’ Quds Force, and Iran’s armed forces, and “numerous weapons production sites across Iran were targeted,” according to the IDF.
The military published a video showing an airstrike carried out by fighter jets on a surface-to-air missile launcher in Tehran on Sunday, and said it also struck ballistic missile production sites and a radar facility in the Iranian capital.
תיעוד מיוחד: חיל האוויר תוקף משגרי טילי קרקע-אוויר בלב טהראן
מטוסי קרב של חיל האוויר תקפו והשמידו אתרים לייצור טילי קרקע-קרקע, אתרי מכ"ם ומשגרים של טילי קרקע-אוויר בטהראן, בהכוונת אגף המודיעין pic.twitter.com/RQXcCZVGqu
Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency reported that an Iranian foreign ministry building in Tehran had been hit in one of the Israeli airstrikes throughout the day.
The president of Iran’s foreign ministry-affiliated Institute for Political and International Studies (IPIS), Saeed Khatibzadeh, said the strike also damaged the IPIS building, located across from the targeted site.
He shared what he said was footage of the damage to the institute’s library in a post on X.
Israel did not comment Sunday on the report.
The criminal regime of Israel launched a deliberate and ruthless strike on one of the buildings of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, located directly across from the Institute for Political and International Studies.
— Saeed Khatibzadeh | سعید خطیبزاده (@SKhatibzadeh) June 15, 2025
Iran’s IRNA news agency reported during the day that five car bombs had been detonated in Tehran, blaming Israel for the attack. But an Israeli official speaking to the Kan public broadcaster denied that Israel was behind that act.
Iran’s state media claimed Sunday that the death toll from Israel’s attacks since Friday had climbed to 224, of whom 90 percent are allegedly civilians.
Years of hostility between Israel and Iran exploded into open conflict early Friday morning when Israel launched a major offensive against Iran and its nuclear program, hitting nuclear sites, missile bases and top military officials.
Israel said it had no choice but to attack Iran, and that it had gathered intelligence showing that Tehran was approaching “the point of no return” in its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
Military officials said that the IDF was preparing for heavy fire from Iran, but asserted that “at the end of the operation, there will be no nuclear threat” from the Islamic Republic.
Lazar Berman, Stav Levaton and Reuters contributed to this report.
end
The criminal regime of Israel launched a deliberate and ruthless strike on one of the buildings of Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, located directly across from the Institute for Political and International Studies.
— Saeed Khatibzadeh | سعید خطیبزاده (@SKhatibzadeh) June 15, 2025
Israel destroyed a third of Iran’s ballistic missile launchers, IDF says
The Islamic Republic was only able to fire around half of the missiles it had intended to fire on Israel overnight.
A drone photo shows rescue personnel next to damaged vehicles near residential homes and a school at the impact site following a missile attack from Iran on Israel, in Bnei Brak, Israel June 16, 2025(photo credit: CHEN KALIFA/REUTERS)ByYONAH JEREMY BOBJUNE 16, 2025 11:59Updated: JUNE 16, 2025 12:26
IDF Chief Spokesman Brig.-Gen. Effie Defrin on Monday announced that the air force has destroyed a third of Iran’s ballistic missile launchers, 120 in total.
Each launcher could have fired dozens of missiles over the course of the current war.
The Islamic Republic was only able to fire around half of the missiles it had intended to fire overnight, said Defrin.
Preventing Tehran from attacking Israel
This means that for the rest of the war, Iran’s ability to launch more missiles at once will be reduced by at least a third, if not more, given that during the overnight attack, Tehran‘s firing capability was reduced by around half.
Missiles launched from Iran are intercepted as seen from Ashkelon, June 15, 2025 (credit: REUTERS/AMIR COHEN)
Overnight, Defrin said that the air force also destroyed 20 ballistic missiles that were on their way to being fired. This means that given that Iran fired 40 ballistic missiles, it would have fired at least 60, without getting into how many missiles it lost the ability to fire, given its losses in the area of missile launchers.
Also, Defrin said that the air force launched 50 aircraft, which struck around 100 targets over the course of the last day.
This is a developing story.See more on
end
Striking the heart of Tehran: IAF kills four Iranian senior intelligence officials
The strike killed the head of the Revolutionary Guards’ intelligence organization and his deputy, as well as the head of the Quds Force’s intelligence branch and his deputy.
Smoke rises following an Israeli attack on Tehran Oil Refinery, in south of Tehran, Iran, June 15, 2025.(photo credit: MAJID ASGARIPOUR/WANA (WEST ASIA NEWS AGENCY) VIA REUTERS)ByJERUSALEM POST STAFFJUNE 16, 2025 11:45Updated: JUNE 16, 2025 11:53
The Israel Air Force assassinated four senior Iranian intelligence officials, including the head of the Revolutionary Guards’ intelligence organization, on Sunday, the IDF announced on Monday.
Fighter jets struck senior officials in a building in Tehran, the military said.
The strike killed the head of the Revolutionary Guards’ intelligence organization and his deputy, as well as the head of the Quds Force’s intelligence branch and his deputy.
These senior officials played a central role in assessing the situation in Iran and planning terrorist actions against Israel, the West, and regional countries, the military claimed.
Pictures of those killed in Israeli strikes on Iran are displayed on a street, in Tehran, June 15, 2025 (credit: MAJID ASGARIPOUR/WANA (WEST ASIA NEWS AGENCY) VIA REUTERS)
Operation Rising Lion
The announcement comes after days of back-and-forth attacks between Iran and Israel after Israel launched Operation Rising Lion in response to Tehran’s growing nuclear threat.
Since launching the operation, hundreds of Israelis have been wounded and 24 killed.
Much of Tehran’s leadership, military and nuclear assets have been destroyed in Israeli strikes.
end
IRAN/USA/WEEKEND ASSESSMENT
Trump Hints At ‘Possible’ US Entry Into War Amid Stepped-Up Israeli Daytime Attacks On Tehran
by Tyler Durden
Sunday, Jun 15, 2025 – 12:15 PM
After Saturday reports widely said that Israel requested direct US military assistance in attacking Iranian nuclear sites, President Trump in fresh comments to ABC News has begun to change the White House tune a little, as he now says it’s ‘possible’ the US ‘could get involved’ in the Israel-Iran conflict.
He told ABC’s Rachel Scott that “it’s possible we could get involved” – however he emphasized that the US military is “not at this moment involved” in the conflict. He pivoted to calling for peaceful resolution, saying the US would be “open” to Russian President Vladimir Putin being a mediator in. “He is ready. He called me about it. We had a long talk about it,” Trump said. Of course, he campaigned against new wars starting and said these major conflicts would not have happened if he was president.
Regional sources are reporting on Sunday the highest number of observed strikes in daylight in an around Tehran. Israel’s military says that over 80 sites were hit overnight, and has vowed to “hunt down” ballistic missile launchers in western Iran. Radar and anti-air defense batteries were also struck “as part of the IDF’s aerial superiority in Iranian airspace.”
The densely populated capital of around 15 million has seen hundreds of thousands leave the city for safety.
At least three different areas of Tehran have been heavily targeted in this latest wave, includin Niavaran to the north, and the Valiasr and Hafte Tir squares in the center of the city.
President Trump has belatedly become a little more vocal, after an initial day of silence following the war’s start:
What’s the “easy deal” to be done between Iran and Israel at this point? Iran agrees to dissolve its government at the request of Israel? pic.twitter.com/3YUxRqwBF9
— fireofGod1978(فایراف گاد سابق) چهارمین اکانت (@A94132868103641) June 15, 2025
Iran’s emergency authorities have announced the opening of metro stations and mosques to serve as bomb shelters for the public starting Sunday night.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a Persian-language message directed at Iranian civilians as follows: “All individuals currently present or expected to be present in or around military weapons manufacturing facilities and their supporting institutions must immediately evacuate these areas and not return until further notice,” it said.
Key oil sites have continued to get lit up by major Israeli airstrikes…
Huge flames and billowing smoke were seen at the Shahran oil depot in Tehran, following an Israeli attack. pic.twitter.com/MEYU6ognHV
There has been no death toll update since Iran’s UN Ambassador had announced that 78 were killed and more than 320 wounded since the start of early Friday strikes.
As for Israel, its growing casualty count includes at least eleven dead and 200 injured following overnight attacks, which saw whole neighborhoods destroyed in Tel Aviv, and a residential high rise building decimated.
Things in Tehran have gone from bad to worse amid indications of civic infrastructure failure in several places:
Additionally, an assassination campaign continues to be underway, via targeted aerial attacks, but also apparent sabotage utilizing intelligence assets on the ground, as car bombs in Tehran has been reported. According to Times of Israel:
At least 14 Iranian nuclear scientists have been killed in Israeli attacks since Friday, including in car bombs, two sources in the Gulf say.
The names of nine of the scientists were published by the IDF yesterday, and it said many of them were successors to Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the “father of the Iranian nuclear project,” who was allegedly assassinated by Israel in 2020.
But overnight Iran scored many devastating hits after launching waves of ballistic – and some reports say even hypersonic – missiles on Israel.
In one notable instance, a residential building in the Israeli city of Bat Yam was severely badly damaged in an Iranian strike. At least six were killed in that single attack another seven have been reported trapped under the rubble, amid ongoing difficult rescue operations.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, recently back from Greece, toured the area of the Bat Yam attack. Videos of the scene show that the whole street lies in rubble, and that crews are still searching for survivors.
The danger is that both sides are clearly unleashing full firepower on civilian areas, and some reports say Iran is now targeting Netanyahu’s own residential neighborhood with attacks.
At this point US-Iran nuclear negotiations definitely appear off, though Trump is still seeking to leverage the attacks to urge Iran to quickly make a deal before it gets further destroyed.
iIRAN/PETA TIVKA/MONDAY
Israel vows Tehran residents ‘will pay’ after 8 killed, hundreds hurt in overnight missile strikes
Two people killed while sheltering in safe room shredded by direct hit * IDF bombs Quds Force command centers, says it has full ‘full aerial superiority’ over Iranian capital * US embassy suffers minor damage
8 killed, nearly 300 injured as Iranian ballistic missiles strike central Israel, Haifa
4 killed in Petah Tikva, 3 in Haifa, 1 in Bnei Brak; US embassy branch in Tel Aviv lightly damaged; Katz says ‘Tehran residents will pay the price,’ then clarifies civilians won’t be physically harmed
By Emanuel Fabian FollowToday, 1:29 pmUpdated at 1:49 pm
Rubble and emergency forces seen at sites of Iranian strikes in Bnei Brak, Tel Aviv and Petah Tikva, central Israel, on June 16, 2025. (Chen Kalifa/Reuters/Oren Ziv/Raanan Cohen/AFPTV/AFP)
Eight people were killed by Iranian ballistic missiles that slammed into Israeli cities in at least five locations early Monday, and nearly 300 others were injured, as the conflict entered a fourth day.
Four people were killed in Petah Tivka, three in Haifa, and another person in Bnei Brak.
The Health Ministry said 287 people were hospitalized nationwide as a result of the barrage of Iranian missiles. One person was listed in serious condition, and 14 were moderately injured, including two at Schneider Children’s Hospital in Petah Tikvah. The remainder were lightly injured or suffered acute shock.
Two missiles also hit Tel Aviv, causing significant damage to a number of buildings, as well as some injuries.
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee confirmed in a post to X that the embassy branch in the coastal city was slightly damaged from an impact, but there were no injuries to staff. He said the American embassies and consulates remain closed, with a shelter-in-place order still in effect. The US embassy itself is located in Jerusalem.
Iranian missile barrages have repeatedly targeted the densely populated Tel Aviv metro area and surrounding cities since fighting began on Friday, as well as the Haifa area.
Israeli security and rescue forces at the scene where a ballistic missile fired from Iran hit and caused damage in Tel Aviv, June 16, 2025. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)
The Israel Defense Forces began airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure in the early hours of Friday, acting to fight what it says is an immediate and existential threat to Israel from the Iranian nuclear and missile programs.
The campaign, which also included Mossad sabotage operations within Iran, has received support from many Western nations, which have affirmed Israel’s right to defend itself.
Shortly after midnight in the early hours of Monday, the IDF’s Home Front Command alerted the Israeli public to stay close to bomb shelters in the expectation of a missile attack.
Notifications were sent via a cellphone app that gives an early alert of possible attacks, which is generally followed by a second warning that is minutes ahead of sirens, at which point there is around 90 seconds to find shelter.
People evacuate after a missile launched from Iran struck Tel Aviv, Israel, June 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Baz Ratner)
In the hours that followed, the IDF said it hit surface-to-surface missile launchers in central Iran, an action the military said reduced by half the number of rockets Iran had planned to fire.
Then, just after 4 a.m., sirens went off as Iran fired a barrage at the central and northern regions of the country.
The IDF said that some 40 missiles were fired and that, like in previous barrages, Israeli air defense systems intercepted most of them but some slipped through.
Dozens of drones were also launched at Israel overnight and on Monday morning, but were all intercepted by the Israeli Air Force and Navy, the military said.
Also Monday morning, a ballistic missile launched at Israel by the Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen fell short outside the country’s borders, the military said. Sirens had sounded in southern Israel.
Petah Tikva
Home Front Command official Udi Elbaz told the press that an Iranian missile hit a 20-story building in Petah Tikva, badly damaging its fourth and fifth floors.
“It is important for me to emphasize that in additional buildings we searched, most of the people who were in a protected space were not injured,” he told reporters.
Responders inspect a damaged building following a strike by an Iranian missile in Petah Tikva on June 16, 2025. (Jack GUEZ / AFP)
The IDF later clarified that the missile directly hit a bombproof room, which is an area built into modern Israeli buildings that has thicker walls and a blast door to protect against such attacks. Two people who were in one of the safe rooms were killed. The two other fatalities at that location were not in a protected space despite the sirens.
Haifa
Haifa Mayor Yona Yahav confirmed that three people were killed in a barrage targeting the northern city.
Yahav told Channel 12 news the three were working at a facility “that’s very important to us in the area, which we would be happy if it closed and left.”
Rescuers had attempted for hours to reach the three missing people, who were buried under rubble during the attack on the northern city. A fire also broke out at the location, complicating rescue operations.
Israeli air defense systems are activated to intercept Iranian missiles over Haifa on June 16, 2025. (AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP)
Yahav said several homes and other buildings in the city suffered extensive damage, but only four people were hospitalized with light injuries.
Israel Police said officers were sent to clear international media journalists who have been broadcasting live missile impacts in the Haifa area.
“Coastal District police vehicles set out to conduct a search and handle the incident,” a spokesperson said.
Haifa is home to a number of sensitive facilities, including an oil refinery, a major port, and a naval base.
Bnei Brak
In Bnei Brak, a town east of Tel Aviv, the body of a man in his 80s was pulled out of a building that was damaged by a missile, authorities said on Monday.
The impact caused significant damage to a number of other buildings in the area.
Israeli security and rescue forces at the scene where a ballistic missile fired from Iran hit and caused damage in Bnei Brak, June 16, 2025. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)
At impact sites, rescuers helped evacuate hundreds of people from destroyed and damaged residential buildings.
The Magen David Adom emergency service reported that at one of the locations, which caused major damage to residential buildings along a street, a four-day-old baby was found in a destroyed building, but suffering no injuries.
Medics kept the child safe in an ambulance until his mother was extracted from a building about an hour later.
Rescuers work near a damaged building following a strike by an Iranian missile in Bnei Brak, east of Tel Aviv, on June 16, 2025. (Jalaa MAREY / AFP)
In addition to the missiles, eight drones launched at Israel from Iran were intercepted by Israeli Navy missile boats overnight, the IDF said, adding that it had used a new air defense system for the first time.
According to the military, it intercepted some of the drones using LRAD interceptor missiles, part of the BARAK MX air defense system, which were deployed to the Navy’s Sa’ar 6-class corvettes.
Since the start of the conflict on Friday, the IDF said, the Navy has intercepted some 25 drones heading to Israel, mostly from Iran.
The IAF has shot down around 100 other drones with fighter jets and helicopters.
Defense Minister Israel Katz threatened that Tehran’s residents would suffer in retaliation for the Iranian missile strikes that have caused widespread damage to Israeli residential areas.
“The arrogant dictator of Tehran has become a scared murderer who fires at Israel’s civilian home front in order to deter the IDF from continuing to carry out attacks that are destroying his capabilities,” Katz said in a statement, apparently referring to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
“The residents of Tehran will pay the price, and soon,” he vowed, in what appeared to be a threat to target Iranian civilians in kind.
He later clarified that “there is no intention to physically harm the residents of Tehran, as the murderous dictator does to the citizens of Israel.”
“The residents of Tehran will be forced to bear the cost of the dictatorship and evacuate their homes from areas where it will be necessary to strike regime targets and security infrastructure in Tehran,” he said.
Defense Minister Israel Katz, right, meets with IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, left, and members of the military’s top brass ahead of the Israeli operation against Iran’s nuclear program, June 13, 2025.. (Defense Ministry)
350 missiles fired since Friday
Iran has launched some 350 ballistic missiles at Israel since Friday, the vast majority of which were intercepted, according to IDF statistics released Monday.
In all, 24 people have been killed in Iran’s ballistic missile attacks since Friday.
That number is expected to rise, as one person is still missing and presumed dead in a missile strike on a building in Bat Yam over the weekend.
The scene of an apartment building destroyed by an Iranian ballistic missile impact, in Bat Yam, June 15, 2025. (Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)
Iran’s barrages consist of some 30-60 missiles each, according to the IDF.
Military officials said that Tehran has sought to fire more — hundreds at a time — but Israeli Air Force strikes on ballistic missile launchers in Iran are disrupting the attacks.
In each barrage, 5-10 percent of the missiles “leak” through and impact Israel, officials said. This includes missiles that the IDF says it does not try to shoot down “according to protocol,” allowing them to strike open areas without causing damage to any critical infrastructure, as well as missiles it failed to intercept which hit urban areas and caused casualties and damage.
The military has routinely emphasized that, as good as Israel’s multilayered air defenses are, they are not hermetic. It has urged Israelis to heed Home Front Command instructions to take shelter in safe rooms and bomb shelters when incoming missile warnings are received.
Most of Iran’s ballistic missile fire has been aimed at Tel Aviv and Haifa — which are densely populated — and to a lesser degree, the Beersheba area. This means that the few missiles that are not intercepted are likely to cause harm.
END
zero hedge monday
Iran Inflicts More Punishment, Claims ‘New Method’ Caused IDF Systems To Target Each Other
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 08:45 AM
After another day on the receiving end of an Israeli war of aggression that began Friday, Iran delivered a major counterpunch overnight, further demonstrating that Israel’s highly-touted Iron Dome defense system is vulnerable to Iran’s hypersonic missiles. Upon completing a deadly barrage aimed at targets in Tel Aviv, Haifa and elsewhere, Iran claimed it had employed a “new method” that put Israel’s multi-layered defense system in disarray to the point its various systems targeted each other.
As fire and rescue teams scrambled to respond to the damage, Times of Israel reported at least eight people had been killed and more than 90 injured in the early-Monday attack, bringing Israel’s running death toll to at least 24 with hundreds wounded. “The arrogant dictator of Tehran has become a scared murderer who fires at Israel’s civilian home front in order to deter the IDF from continuing to carry out attacks that are destroying his capabilities,” said Defense Minister Israel Katz, only to then promise that “residents of Tehran will pay the price, and soon.”
❗️Multiple dead from Iran strikes on Tel Aviv suburbs
Iran claimed it struck targets that included a power plant in Haifa that “was seen engulfed in flames,” an oil refinery complex in Bazan, a facility of the military technology company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems facility, as well as Ben Gurion Airport. The Cradle reports that other targets included Nevatim Air Base, an army camp in Galilee, and hits on power grid facilities that caused “widespread blackouts.” Projectiles also hit a residential high-rise building and at least another residential area. An Iranian defense official said the attack included missiles with 1.5-ton warheads, but noted Iran has even heavier warheads in its inventory.
Citing a statement from the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps, state media outlet PressTV reported that “the operation specifically targeted the Zionist regime’s command and control systems using advanced tactics and enhanced intelligence-tech capabilities.”
“As a result,” the IRGC said, “the enemy’s multilayered defense systems were thrown into disarray, to the point where their own air defense units began firing on each other.” One video making the rounds on social media appears to show an IDF missile interceptor blowing itself up, though the careful observer must contemplate the possibility that an unforced IDF error captured on video may have been opportunistically exploited to make an exaggerated claim:
IRGC: New methods were used in attack, causing Israeli systems to target each other
Dampening Israeli hopes that Iran may run out of missiles soon, Israeli National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi told Army Radio that Iran has “thousands of ballistic missiles” in its inventory, which the Times of Israel called “a higher figure than previously estimated.”
Iran has similarly made repeated claims that it hasn’t used its full resources yet. “We are still exercising restraint and have not deployed all our capabilities to avoid global chaos,” IRGC chief Major General Mohsen Rezaei told Iranian state media. “However, we may reach a point where we use new weapons.” While reiterating Iran’s claim that it doesn’t seek to acquire a nuclear weapon — a claim re-certified as valid by the US intelligence community as recently as March of this year — he hinted that Iran’s stance on nuclear weapon development could change, saying “the future cannot be predicted with precision.”
A question is starting to loom large:How long can this Israeli society — which has for years gone almost entirely unscathed as its military unleashes utter devastation on lesser forces and civilian populations — withstand prolonged destruction from a well-equipped foe like Iran?
END
LATE MONDAY MORNING
ISRAEL ORDERS THE EVACUATION OF ALL TEHRAN CITIZENS AHEAD OF A MAJOR BOMBING
Current time in Israel: June 16, 5:24 PM
IDF strikes Iranian missile launchers, orders Tehran residents to evacuate
Iran preparing to leave non-proliferation treaty • Bat Yam names another victim of Iranian missile strike on building • Eight killed in overnight missile barrages, 24 killed since operation began
A few pedestrians walk along the historic Grand Bazaar as shops remain shuttered, in Tehran, Iran, Monday, June 16, 2025. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)
The IDF issues an unprecedented evacuation warning for a large section of Iran’s capital, Tehran, ahead of Israeli strikes.
“Dear citizens, for your safety, we ask you to immediately leave the mentioned area in District 3 of Tehran,” says the IDF Persian-language spokesman, Master Sgt. (res.) Kamal Penhasi.
“In the coming hours, the Israeli army will operate in this area, as it has in recent days throughout Tehran, to strike the Iranian regime’s military infrastructure,” the warning adds.
🔴 هشدار فوری به کلیه أفراد حاضر در ناحیه مشخص شده نقشه ضمیمه در منطقه ۳ تهران.
⭕️ شهروندان گرامی، بمنظور امنیت شما خواهشمندیم از ناحیه مذکور در منطقه ۳ تهران فورا خارج گردید.
⭕️ طی ساعات آینده ارتش اسرائیل در این ناحیه همچنان که طی روزهای اخیر در محدوده تهران عمل نموده است،… pic.twitter.com/8WkxfGQnKN
In a vague warning after the military issued the evacuation warning, Defense Minister Israel Katz says, “The Iranian propaganda and incitement mouthpiece is on its way to disappearing.”
“Evacuation of nearby residents has begun,” he adds.
NEXT TO BE HIT: IRANIAN STATE TV
IDF strikes military base in western Tehran, targets Iranian state TV broadcast station
Defense MInsiter Israel Katz also threatened to strike the Iranian state television broadcast station,
The IDF struck a military base in western Tehran Monday afternoon, Iranian media reported, and footage viewed by The Jerusalem Post confirmed.
Israel is expected to target Iranian state television, with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz saying that the “Iranian propaganda and incitement mouthpiece is on its way to disappearing,” adding that the evacuation of the surrounding residences has begun.
At the same time, IDF Spokesperson in Arabic, Avichay Adraee, issued an evacuation warning in Persian to the residents of the third district of Tehran in a social media post on Monday.
🔴 هشدار فوری به کلیه أفراد حاضر در ناحیه مشخص شده نقشه ضمیمه در منطقه ۳ تهران.⭕️ شهروندان گرامی، بمنظور امنیت شما خواهشمندیم از ناحیه مذکور در منطقه ۳ تهران فورا خارج گردید.⭕️ طی ساعات آینده ارتش اسرائیل در این ناحیه همچنان که طی روزهای اخیر در محدوده تهران عمل نموده است،… pic.twitter.com/8WkxfGQnKN— افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) June 16, 2025
Adraee notified residents that the IDF will strike military infrastructure in the area in the next few hours, as it has done in recent days in Tehran.
The third district is located in eastern Tehran and is an affluent area where many government offices reside.
This is a developing story.
AND THEY WERE HIT;
WATCH: Explosions, rubble: IDF strikes Iranian state TV station during live broadcast
The IDF also struck an Iranian military base in western Tehran.
The IDF struck the Islamic Republic of Iran News Network (IRINN), operated by IRIB, on Monday afternoon because the network was being used for military purposes by the Iranian Armed Forces, the military said.
The building was used under the guise of civilian activity, covering up the military use of the center’s infrastructure and assets. The strike directly harmed the military capabilities of the Iranian Armed Forces, according to the IDF.
IDF graphic of the building targeted in the strike, June 16, 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON’S UNIT)
The military added that the “precise strike” was conducted based on intelligence, and prior to the strike, the IDF warned the surrounding civilian population, including through phone calls.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said just before the strike that the “Iranian propaganda and incitement mouthpiece is on its way to disappearing.”
He added that the evacuation of the surrounding residences has begun.
At the same time, IDF Spokesperson in Arabic, Avichay Adraee, issued an evacuation warning in Persian to the residents of the third district of Tehran in a social media post on Monday.
🔴 هشدار فوری به کلیه أفراد حاضر در ناحیه مشخص شده نقشه ضمیمه در منطقه ۳ تهران.⭕️ شهروندان گرامی، بمنظور امنیت شما خواهشمندیم از ناحیه مذکور در منطقه ۳ تهران فورا خارج گردید.⭕️ طی ساعات آینده ارتش اسرائیل در این ناحیه همچنان که طی روزهای اخیر در محدوده تهران عمل نموده است،… pic.twitter.com/8WkxfGQnKN— افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) June 16, 2025
Adraee notified residents that the IDF will strike military infrastructure in the area in the next few hours, as it has done in recent days in Tehran.
The third district is located in eastern Tehran and is an affluent area where many government offices reside.
This is a developing story.
END
WATCH Anchor Flees Studio Mid-Broadcast As Iran TV Building Bombed
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 12:05 PM
It seems clear that the four-day long aerial war in the Middle East has escalated to a full-on Israeli effort to overthrow the Iranian government.
Already the country’s main justice building in the capital has been struck by Israeli warplanes, and on Monday Iran’s state TV headquarters (IRIB) has come under direct attack. The terrifying moment of studio collapse during a live broadcast was caught in real-time for the world to see. Watch:
The footage shows the moment of attack when the Israeli Air Force bombed the main offices of IRIB. The anchor is seen fleeing the studio after a massive explosion, and the studio shook and things begin to fall.
Israeli media has also confirmed that Iranian state TV headquarters are now being targeted, with Israeli warplanes having full control of the skies over Western Iran. TOI reports:
Earlier, the IDF issued an evacuation warning for the area in Tehran where IRIB’s headquarters are based, while Defense Minister Israel Katz said, “The Iranian propaganda and incitement mouthpiece is on its way to disappear.”
Now both sides are promising more ‘major blows’ to come, with Iran’s IRGC also warning Israeli civilians to evacuate Tel Aviv.
Based on the footage below, Israeli warplanes appear to have struck the central media broadcast building at least several times…
Again, this has escalated to full Israeli decapitation efforts against Tehran’s government, and very likely the Supreme Leader was long ago moved to a secure bunker, surrounded by his closest and most trusted aides.
The Pentagon is now positioning itself to be able to present Trump with ‘options’ – and if the US does directly enter, there could be a revolt among his MAGA base. Trump is now telling the Iranians they should enter nuclear negotiations ‘before it’s too late’.
Reports of casualties emerging from the strike…
Breaking | The Israeli occupation airstrike that targeted the Iranian Radio and Television Authority building in Tehran has killed and wounded dozens of staff and personnel. pic.twitter.com/kelh0OKAql
USS Nimitz Carrier Group On Way To MidEast As Iran Reportedly Seeks De-Escalation With Israel
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 10:26 AM
Update(1026ET): Below is Fox News’ chief national security correspondent Jennifer Griffin confirming a major breaking development:
CONFIRMED: The USS Nimitz aircraft carrier strike group is on its way to the Middle East from the South China Sea, a U.S. official tells Fox News. The Nimitz was previously scheduled to replace the USS Carl Vinson carrier strike group which has been deployed for several months, but is now heading to the Middle East ahead of schedule. The two will now be in the Middle East at the same time. The USS Nimitz is the oldest active aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy, commissioned on May 3, 1975. Scheduled to be decommissioned in 2026, this is possibly its final sea voyage. This is a very significant symbolic deployment because it was deployed in 1980 and its helicopters that were part of the failed US effort known as Operation Eagle Claw to rescue the American hostages being held at the US Embassy in Tehran. The US has been in a shadow war against Iran ever since.
This comes on the heels of reports that the US Embassy in Tel Aviv suffered “minor damage” from a nearby Iranian ballistic missile impact. And Reuters confirms:
US military has moved a large number of refueling tanker craft to Europe to give options to US President Trump…
WSJ this morning: Iran eager to negotiate with the US and Israel to end the war.
CNN this morning: Iran refuses to negotiate while under attack and until its retaliation against Israel is completed.
Disinformation is always a weapon of war: lets people believe what they want: pic.twitter.com/otpHfITbFe
This likely won’t end well, given the Times of Israel is now citing Israeli officials who say the operation is expected to last two to three weeks. “There’s a bank of military targets that we can complete prettying quickly.” Meanwhile Iranian reports are claiming that only some 5% of its offensive missile capacity has been used. Meanwhile:
IRAN’S REVOLUTIONARY GUARDS CALL ON TEL AVIV RESIDENTS TO EVACUATE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE -IRANIAN STATE MEDIA
Update(1008ET): Everything is suddenly exploding higher – also with gold and oil dropping – especially on the following WSJ breaking report which suggests (dubiously, we should add…) that the Iranians are ‘open’ to returning to the negotiating table with Trump officials, even as ballistic missiles rain down on Israel, and as much of the Islamic Republic – particularly oil depots – burn…
“In the midst of a ferocious Israeli air campaign, Tehran has told Arab officials they would be open to return to the negotiating table as long as the U.S. doesn’t join the attack, the officials said. They also passed messages to Israel saying it is in the interest of both sides to keep the violence contained,” per WSJ on Monday.
Oil prices tumbling on the breaking report…
S&P 2% from ATH…
Gold has been falling since before the missile war started late on Thursday…
WSJ continues, “Iran has been urgently signaling that it seeks an end to hostilities and resumption of talks over its nuclear programs, sending messages to Israel and the U.S. via Arab intermediaries, Middle Eastern and European officials said.”
This comes also amid reports that dozens of US Air Force tankers have in the last hours taken off from the United States and headed towards Europe, as also confirmed in Flightradar24 and Air Live. Is Trump ready to join the Israeli side militarily? The Iranians fear so, it appears.
Iran’s message is that “it is in the interest of both sides to keep the violence contained” – according to an urgeng diplomatic message passed along. But at this point it seems clear that Israel is going for full regime decapitation, given also that reports say the Israel Air Force has total aerial dominance over Western Iran and skies above Tehran at this point. If these reports of an Iranian olive branch
END
IRAN/USA/AFTERNOON MONDAY
Wave Of USAF Tankers Depart America Amid Escalating Israel-Iran Conflict
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 10:15 AM
Israel’s ongoing military campaign, Operation Rising Lion, has conducted coordinated precision strikes against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, crude oil export terminals, and high-value IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) targets since late last week. The scope and sequencing of these strikes—outlined in a Wall Street Journal op-ed in October 2024—suggest objectives that go well beyond deterrence, aiming instead to pave the way for regime change in Tehran.
🇮🇱🇮🇷 FULL-ON FIRESTORM: ISRAEL AND IRAN STRIKES ACROSS CITIES AND SKIES MAPPED OUT
A new war map lays it out: this isn’t a skirmish—it’s a multi-city missile slugfest.
Speaking Sunday, President Trump emphasized that the U.S. “is not involved” in Israel’s strikes on Iran—adding, however, that “it’s possible we could get involved.”
“We’re not involved in it. It’s possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved,” Trump told ABC News’ Rachel Scott.
The president also took to Truth Social, positioning himself as mediator and de-escalator-in-chief, stating: “Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal.”
Even though President Trump is intent on avoiding a direct confrontation with Iran, any IRGC shift from striking Israel to targeting U.S. interests or personnel in the Middle East would likely escalate the conflict and sharply increase the odds of American intervention.
Overnight, several aviation tracking websites, including Flightradar24 and Air Live, reported that dozens of U.S. Air Force tankers took off from the U.S. and headed towards Europe.
About 30 US Air Force aircraft, mostly KC-46A Pegasus and KC-135 Stratotankers, that left the US last night are starting to reach Europe. The final destination is unknown. pic.twitter.com/8qUqzh9qBm
Destinations are unknown for some, but the Boeing KC-46A and KC-135 aerial refueling tankers are critical aviation assets that extend the operational reach, endurance, and flexibility of fighter jets.
However…
2 of those aircraft have just touched down at Moron Airbase, Southeast of Seville, with two more on approach. All are KC135 Stratotankers. pic.twitter.com/MORqV2o8oY
The repositioning of USAF aerial refueling tankers strongly indicates that Western military planners are bracing for a sustained or broadening conflict—measured in weeks, not days. If that’s the case, market overservers should take note: JPMorgan warns Brent crude futures could surge into triple-digit territory if the conflict deepens.
END
Trump’s Casus Belli? US Embassy Damaged By Iranian Missile Strike In Tel Aviv
by Tyler Durden
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 02:45 PM
In what Washington will likely see as a major escalation from the Iranian side which could open an ‘opportunity’ for direct US military involvement in the now four-day long Iran-Israel war, the US Embassy in Tel Aviv has sustained “minor damage” by an Iranian ballistic missile.
A volley of Iranian missiles targeted the area early Monday, amid a major overnight surge in missile launches on Israel out of the Islamic Republic. There are no reports which say there was any kind of direct hit.
US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee confirmed on X: “Some minor damage from concussions of Iranian missile hits near Embassy Branch in @TelAviv but no injuries to US personnel,” he wrote.
“Our US Embassy Jerusalem… & Consulate will officially remain closed today as shelter in place still in effect,” Huckabee announced.
The US Embassy had controversially been relocated to Jerusalem as Trump had during his first term recognized the divided city as the capital of Israel, which was fiercely contested by Palestinians and Arab nations.
However, the Tel Aviv branch has remained operational as a major consulate or embassy extension, as the Jerusalem location still undergoes the process of getting fully established.
Starting Saturday the US State Department urged family members of embassy staffers to depart the country, as well as select non-essential personnel; however, shelter in place orders have largely remained and Israel has closed air space and traffic to all inbound and outbound flights.
On Monday, there are widespread reports that dozens of US Air Force tankers have in the last several hours taken off from the United States and headed towards Europe, as also confirmed in Flightradar24 and Air Live.
The exchange of missiles and airstrikes doesn’t look to abate anytime soon, given an Iranian advisor to the IRGC Commander has also been quoted in newswires on Monday as vowing–
“We are ready for a long war and haven’t yet made strategic use of missile capabilities.”
While Israeli cities have clearly suffered serious damage, and Israel’s much touted missile defense protection system is being overwhelmed and in many instances failing, the Islamic Republic and especially Tehran and oil depots have suffered more severe damage.
At least eight have been killed in Israel, and hundreds injured, as a result of the Iranian missile attacks. In Iran, the death toll is much higher, though fresh casualty reports have been hard to come by.
At this point it’s increasingly looking like Israel is going for regime change, and wants to drag America into the fight. With reports of the US Embassy (Tel Aviv consulate) having suffered damage, will this be Trump’s casus belli?
ISRAEL HAMAS
IDF soldier killed in Gaza fighting, bringing toll in military offensive to 430
Sgt. First Class (res.) Noam Shemesh, 21, from Jerusalem, killed in RPG attack; another soldier lightly injured in same incident
IDF Sgt. First Class (res.) Noam Shemesh (Israel Defense Force)
An Israel Defense Forces soldier was killed Saturday during fighting in the southern Gaza Strip, the military announced.
Sgt. First Class (res.) Noam Shemesh, 21, from Jerusalem, was a squad commander in the Kfir Brigade’s Shimshon Battalion.
Shemesh was killed by RPG fire in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis, according to an initial probe, the military said Sunday morning. Another soldier was lightly injured in the incident.
Shemesh’s death raised the death toll to 430 in the ground offensive against Hamas in Gaza and in military operations along the border with the Strip. The toll includes two police officers and three Defense Ministry civilian contractors.
Israel launched its campaign in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas assault on southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Terror groups in Gaza continue to hold 53 hostages, including the bodies of at least 33 confirmed dead by the IDF, and 20 who are believed to be alive. There are grave concerns for the well-being of three others, Israeli officials have said.
On Saturday, the IDF said that the Gaza war has been downgraded to the secondary arena after Israel last Thursday began strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. As the strikes continued against what Israel says is an existential threat, Iran has fired barrages of missiles at Israel, killing at least ten people overnight Saturday and injuring over 200 in the northern and central regions of the country.
Israel must strike “all Iranian power plants, every oil well, gas field, fuel storage facility, and seaports and airports,” Yisrael Beytenu party chief Avigdor Liberman says during a visit to Rehovot, where Iranian missiles caused damage to the campus of the Weizmann Institute of Science.
“We are paying a very heavy price. The Iranians are attacking population centers and civilian infrastructure. This is a total war,” the hawkish former defense minister says, arguing that Israel “must not stop halfway.”
ISRAEL
Israel launches rescue operation to bring close to 150,000 stranded Israelis home
Operation ‘Safe Return’: Private airlines and the Mano Maritime shipping company will be mobilized to bring stranded Israelis home by air and by sea.
An El Al flight lands at Ben Gurion Airport, March 31, 2025(photo credit: YOSSI ALONI/FLASH90)ByJERUSALEM POST STAFFJUNE 16, 2025 10:07Updated: JUNE 16, 2025 14:28
Israel’s Transportation Ministry will launch Operation ‘Safe Return’ to bring close to 150,000 Israelis stuck abroad back home, Transport Minister Miri Regev announced Monday.
According to Regev, private airlines and the Israeli Mano Maritime shipping company will be mobilized to bring between 100,000 and 150,000 Israelis stranded across the globe home by air or by sea.
According to Regev, the operation will be carried out in accordance with the Defense Ministry. She said the Transport Ministry had initially requested helicopters and aircraft, but was unable to receive them due to constraints within the Israeli Air Force.
Therefore, Regev said, Israelis trapped abroad may be brought back on landing crafts. The Transportation Ministry will launch a specialized body to monitor the safe return of Israelis, in coordination with officials from the IDF’s Home Front Command and the National Emergency Authority (RAHEL).
Furthermore, Israel will take steps to evacuate non-citizens staying in the country, including teenagers on Birthright trips and tourists, because “they do not need to be here.”
Transportation MINISTER Miri Regev. (credit: Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)
Regev noted that “we will do everything to bring Israelis home,” but stressed that “it will take time, it will not happen overnight.” She also told Israelis stuck abroad that they “have nothing to worry about – you are abroad, enjoy.”
Rescue flights to begin within 72 hours, per Israeli reports
N12 reported on Monday that rescue flights will start within 72 hours. However, N12 noted that the plan includes only two flight landings per hour and will only land during daylight hours.
Ben-Gurion Airport has been closed since Thursday, and airlines canceled flights to Israel, leaving thousands of Israelis stranded abroad.
This is a developing story.
END
IDF targets trucks loaded with missile launchers, weapons moving to Tehran
Multiple Iranian weapons and missile launchers were destroyed in the air force strikes.
The Israel Air Force targeted several trucks carrying weapons, including trucks transporting surface-to-air missile launchers, moving from western Iran toward Tehran in an attempt to evade IDF strikes, the military announced on Monday.
The weapons and missile launchers were destroyed in the strikes.
The IDF said that it has shot down 80-90% of Iranian ballistic missiles fired at Israel, with only five to 10% of them hitting Israeli residential areas.
IRGC commander Hossein Salami tours the new ”missile city” at an undisclosed location in Iran, January 11, 2025 (credit: IRGC/WANA (West Asia News Agency)/Handout via REUTERS)
IDF reduces Iran’s missile launching capabilities
The IDF said that the air force’s success in destroying dozens of missile launchers and many missiles has reduced the pace of Iranian missiles launched from launching hundreds at a time to dozens at a time.
Iranian news outlet Nournews reported that the Islamic Republic’s military claimed to have discovered an Israeli supply of anti-tank guided missiles within the country.
This is a developing story.
Yonah Jeremy Bob contributed to this report.
END
Israel acted as an ally of the Iranian people,’ dissident journalist tells ‘Post’ – exclusive
Ghorbani, who left his home country in 2014, praised Israel’s strikes: “They are everything the Iranian people have dreamed of for the past 46 years.”
Niyak Ghorbani, an anti-regime Iranian journalist and advocate living in the UK, told The Jerusalem Post that he feels “both joy and sorrow” at the current war between Israel and Iran.
“I’m incredibly relieved that Israel’s military operations are targeting only the armed forces of the Islamic Republic — those whose hands are stained with the blood of millions of Iranians,” he said, while expressing that he is simultaneously “heartbroken for the anxiety people inside Iran are living through right now.”
Ghorbani – who left his home country in 2014 – praised Israel’s strikes against the Islamic Republic, saying they “are everything the Iranian people have dreamed of for the past 46 years.”
JPost Videos
“Israel has, for the first time, acted as an ally of the Iranian people — and taken vengeance on our behalf in a way no other government in the world ever has.”
For Ghorbani, the path to stability and peace lies in other world leaders “openly supporting regime change in Iran and backing our exiled Crown Prince.”
Note from Iranian dissident calling on Israel to target Iranian Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. (credit: SCREENSHOT/X)
“He is the one person who can preserve Iran’s territorial integrity and guarantee a peaceful, secular future — not just for Iran, but for the entire Middle East.”
Such a declaration of support, Ghorbani continued, would provide the Iranian people with the opportunity to rise up. “I am confident that the Iranian people are simply waiting for the moment when global powers declare their support for the hope of the nation: Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi,” he added.
When asked what it would take for the Iranian people to overthrow the regime, Ghorbani said “Iranians are brave — and intelligent. They know the Islamic Republic is waiting for them to rise up, only to slaughter them again and use the bloodshed as a distraction from its humiliating defeat.”
“The people don’t want to give the regime that excuse. We’ve seen executions for simply supporting Israel, or even speaking of peace.”
Therefore, he said the public is waiting “not passively, but strategically — for a clear signal from the West.Once that happens, defections from regime forces will accelerate, and Iran will collapse with minimal bloodshed. The people have protested repeatedly for 46 years.
Ghorbani – who lives in London – was critical of the UK government and its response.
“The British public are far wiser than the British government,” he told the Post. “People here understand that post-Islamic Republic, Iran can again be a true ally to Britain — just as it was in the past.”
“Unfortunately, the UK government has yet to accept that reality. It continues to place its trust in the terrorists of the Islamic Republic rather than in the people of Iran, whose message to the world is clear: peace and friendship.”
Because of the potential fall of the regime, Ghorbani said there is a real sense of hope among Iranian patriots and supporters of the Crown Prince.
However he stressed that many of the Islamic Republic’s former allies — those who helped destroy Iran in 1979 and later fled to the West after falling out with the regime — “still oppose the very existence of Israel.”
“Their only problem with the Islamic Republic is that they’re not in power themselves. Ideologically, they still share much of its DNA.”
As a final note, Ghorbani expressed to the Post that, “there is a deep and growing affection among Iranians for the people of Israel — and genuine trust in the Israeli Defence Forces.”
“People inside Iran understand clearly: the IDF has never targeted civilians, and never will. That distinction is not only recognized — it’s remembered, and it matters deeply.”
Multiple Iranian dissidents speak out
Iranian attorney and activist Elica Le Bon posted on X that she is “praying for the safety of the people of Iran and Israel.”
She emphasized that “there has never been a war between our people, only a failed attempt to divide an ancient bond between old friends.”
“Iranians and Jews/Israelis will remain united as ever, and our 2,500-year friendship will only be strengthened as we stand shoulder to shoulder through this. On the other side, there will be no daylight between us.”
Dissident Iranian journalist Masih Alinejad, who previously survived an Islamic Republic of Iran’s Intelligence Ministry’s kidnapping plot in 2021, wrote that it is a “strange feeling watching the same IRGC commanders who sent assassins to kill me in the US reportedly killed themselves.”
“If the FBI hadn’t arrested their agents outside my home in New York, I might not be here to write this.”
She added in another post: “For many people around the world, Islamic Republic’s senior military leaders who were killed by Israel will just be foreign names. For me & millions of Iranians, they are the monsters who have impoverished & tyrannized our families.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Gazelle Sharmahd, whose father, Jamshid, was kidnapped by the regime in 2020, held hostage, and then executed in 2024.
“We ask you not to call them the “leaders of Iran,” she wrote on X, “They are the enemies of Iran — leaders of yet another Arab-Islamist regime that kills the indigenous peoples of the Middle East, Jews and Iranians.”
In a separate message, she thanked former Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennnett for his support, saying “We have no doubt that Israelis stand with us—just as we have stood with them.”
She went on to condemn the “so-called “free world,”” adding that “Time and time again, they have betrayed not only the Jewish people—but the Iranian people.”
“While Jews were persecuted, demonized, and massacred, Iranians were tortured, mass executed, and left to die in the streets—sacrificed for billion-dollar deals with their Islamist oppressors.”
“We just need moral clarity,” she said. “The same clarity Israelis have shown us.”
German-Iranian activist Maral Salmassi posted a video of Iranians chanting: “Death to Khamenei!” “Death to the dictator!”
“Israel is doing what the world never dared, helping us Iranians decolonize our homeland,” she wrote.
Zelensky fired off over a dozen paragraphs in his latest tweetstorm on Saturday afternoon that can be read in full here.
He demanded the imposition of more sanctions against Russia’s banking and energy sectors, complained about the “warm” tone of the US-Russian dialogue, expressed worries about reduced aid, fearmongered about Russia’s military-industrial complex, and pushed back against claims that he’s oppressing Russians, Russian speakers, and Russian Orthodox Christians. He’s clearly panicking.
In the order that he made his points, the first one about sanctions alludes to the proposed bill to impose 500% tariffs on Russia’s energy clients, which would likely be applied towards China and India if passes with waivers for EU countries (and probably only those that meet Trump’s defense spending demands). Politico warned that this could backfire against the US, however, while the Treasury Secretary warned that it could undermine diplomatic efforts. It’s thus little wonder that Zelensky is panicking about this.
Moving along, Zelensky’s complaints about the “warm” tone of the US-Russian dialogue are a direct response to the Trump-Putin bonhomie, the latest manifestation of which saw Putin calling Trump on Saturday to wish him happy birthday alongside discussing the latest phase of the Israeli-Iranian War. It’s still anyone’s guess whether Trump will disengage from NATO’s proxy war on Russia through Ukraine or double down on it, but judging by Zelensky’s tweetstorm, he’s taking the first possibility very seriously.
This observation leads to the third point that he made about reduced US aid, which follows the Secretary of Defense recently announcing such cuts in the next budget but without detailing how much they’ll be. While it’s possible to drastically scale up aid even in those conditions if the decision is made as proven by how much unplanned support the Biden Administration gave Ukraine in 2022, from Zelensky’s perspective, the writing on the wall is that Trump is presently disinterested in doing this.
His fourth point is the least disputable of the five since even the New York Times admitted as far back as September 2023 that Russia is far ahead of NATO in the “race of logistics”/“war of attrition”. As could have been expected, Zelensky also fearmongered about Russia’s intentions by implying that it might be plotting to invade NATO, but mostly everyone is numb to that narrative by now. It therefore probably won’t be enough to convince the West, especially the US, to resume 2023-like levels of aid.
And finally, the last point that he made in response to Russia’s fact-based accusations that Ukraine is oppressing Russians, Russian speakers, and Russian Orthodox Christians is purely rhetorical and doesn’t even attempt to respond to the substance of these claims, which exposes it as hollow and him as guilty. He’s panicking because he fears that the US might coerce Ukraine into changing its domestic policies as part of Russia’s denazification demand for peace if Trump truly wants to wash his hands of this conflict.
Altogether, his tweetstorm says a lot about Ukraine’s increasingly difficult position if one reads between the lines, with this being brought about by Russia’s arrival in Dnipropetrovsk. Even if only some of what Zelensky is worried about comes to pass, especially reduced US aid and forthcoming American pressure upon Ukraine to comply with Russia’s demands, then the conflict might end sooner than expected. To be sure, this can’t be taken for granted, but it’s realistic enough of a scenario to make Zelensky panic.
6. GLOBAL ISSUES//COVID ISSUES/VACCINE ISSUES/HEALTH ISSUES
Karen Kingston
EXCLUSIVE: BioNTech Presentations Confirm that Pfizer Used Self-Amplifying mRNA in COVID-19 Shots
Robert H
This really begs one to question whether drugs like ivermectin etc. act to impede self-amplifying mRNA? This is because with the current onslaught of turbo cancer and the like and reports of success with cheap drugs one cannot help but wonder with foreign mRNA does not act as a catalyst to various diseases that the body would normally succeed in fighting off. In the case of cancer everyone has cancer cell growth which the body keeps in check. It is only when a healthy immune system is compromised that such illnesses run amok.
Today seemingly when incident of such illness occurs at an alarming rate across a broad cross section of people, the question must be asked. If no other reason than public health. There is enough damage done to date. Without further cause of loss to families across the world where such mRNA shots were given.
This really begs one to question whether drugs like ivermectin etc. act to impede self-amplifying mRNA? This is because with the current onslaught of turbo cancer and the like and reports of success with cheap drugs one cannot help but wonder with foreign mRNA does not act as a catalyst to various diseases that the body would normally succeed in fighting off. In the case of cancer everyone has cancer cell growth which the body keeps in check. It is only when a healthy immune system is compromised that such illnesses run amok.
Today seemingly when incident of such illness occurs at an alarming rate across a broad cross section of people, the question must be asked. If no other reason than public health. There is enough damage done to date. Without further cause of loss to families across the world where such mRNA shots were given. “
Sportswriter Bill Plaschke has Parkinson’s; CA: soccer GM Ted Goveia has esophageal cancer; UK: King Charles’ cancer “incurable,” singer Natasha Hamilton (Atomic Kitten) has skin cancer; & more
Shari Redstone is the top shareholder in National Amusements, Inc., parent company of Paramount Global.
Shari Redstone Has Been Diagnosed With Thyroid Cancer
June 5, 2025
As the future of her father’s sprawling entertainment empire hangs in the balance, Shari Redstone has made a startling health revelation, divulging that she has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The news, first reported by the New York Times, was confirmed by a spokesperson on Thursday, who said the 71-year-old Redstone was diagnosed earlier this spring. “While it has been a challenging period, she is maintaining all professional and philanthropic activities throughout her treatment, which is ongoing. She and her family are grateful that her prognosis is excellent,” the spokesperson said. Redstone’s condition was discovered when she went to her doctor about two months ago for symptoms including fatigue. Redstone’s thyroid gland was removed in a surgery that took place last month, she told the Times. After cancer cells were found to have spread to her vocal chords, she is currently undergoing radiation treatment.
‘Stranger Things’ Andrey Ivchenko ‘Blown Away’ by Support From Former Costars Amid Rare Cancer Battle
May 19, 2025
Actor Andrey Ivchenko has been on a difficult health journey since being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that resulted in having half of his pelvis removed and a full hip replacement – but Stranger Things executive producer Shawn Levy and his former costars have been a ray of light in the darkness. Andrey, who played Grigori in season 3 of the hit Netflix show, exclusively tells Life & Style that he’ll be “forever grateful” for the love and well-wishes he’s received from his Stranger Things family amid his grueling battle against chondrosarcoma — a rarebone cancer that often grows slowly and occurs “most often in the pelvis, hip and shoulder,” according to the Mayo Clinic. As Life & Style previously reported, Andrey exclusively told the outlet that his health journey after his diagnosis with cancer felt “so endless” and had many “ups and downs,” but he’s glad to be “on the other side of the darkness” now.
Researcher's Note – Andrey Ivchenko was featured in at least two Hollywood projects between 2021-2023: Hollywood’s On-Set Vaccine [sic] Mandates to End on May 12, 2023
WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair announces skin cancer diagnosis: ‘It’s the second time in three years’
June 6, 2025
Ric Flair is going a second round with skin cancer. The legendary professional wrestler confirmed his cancer diagnosis on Friday. Flair, 76, will begin treatment next week. According to People, Flair denied online reports about his diagnosis on Thursday before later admitting it to the publication. Known as “The Nature Boy”, Flair is one of the most accomplished pro wrestlers in history.
Victor Conte, SNAC founder, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer
June 4, 2025
Victor Conte, the controversial and self-described reformed supervisor of several elite boxers’ conditioning programs, has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Conte, 74, informed BoxingScene that he will begin chemotherapy treatments shortly, which are expected to last at least three months. Conte revealed that conversations with his oncologist, gastroenterologist, primary physician and others consulting him leave hope for recovery from a diagnosis that is often grim. “The cancer’s at an advanced stage locally but has not spread to any other organs in my body,” Conte said. “I’ll do chemo weekly for three months – maybe four – during which doctors hope to shrink the tumor enough to be able to go in and remove the tumor with NanoKnife surgery. That’s the plan.”
Running Podcaster Ali Feller, 40, Reveals She Has Stage 4 Breast Cancer
June 6, 2025
New Hampshire – Ali Feller, the 40-year-old host of podcast “Ali on the Run Show,” has revealed her breast cancer has returned and has turned metastatic. On June 6, just eight months after completing treatment and being declared cancer-free, Feller shared on Instagram that she has Stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to her bones. “This intense, debilitating, at times immobilizing pain came out of nowhere,” Feller, a running enthusiast who participated in the Boston Marathon in April, captioned a photo of herself lying in a hospital bed. “I am up to my eyeballs in cancer admin. I am sad. I am scared. I am as delusionally optimistic as ever. I am angry,” she wrote. “Could I have prevented this? Should I have done something — a million things — differently?” she asked. “I was living my best, happiest life. I had the dreamiest spring. It crashed down so hard, so fast, so unexpectedly,” she wrote. Feller revealed that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023 at the same time her marriage was ending during an interview on NPR’s “All Things Considered.” After undergoing a double mastectomy, several rounds of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, her doctors declared her cancer-free in September 2024.
Fox anchor Mike Jerrick left shocked after being diagnosed with skin cancer live on air
June 6, 2025
The unexpected moment happened during a recent segment on the importance of mole checks, when Fox 29’s Good Day Philadelphia co-anchor Mike Jerrick [74] invited Dr Joanna Walker, a dermatologist from the Tara Miller Melanoma Center at the University of Pennsylvania, to examine a few spots on his arm. As the pair chatted on camera, Dr Walker pointed to a patch on Jerrick’s elbow and immediately flagged it as suspicious. “So this is a basal cell skin cancer,” she said, examining the area. “That has all the features of the most common type of skin cancer.” While she reassured Jerrick that it was “very treatable” and “a very slow growing type of skin cancer,” she also made clear that it needed to be removed. When Jerrick asked, “What are you gonna do to it? Burn it off?”, Dr. Walker responded, “This one probably needs to be cut and stitched.” Clearly taken aback, Jerrick replied, “What!? And then stitch me up?” Speaking later on the broadcast, Jerrick opened up about the shock of the moment. “I did say that we should have had her bring her scope because I wanted to check out a couple of things on my arms,” he said. “So that part was planned. But I never really thought it was going to be skin cancer.”
Researcher's Note – Instagram @mikejerrick: Shot in the arm! Grateful! #pfizer #pfizervacine #gratitude #thankful #covid_19 #vaccine #coronaviruspandemic #coronavirus #shots @pennmedicine @fox29philly
Fox has quietly implemented its own version of a vaccine [sic] passport while its top personalities attack them
How A Cancer Diagnosis Inspired My Performance As Nurse Dana On ‘The Pitt”
June 5, 2025
Actor Katherine LaNasa [58] considers her role to be a ‘love letter’ to the nurses who cared for her. “In February 2023, I was diagnosed with Stage I breast cancer—and I’m ready to share my story now in a way that I hope is useful. I was coming off the third season premiere of the TV series Truth Be Told, and when the red carpet photos popped up online, I thought I looked happy and healthy. Due for my annual mammogram, I went in to see the doctor. After two mammograms and two biopsies, the results, this time, came back cancerous. The cancer hadn’t progressed to my lymph nodes. I didn’t have the BRCA gene. I was told the cancer was located right of my sternum—not coincidentally the place in my body where I hold most of my stress. I began treatment—surgery and about three weeks of daily radiation—in March 2023. I saw those big machines as a sign of how fortunate I am—fortunate to have the means to seek care and treatment, and fortunate that somebody cared enough about people to create this device to shoot radiation into me and save my life.”
Researcher's Note – Katherine LaNasa was featured in at least two Hollywood projects between 2021-2023: Hollywood’s On-Set Vaccine [sic] Mandates to End on May 12, 2023
TLC Reality TV Star Marian ‘GG’ Derrico, 75, Says Her Chemo Treatment for Lung Cancer Was ‘Rough,’ Still Determined to Keep Fighting
June 8, 2025
Marian “GG” Derrico, the beloved matriarch of TLC’s “Doubling Down With the Derricos,” is facing a pivotal moment in her 11-year battle with lung cancer. After previously putting the disease into remission, the 75-year-old watched it return—this time growing to the size of a baseball. While chemotherapy treatment helped shrink the tumor, the punishing side effects have taken an overwhelming toll. Now, Derrico is contemplating new treatment paths, determined to fight for more time with her family. Marian, the beloved grandmother on the popular reality TV show, was first diagnosed with lung cancer in 2014. Years later, in 2022, she learned the cancer had returned and the tumor had grown substantially in size before chemotherapy helped shrink it back down. It’s important to note that specific details on the type of lung cancer and the exact stage it is in are unknown publicly at this time.
RHONJ’s Dolores Catania Says Weight Loss Meds Stopped Working & She Had Cardiac Ablation, Addresses ‘Real Housewives of Rhode Island’ Rumors
June 5, 2025
Dolores Catania is sharing a serious health update. The 54-year-old Real Housewives of New Jersey alum and Margaret Josephs appeared on SiriusXM’s Jeff Lewis Live. During the interview, Dolores revealed that her weight loss medication has stopped working and that she was recently treated for a cardiac ablation. “I’m having a really hard time right now. My Mounjaro stopped working. I gained 20 pounds,” she said on the radio show. “I stopped taking it for like a month ’cause I was, I mean I didn’t post about this yet, but I’m going to soon. I had a cardiac ablation, so I did. I said, ‘Well, I might as well stop taking it anyway.’ I had AFib. Remember Paul went in the hospital and had this ablation done. This heart ablation,” she continued. She also confirmed it wasn’t contagious, saying: “No. I don’t know what it’s from. I don’t know what it’s from. He had something different. He had a congenital thing. I had something new thata lot of people are getting now at a young age. They said this is for older people so they can say it’s from something, I’m not gonna say what, but there’s no proof of that.” “The COVID shot,” Jeff Lewis said. Margaret Josephs added: “We could say it.” Dolores went on: “That’s not what the doctors said because they won’t commit to that, but they’re like, ‘Yeah, so there’s no reason for you to have this.’ My heart was like beating a lot, so I had to go in for a cardiac ablation, so I’m gonna say maybe that’s why.”
Researcher's Note – Dolores Catania was featured in at least seven Hollywood projects between 2021-2023: Hollywood’s On-Set Vaccine [sic] Mandates to End on May 12, 2023: Link
Bill Plaschke announces Parkinson’s diagnosis in Los Angeles Times column
June 8, 2025
Bill Plaschke [66], the iconic Los Angeles Times sports columnist, has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. He announced it in a column in the Sunday newspaper, writing, “I’ve got Parkinson’s, and it hurts to even say it.” Plaschke, who also recently bid farewell to his recurring role on ESPN’s Around the Horn, revealed he got the diagnosis four years ago — and kept it secret. To keep up with his regular lifestyle, Plaschke takes an “immense” amount of medication and works out at Kaizen Kinetics in L.A.
Researcher's Note – ESPN Employees Must be Vaccinated [sic]: Link
Ex-MMA star Ben Askren battling ‘severe pneumonia’ in hospital, wife says
June 8, 2025
Ben Askren [40], a former mixed martial arts competitor who fought in the Olympics and UFC, was hospitalized recently with a severe illness, his wife said in a post on social media. Amy Askren revealed that her husband was fighting off a sickness in a post on Facebook on Saturday.
Mayor Mobalade recovering after being diagnosed with double pneumonia
June 6, 2025
Colorado Springs [CO] Mayor Yemi Mobalade [46] is recovering after being diagnosed with double pneumonia and spending the last two nights in the hospital. Doctors did tests and found out he had double pneumonia and a major blockage in a main artery. Staff cleared the blockage during a minor procedure on Wednesday. Mayor Mobolade says if not for the pneumonia, doctors would never have found the blockage. He was released from UCHealth Memorial Central on Friday.
Ticats GM says he has been diagnosed with “a serious form of cancer”
June 6, 2025
Hamilton Tiger-Cats general manager Ted Goveia says he has been diagnosed with “a serious form of cancer that’s spread.” In a story posted on the club’s website Friday, Goveia, 55, said the diagnosis was made in April. Although there was no specific mention as to the form of the disease, two league sources said Goveia is battling esophageal cancer. Goveia, of Burlington, Ont., was named Hamilton’s GM on Dec. 5, 2024, following 11 years with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Researcher's Note – CFL follows NFL sets 85 percent vaccine [sic] threshold, teams face forfeits and players lost wages: Link
King Charles’ Cancer Is Incurable, Bombshell Report Suggests
June 7, 2025
King Charles will die “with” but not “of” cancer, a bombshell report claimed Saturday. The report essentially confirms long-standing rumors that the king’s cancer is considered manageable but ultimately incurable, which is the case for many older individuals afflicted by the disease. Charles is 76. The report will be unwelcome in the palace, as it will reignite speculation that the king’s health is in a delicate state, rumors that were brought to fever pitch when Prince Harry said in a recent BBC interview that he didn’t know how long his father had left to live. The report, by the respected royal writer and associate editor of the U.K. Daily Telegraph, Camilla Tominey, also claimed that Charles will never move into Buckingham Palace due to his health struggles. A spokesperson for the king declined to comment. The report added that planning for Charles’ 80th birthday in 2028, while “very tentative,” is going ahead.
Researcher's Note – Prince Charles and Camilla receive their first COVID-19 vaccines [sic]: Link
we underestimated and discounted the evolutionary dynamics and complex interplay between population immune pressure and circulating viral infectious pressure, bi-directional
‘My warnings about the bleak outcome of this pandemic — which started as a natural event but was turned into a massive in vivo gain-of-function experiment by human intervention — have mostly been met with scorn. Many people think I’m an idiot or a conspiracy theorist. But honestly, I don’t let it get to me too much. I understand that if you haven’t really dug into the complex dynamics of this immune escape pandemic, it’s almost impossible to see that my predictions are actually based on rational, scientific reasoning.
Alexander News Network (ANN): Trump’s War 2.0 for America is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
On the flip side, those with whom I feel aligned in terms of mindset and aware of the damage caused by this large-scale interference in population immunity often call me a “visionary”. They seem amazed by how easily they think I can “see the future.” That label, though, because calling it “visionary” kind of downplays all the years of scientific insights, careful reasoning, and hard-earned knowledge behind it.
Voice for Science and Solidarity by Geert Vanden Bossche is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Subscribe
In the past, I used to write (too) long articles, hoping that at least my peers or public health authorities would understand my reasoning — maybe even challenge it. Now, I try to keep things more concise. And this is my final attempt to clearly and as briefly as possible explain where we’re heading in this ongoing pandemic, and why the current developments — even though they can’t be reversed — are unfolding painfully slowly, yet certainly. These days, ChatGPT is a huge help when it comes to explaining concepts or terms people might not be familiar with or breaking down scientific jargon, I sometimes assume you already understand. So please feel free to check with ChatGPT whenever you feel like I’m skipping steps or making things too dense. Below, I’ve highlighted in bold the terms that you can easily have ChatGPT define and explain. I honestly don’t understand why evolutionary biologists still haven’t acknowledged the crystal-clear case of SARS-CoV-2 (SC-2) adapting under population-level immune pressure as a textbook example of one of the fields they’re supposed to study, i.e., evolutionary ecology! Most of them have stayed surprisingly quiet about the catastrophic impact of the large-scale COVID-19 (C-19) vaccination campaign, despite its huge impact on the dynamics of SC-2 evolution and the host adaptive immune response. The only conclusion I can draw is that they lack the necessary background in virology, immunology, and vaccinology to fully grasp how the immunological landscape in a highly C-19 vaccinated population affects viral evolutionary dynamics.
About entropy, resilience and chaos…
As a bit of context, I’d first like to point out how this pandemic fits perfectly into today’s broader pattern of entropic, disorder-related events occurring across almost all layers of industrialized societies. To name just a few: disruption, disintegration, discontinuity, disharmony, distortion, displacement, dissonance, distrust, dissent, dysregulation, dysfunction, dystopia, destruction, degeneration, deterioration, degradation, destabilization, decoupling…
However, disturbances in natural balance don’t necessarily transition into full-blown chaos or system breakdown. Still, without mechanisms for adaptation or resilience, there’s a very real risk that systems collapse — suddenly and irreversibly. Where it is currently most obvious—at least to me—that we are running out of the ability to adapt or remain resilient is in the ongoing immune escape pandemic: after 5–6 years of increasingly disruptive influences — mainly irrational infection-control measures followed by poorly thought-out mass vaccination — the population’s immunity has largely lost its ability to effectively adapt to continued viral immune escape. Once the elastic is stretched to its limit, there may be no more tension left (hence the current decline in case numbers and viral spread), but any further traction meets a total lack of resilience — and the elastic just snaps very suddenly! Given the current situation and the absence of protective herd immunity, and thus the lack of control over virus transmission, we have no choice but to let the pandemic run its course. It’s just a matter of time before the elastic will snap… and probably not much. I still believe that in this high-entropy phase of modern civilization, further viral evolution in highly C-19 vaccinated populations is the most likely factor to trigger societal collapse. This non-linear collapse would likely prevent the breakdown of other already-strained systems. This might be the only positive element in an otherwise bleak scenario.
The evolutionary pathobiology of SC-2: It’s not a never-ending story!
In the context of the currently diminished adaptive immune pressure exerted by highly C-19 vaccinated populations, the (co-)dominance of viral variants is no longer primarily driven by immune escape. Poorly selective immune pressure—e.g., resulting from low-affinity, poorly epitope-specific antibodies and suboptimally functional T cells—slows down viral immune escape, as it fails to strongly favor specific viral variants capable of evading the host immune response. Consequently, newly emerging immune escape variants of SC-2 no longer exhibit a significant competitive fitness advantage, as they do not replicate substantially better than circulating variants. In addition, the broadening of population-level immune pressure requires the virus to accumulate multiple epitope mutationssimultaneously to effectively escape host immunity. The generation of such immune escape variants is therefore likely to require more time, particularly in view of the reduced replication advantage and potential fitness costs associated with these accumulated mutations.
In the absence of significant immune selection pressure, variants with higher intrinsic infectiousness may leverage this fitness advantage to dominate via purifying selection, thereby tending to genetically stabilize the SC-2 landscape by purging immune escape variants that carry a fitness cost due to harmful mutations. However, given the immune-mediated reduction in viral load shed by the reservoir of chronicallySC-2 infected individuals—reflected by low wastewater viral RNA levels—combined with rising summer temperatures, it is reasonable to assume that highly C-19-vaccinated population are increasingly facing a transmission bottleneck, despite the enhanced replicative fitness of newly emerging variants. This may explain why viral variants currently increasing in prevalence have integrated mutations that interfere with the host’s innate antiviral defenses, thereby amplifying viral load and shedding, and enhancing their transmissibility. Although such additional mutations may, in turn, compromise viral fitness, variants carrying them may exploit this transient transmission advantage before being eliminated through purifying selection. This is particularly relevant when considering large bottlenecked or chronically SC-2-infected populations, such as highly C-19–vaccinated cohorts. Provided that a newly emerging variant replicates at sufficiently high titers and harbors ‘tolerable’ mutations that impair the host’s innate antiviral immunity—such as those inhibiting or suppressing type I interferon (IFN) induction (https://x.com/mrmickme2/status/1927515038098620651)—the mutation sampling effect may become strong enough to allow the virus to exploit a narrow window of opportunity to overcome the transmission bottleneck. Under such conditions, even atypical or seemingly disadvantageous mutations can be positively selected, despite the absence of genuine adaptive immune selection pressure. The narrowing of the immune-mediated SC-2 transmission bottleneck by high environmental temperatures may already explain why the NB.1.8.1 variant is currently on the rise in Southeast Asia, leading to a surge in infections and increased hospitalizations among vulnerable individuals. This illustrates that even immune escape variants bearing rare mutations with an intrinsic fitness cost can dominate if they confer a sufficient transmission advantage—for instance, by weakening or impairing additional key components of the host’s innate immune defense. This enables faster intra-host replication in chronically SC-2-infected individuals and more efficient inter-host transmission, allowing such variants to outcompete all other intra-host strains and rapidly rise to dominance in the population.
The dominance of highly infectious and more transmissible variants, as described above, may also explain why infections with the currently circulating strains provoke more pronounced localized viral replication in the upper respiratory tract (URT), often resulting in severe throat inflammation—commonly referred to as ‘razor blade throat.’
However, as extensively referenced in my online courses, strong inflammatory signals triggered by enhanced viral replication in the URT upregulate lectin expression on the surface of URT-patrolling migratory dendritic cells (DCs), which in turn reduces the replicative fitness of the transmitted virus. There is little doubt that this innate, DC-mediated antiviral mechanism will be countered by the emergence of new variants that not only benefit from the aforementioned transmission advantage but also incorporate additional mutations that suppress infection-inhibiting innate immunoinflammatory signaling—e.g., through modulation of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), co-stimulatory molecules, or pro-inflammatory cytokine responses—that would normally be triggered by productive viral infection, or that alternatively modify the viral glycosylation profile to prevent effective binding of viral glycans to DC-associated lectins. Even if such additional mutations compromise viral viability, some of these newly emerging immune escape variants may evade purifying selection by achieving transmission before being eliminated, as explained above. Hence, such newly emerging variants would effectively use currently (co-)circulating variants—such as NB.1.8.1—as a stepping stone for further adaptive evolution, enabling the virus to further undermine the maladaptive immune response that meanwhile prevails in large segments of highly C-19 vaccinated populations.
If a highly infectious circulating variant acquires such a dual-function immune evasion mutation, it will not only exhibit high replicative and transmission fitness but also evade both innate and adaptive immune responses. This is precisely where I anticipate that highly C-19–vaccinated populations will generate an evolutionary environment conducive to increased viral virulence (see the diagram below). Of course, as the immune forces currently at play are no longer selective, purifying selection is increasingly contributing to the slowdown in the dominant circulation of new immune escape variants. This delay in the evolutionary trajectory of newly emerging immune escape variants toward (co-)dominance leaves public health authorities with the illusory impression that the pandemic is finally transitioning into a stable equilibrium between population-level immunity and the virus—thanks, ostensibly, to the mass vaccination program!!
As explained extensively before, what we are currently witnessing is not a true equilibrium, but rather a metastable one— one that can easily be disrupted by a small additional perturbation (i.e., a few extra mutations, even ones that may be detrimental to viral fitness!), creating just enough added tension to cause sudden destabilization—making the elastic snap and thereby rendering a newly emerging immune escape variant highly virulent!
As I have long warned, “Society in Highly C-19–Vaccinated Countries Will Be Caught by Surprise,” as the rise of increasingly immune-subversive SC-2 variants diverts the attention of the medical community toward all kinds of other infectious and non-infectious diseases—many of which are increasing in prevalence due to vaccine breakthrough infection (VBTI)-associated immune dysregulation. Meanwhile, few anticipate the emergence of a novel, highly infectious, and fully immune-resistant variant that could exploit an enormous transmission advantage, culminating in rapid global dominance and the onset of a new, highly virulent pandemic. Indeed, no one is anticipating such a sudden and dramatic shift in highly C-19 vaccinated populations. The current spread of NB.1.8.1 and the associated rise in disease cases is not yet recognized as the harbinger of this disastrous but inevitable evolution.
If my analysis is correct, one should expect HIghly VIrulent OmiCRON descendants (HI-VI-CRON) to emerge in these highly C-19 vaccinated populations—particularly among individuals with weakened or untrained cell-based innate immunity (i.e., primarily elderly and adult individuals), and especially during the hot season! Summer will therefore reveal whether the title of my book was justified: ‘The Inescapable Immune Escape Pandemic’.”
In summary: Beyond the well-documented direct side effects of the mRNA-based ‘vaccine’ injections, highly vaccinated C-19 populations are now increasingly witnessing excess mortality due to vaccine-associated immune dysregulation. This is the result of immune escape, a phenomenon that, for example, arises from the improper deployment of the immune system’s ‘special forces’ (i.e., B and T cells), such as through mass vaccination during a pandemic, or through improper training of these special forces, such as by using mRNA-based ‘vaccines’. Both scenarios lead to immune refocusing, which either generates or sustains immune escape and thereby leads to repeated VBTIs. Due to immune refocusing, highly C-19 vaccinated populations exert immune pressure on the virus — initially selective, but ultimately non-selective — causing viral evolution and the intra-host amplification of new immune escape variants in chronically SC-2-infected hosts to proceed increasingly slowly. As a result, inter-host transmission becomes compromised, creating a natural positive selection among already highly infectious variants for specimens that, due to harboring mutations which actively suppress or evade innate immune sensing (e.g. via changes in NSP1, ORF6, or dsRNA processing), acquire increased transmission fitness — even if this comes at a fitness cost (and thus they may be relatively harmless to the unvaccinated population!). However, mutations that impair immunoinflammatory signaling, or otherwise prevent activation of antigen-presenting cells (APCs), inevitably further weaken the already dysregulated adaptive immunity, which then completely loses its disease-protective function. Together with the compromised innate immunity, this opens the door wide to increased viral virulence.
In Conclusion: As a matter of fact, it seems that undermining the last bastion of the host’s innate immunity has now become a conditio sine qua non for the virus to enhance transmission and ensure survival in the population. However, downregulation or impairment of innate immunoinflammatory signaling or virus uptake by APCs—processes necessary to prime adaptive immune responses such as T and B cell activation—will further compromise an already maladaptive immune response. This response has been massively mobilized and served as the cornerstone of protection against symptomatic VBTIs, despite all the immune dysregulation and associated disorders it generated. It seems, therefore, that viral survival will inevitably be associated with enhanced virulence, and there is little immune buffer capacity left to delay a spectacular wave of hyperacute systemic disease in highly C-19 vaccinated populations.
Although highly compelling, the above-described evolutionary mechanism is unprecedented in the history of clinical virology and underappreciated by our public health authorities. They prefer to learn by watching from the sidelines. This is perhaps the most unbelievable—but real—example of irresponsible behavior from an official authority that should have only one priority: protecting people’s health! Instead, they have orchestrated a large-scale gain-of-function experiment on the human species, leading to convergent evolution of dramatic immune dysregulation and catastrophic viral immune escape.
So, Africa, when your victory is a done deal, it will be up to you to take the lead.’
NEWS ADDICTS
LATEST NEWS
Israel’s Netanyahu claims Iran tried to assassinate Trump two timesIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed during an interview, on Sunday, that Iran made two attempts to assassinate President Trump. Speaking with host Bret Baier, Netanyahu didn’t mince words, pointing directly at Tehran as the source of multiple plots to eliminate the man he called Iran’s “enemy number one.” The interview, which aired on Fox’s “Special Report,” adds a chilling …READ MORE
Patel Blasted Over Shocking InactionAllies of President Donald Trump are growing frustrated with the leadership of FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, accusing them of failing to follow through on key investigative promises.On Wednesday, the conservative group Judicial Watch issued a harsh public statement criticizing both Patel and Bongino.The organization, known for its strong alignment with Trump, said the pair have …READ MORE
DOJ Issues Stark Warning Amid Nationwide UnrestThe Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a nationwide alert to all 94 U.S. Attorney Offices on Thursday, urging preparation for possible criminal investigations in connection with planned protests against the Trump administration.Thousands of demonstrators are expected to participate in the “No Kings” protests across the country on Saturday, opposing policies enacted by the Trump administration.In a statement to Fox News …READ MORE
NEWSWIZE
LATEST REPORTS FOR NEWS JUNKIES
Man Drives Through Crowd of ‘No Kings’ Protesters in VirginiaA man has reportedly driven through a crowd of leftist protesters at a “No Kings” protest near Washington, D.C, injuring at least one person.Leftist groups are holding over 1,800 anti-ICE demonstrations across the nation today.Groups behind the protests plan to avoid D.C., instead holding a flagship march in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and other demonstrations in Maryland and Virginia towns that border …READ THE FULL REPORT
Suspect in Lawmaker Assassination Was a Tim Walz Appointee — ‘No Kings’ Flyers Found in His CarThe suspect in the rampage shootings of Minnesota Democrat State Sen. John Hoffman and State Rep. Melissa Hortman and their spouses was an appointee of Democrat Governor Tim Walz, according to reports.Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced Saturday morning that state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband did not survive the attack at their home, which took place after 2 a.m. …READ THE FULL REPORT
Suspect in Minnesota Dem Shootings Had a ManifestoMinnesota State Senator John Hoffman and State Rep. Melissa Hortman, both Democrats, were shot by a man who was dressed as a police officer earlier this morning. The suspect, Vance Boelter, was a private sector representative appointee of Tim Walz for a state development board. He is still at large, exchanging gunfire with police officers. Boelter abandoned a fake police …READ THE FULL REPORT
Watch: Trump’s Military Parade Honoring Army’s 250th Founding Anniversary Kicks OffPresident Donald Trump’s historic military parade honoring the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary kicked off in the nation’s capital Saturday evening.Thousands of Americans, including veterans, youth and dads celebrating Father’s Day, flocked to downtown D.C. wearing “Make America Great Again” hats and patriotic gear displaying Old Glory despite the balmy weather and brewing thunderstorms.The crowds went wild with applause upon Trump’s …READ THE FULL REPORT
Watch: Far-Left Philadelphia DA Threatens to Arrest ICE AgentsPhiladelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner delivered a hyper-partisan speech ahead of Saturday’s planned anti-ICE demonstrations in the city. The Soros-backed D.A. claimed President Donald Trump is planning a “military overthrow” of the United States, compared ICE to Nazi Germany and suggested he will be filing charges against federal agents.More than 1,500 “protests” are planned in cities and small towns nationwide …READ THE FULL REPORT
MIKE EVERY/OR PICTON OR RABOBANK EXECUTIVE/COMMENTARY ON WORDLY AFFAIRS
7.OIL AND NATURAL GAS//GLOBAL/ENERGY/
Oil And Gold Jump As Israel Targets Iranian Energy Infrastructu
Sunday, Jun 15, 2025 – 08:26 PM
Oil jumped in late Sunday trading with investors focused on escalating geopolitical tensions as Israel and Iran continue to bombard each other with no sign of a pause, amid some speculation the worst-case scenario – a blockade of the straits of Hormuz which could send oil as high as $130 – is increasingly likely (odds rising to 17% according to JPM).
Brent crude rose as much as 5.5% to $77.50 – its Thursday night high – in early Asian trading after Israel and Iran continued attacks on one another’s territories over the weekend. The price then promptly ease back as shorts who stand to suffer massive losses in case of a squeeze, doubled down by shorting even more in hopes the crises somehow de-escalates.
That’s a problem because unlike late last week, over the weekend Israel started attacking Iran’s energy infrastructure, and on Saturday launched an attack on the giant South Pars gas field in the Persian Gulf, forcing the shut down of a production platform, after air strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites and military leadership last week.
Asian equity-index futures pointed to declines in Hong Kong and Sydney, while contracts for US equities initially edged lower before stubborn retail dip buyers promptly emerged again. The dollar saw modest gains against major peers in early trading, while gold rose toward a record on Monday as the conflict drove investors toward haven assets.
Last week’s biggest market reaction to the conflict was oil, with crude prices surging more than 13% on Friday before paring some of those gains. The biggest concern for the market centers on the Strait of Hormuz and prices could soar further if Iran attempts to block the route. On Saturday, JPMorgan raised its odds of a Hormuz closure to 17%.
“Markets should be prepared for a prolonged period of uncertainty,” said Wolf von Rotberg, an equity strategist at Bank J. Safra Sarasin, quoted by Bloomberg. “Hedging against potential oil supply-chain disruptions via exposure to the energy market and adding to gold, which may see an acceleration of its structural uptrend, are the best ways to protect a portfolio against a further escalation in the Middle East.”
Some investors ended last week choosing to wait to gauge how long the tensions would last, mindful of similar standoffs between the two nations that eventually de-escalated. Still, the extension of the conflict and intensity of the current hostilities is likely to cast a shadow over risk assets on Monday. Already, the MSCI World Index of developed-market equities fell the most since April on Friday following Israel’s initial air strikes on Iran.
“This is a significant escalation, to the point where these nations are at war,” said Michael O’Rourke, chief market strategist at JonesTrading. “The ramifications will be larger and last longer,” with weakness in equity markets likely, especially after recent gains, he said.
While the drop in US stock futures was modest, most Middle East stock indexes suffered bigger losses on Sunday. Egypt’s main gauge was the worst performer, seeing the biggest losses in more than a year on concern that a halt in Israeli gas production will cause fuel shortages. In Saudi Arabia, the Tadawul gauge’s declines were limited by Aramco, which gained on higher oil prices. Israel’s benchmark ended higher as military supplier Elbit Systems Ltd. rallied.
Still, judging by the recent dip-buying euphoria, one can see why some are confident that this too will blow over quickly.
“Unless oil stays elevated and drives inflation higher, this is more likely a pause than a panic as other narratives are driving the market,” said Dave Mazza, chief executive officer, Roundhill Investments. “It may present a buying opportunity, but with markets having rallied sharply off recent lows, gains from here will be harder to come by.”
Traders are weighing the fresh geopolitical risks at a time when they are also grappling with destabilized global trade relationships, the prospect of new tariffs from Donald Trump, economic cross-currents, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and rising political tensions in the US amid protests.
end
dangerous!
Chokepoint Watch: GPS Jamming Impacts Tankers Across Strait Of Hormuz
Monday, Jun 16, 2025 – 08:05 AM
Despite Israel and Iran volleying missiles and bombs at one another over the weekend, Brent crude futures showed a surprisingly muted reaction Monday morning, initially gapping higher Sunday evening but flat to down.
Goldman Sachs analyst Ananya Prakash added color about the market’s restrained response, telling clients the “situation feels relatively contained” for now, with attention centered on potential supply disruptions—particularly the extreme scenario of Iran moving to close the Strait of Hormuz.
Bloomberg reports a surge in GPS jamming around the Strait of Hormuz, scrambling navigation for more than 900 vessels and hinting at a new form of disruption for the world’s most critical maritime chokepoint.
Here’s more from the report:
Starboard Maritime Intelligence and Bloomberg data showed vessels sailing impossibly straight lines in the region, zig- zagging across the water, or appearing onshore. The glitches — which have affected oil tankers, cargo ships, tugs and fishing boats among others since Friday — increase reliance on radars, compasses and eyesight, boosting the likelihood of collisions.
The Joint Maritime Information Center, an international naval task force monitoring the area, warned on Sunday that there are instances of “extreme jamming” of signals from the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas.
GPSJam—a site that publishes daily heat maps of GPS/GNSS disruptions affecting aircraft—shows multiple “high-interference” zones clustered around the Strait of Hormuz.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said on Monday it had received multiple reports of increasing GPS interference in maritime chokepoint:
UKMTO has received multiple reports and monitoring of AIS confirms, that there is increasing electronic interference within the waters of the Gulf and Straits of Hormuz. Whilst the level of electronic interference continues to rise across the wider region, the levels and intensity inside the Gulf are having a significant impact on vessels positional reporting through automated systems (AIS).
Despite reports of “high” GPS jamming across parts of the maritime chokepoint, there are currently no signs of an imminent Iranian blockade. However, any move to choke off the strait, which handles roughly a quarter of global oil trade, would likely send Brent crude futures soaring into triple-digit territory.
However, a separate Bloomberg report found some oil tanker operators and managers have paused offering their vessels for Middle East routes since Friday to let the dust settle.
JPMorgan commodity analyst Natasha Kaneva issued a warning over the weekend, stating that the odds increased of a “worst-case scenario” —defined as “the oil price reaction turning exponential rather than linear, with the impact on supply potentially extending beyond a 2.1 mb/d reduction in Iranian oil exports”—could push prices as high as $120–$130 per barrel. Read the full note here.
end
8. EMERGING MARKETS//AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND ISSUE
CANADA
YOUR EARLY CURRENCY/GOLD AND SILVER PRICING/ASIAN CLOSING MARKETS AND EUROPEAN BOURSE OPENING AND CLOSING/ INTEREST RATE SETTINGS MONDAY MORNING 6;30AM//OPENING AND CLOSING
EURO/USA: 1.1582 UP 0.0043 PTS OR 43 BASIS POINTS
USA/ YEN 146.00 UP 0.026 NOW TARGETS INTEREST RATE AT 1.00% AS IT WILL BUY UNLIMITED BONDS TO GETS TO THAT LEVEL…//YEN STILL FALLS//END OF YEN CARRY TRADE BEGINS AGAIN OCT 2024/Bank of Japan raises rates by .15% to 1.15..UEDA ENDS HIKING RATES AND NOW CARRY TRADES RE INVENTS ITSELF//
GBP/USA 1.3586 UP .0030 OR .30 BASIS PTS
USA/CAN DOLLAR: 1.3577 DOWN 0.0002 (CDN DOLLAR UP 2 BASIS PTS)
Last night Shanghai COMPOSITE UP 11.73 PTS OR 0.35%
Hang Seng CLOSED UP 168.83 PTS OR 0.40%
AUSTRALIA CLOSED UP .65%
// EUROPEAN BOURSE: ALL GREEN
Trading from Europe and ASIA
I) EUROPEAN BOURSES: ALL GREEN
2/ CHINESE BOURSES / :Hang SENG CLOSED UP 168.43 PTS OR 0.40%
/SHANGHAI CLOSED UP 11.73 PTS OR 0.25%
AUSTRALIA BOURSE CLOSED UP 0.65 %
(Nikkei (Japan) CLOSED UP 477.68 PTS OR 1.76%
INDIA’S SENSEX IN THE GREEN
Gold very early morning trading: 3420.50
silver:$36.38
USA dollar index early MONDAY morning: 97.50 DOWN .25 BASIS POINTS FROM FRIDAY’s CLOSE
A busy week ahead – Retail sales tomorrow, Fed Wednesday, Thursday closed for Juneteenth, big OpEx on Friday – was made more complex by the constant stream of headlines from the Middle East (and the G7 meeting). The main driver (of equity gains) was renewed optimism of cooler temperatures in the MidEast after Iran is reportedly leveraging Gulf states to get Trump to press Israel on a ceasefire. As the day wore on, we got confirmations and denials of the WSJ’s claims that Iran wanted to de-escalate, each time triggering a wave of market action in different assets.
Nasdaq was the day’s biggest gainer with The Dow the laggard (though all the majors were higher on the day)…
While the macro was light, there was some soft data – Empire Fed Manufacturing – which saw the headline print tumble but expectations soared by the most since the bailouts seen after Lehman, Europe’s crisis, and COVID…
Source: Bloomberg
Geopolitical uncertainty (proxied by Oil ‘VIX’) stabilized at 3 year highs (post-Ukraine/Russia), but did not decline…
Source: Bloomberg
…as global trade policy uncertainty continues to plunge…
Source: Bloomberg
Shorts were squeezed…
Source: Bloomberg
MegaCap tech stocks soared…
Source: Bloomberg
Cyclicals dominated Defensives…
Source: Bloomberg
The S&P 493 were sold all day following the initial short-squeeze open as Mag7 stocks performance dominated gains…
Source: Bloomberg
One of the market’s big supports – corporate buybacks – is starting to slow as the repurchase window closes…
Source: Goldman Sachs
Retail traders remain very active as Goldman shows in the following charts signaling huge volumes in penny stocks…
Source: Goldman Sachs
While Goldman noted that overall activity was flat-ish, the trading floor tilted -3% better for sale, driven by LOs
LOs are -6% better for sale. Supply here concentrated across Tech, Fins and HCare which are all >$100mm net for sale. Demand for Comm Svcs & Cons Disc much more modest
HFs are +10% better to buy, which ranks in the 95th %-ile and the highest we’ve witnessed since early January. Demand for Tech, Industrials, Fins and Cons Disc more than outweighs supply access Energy and Materials
So, once again, retail’s constant BTFD has forced in the Hedgies…
VIX fell today, almost erasing the rise triggered by Israel-Iran tensions…
Source: Bloomberg
…but the vol curve is pricing in some elevated uncertainty in the next couple of days (but not for the tariff ‘pause’ deadline)…
Source: Bloomberg
Treasury yields ended the day higher with the long-end underperforming…
Source: Bloomberg
The dollar ended marginally lower on the day, bouncing back after testing down to last week’s lows…
Source: Bloomberg
..but, as we noted earlier today, FX options traders are starting to pullback from the depths of despair in the dollar…
Source: Bloomberg
Oil prices (obviously) were chaotic with a major spike to Friday’s highs at Sunday night’s futures open, but then prices faded and legged down on the ‘seeking de-escalation’ reports…
Source: Bloomberg
Bitcoin continued in geopolitical opposite-world, rallying strongly on the Mideast optimism, erasing the losses from Israel’s initial attack last week…
Source: Bloomberg
Gold, on the other hand, erased the gains from last week (driven by shots fired between Israel and Iran)…
Source: Bloomberg
Finally, if you’re bullish, here’s your new favorite analog…
Source: Bloomberg
…will it be different this time?
BIG MORNING NEWS
Peter Tchir sums up everything perfectly
Peter Tchir…
Market Rapidly Evolving Towards Positive Outcome In The Middle East
While the fighting continues between Iran and Israel, the market is pricing in a positive outcome in the Middle East. Casualties continue to mount as Iran and Israel continue to attack each other, but an optimistic narrative is emerging.
Israel has the upper hand militarily. Through a combination of traditional military force, intelligence, espionage and even sabotage, Israel has demonstrated the ability to target specific leaders and sites, with a high degree of success. Iran on the other hand, seems to be confirming what many of our GIG stated back when Iran launched a thousand or so missiles and drones against Israel – the weapons weren’t as effective against Israel’s Iron Dome and other defenses as feared.
The proxies have gone quiet. Rather than seeing Israel attacked on multiple fronts, the proxies have been quite quiet. Damage done to the proxies since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7th 2023, has been substantial.
Iran is afraid to risk escalation to the point of direct U.S. involvement. While Iran has managed some strikes into Israel, the missile barrages seem dangerous, but not overwhelmingly so. Would they dare risk bringing the U.S. into more direct involvement? That would seem like a bad idea strategically from Iran, given their performance so far.
Straits of Hormuz likely to remain open. Threats about potentially trying to close this are largely being ignored (crude prices are slightly lower). Do they have the capability? Maybe, but that could bring the U.S. into the conflict in a more meaningful way. It would also not be surprising if China, via back channels, has messaged its preference to continue receiving Iranian oil.
Regime change is on the table. From the messaging Israel is sending, it is clear that they believe there is a potential to kindle a regime change in Iran. We should all assume they have some degree of intelligence giving them the confidence to go ahead with that messaging. While the IRGC is allegedly still a major force to be reckoned with (we will come back to the word “allegedly” shortly) this would be a major positive development for the region. As the GIG has been pointing out for the past 2 years, with increasing emphasis, Iran has become the outlier and the “enemy” of the Middle East rather than Israel. Many of the nations want to move on and continue to develop post fossil fuel economies – just look at the deals President Trump struck on his recent trip to the region. One can even wonder if Regime Change might be easier to accomplish than knocking out all the Nuclear Capabilities?
While anything can still happen while the fighting continues, the optimistic narrative seems plausible and is very positive.
Which brings us to the point where we need to think about further ramifications. Since China, the Chinese military and the possibility of attacking Taiwan come up in so many of our meetings, we cannot help but wonder if China has some doubt about their own military:
Russia turned out to be far less superior in the field than one would have expected on paper. They squandered a massive advantage in equipment early on, and while they continue to pound on Ukraine, they have failed to progress much beyond what they held before this all started.
North Korean troops made headlines by fighting alongside Russians in Ukraine. By all accounts, they had incredibly poor tactics (World War I style charges, leading to their own slaughter). While North Korea has nukes and missiles, and we need to continue to take them seriously, their military seemed lacking in practice (at least what we witnessed in Ukraine).
Iran’s “vaunted” missile systems. Not to diminish the deaths that have occurred, on both sides, but this has not been “shock and awe” levels of performance. While Iran has no air force, nor navy, so to speak, their air defense systems also seemed particularly vulnerable.
China, a year or so ago, had dismissals in their “elite” rocket and missile forces. During the brief altercation between India and Pakistan, the Chinese fighter jets supposedly performed well, but the Chinese anti-air defenses did not (that is the intelligence scuttlebutt that came out of that fighting).
If you are Xi, it seems almost impossible that you aren’t at least a tiny bit worried that your own rapidly growing military is merely a paper dragon.
Maybe this will encourage China to negotiate more fulsomely with the U.S. on the trade front?
In any case, hopefully given the recent talks and the focus on rare earths and critical minerals, the U.S. will embrace the policy of National Production for National Security which we touched on in this weekend’s On Shaky Ground.
The fighting continues, and there are risks, but what seemed like optimistic outcomes, now seems to be the most plausible outcomes.
At this rate, the FOMC meeting might be important, and we continue to expect the market to be surprised by a shift to dovishness from this Fed (as described in more detail in Sunday’s T-Report, linked above).
Minnesota state Democrat shot dead, another hurt in apparent assassination
‘This was an act of targeted political violence,’ says state’s governor, as manhunt ongoing for suspect who impersonated law enforcement, left car with flyers and manifesto
This combination of pictures created on June 14, 2025 shows Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman (left) and Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman.(Minnesota Senate photographer’s office and Paul Battaglia / Minnesota State Legislature / AFP)
WASHINGTON (AFP) — A gunman shot two Democratic state lawmakers in Minnesota early Saturday, killing one and her husband and wounding the other, in what the northern US state’s governor said were politically motivated attacks.
The shootings came at a moment of deep political divisions in the United States, as thousands took to the streets in protest at the policies of Republican President Donald Trump.
The suspected assailant was still at large, officials said, with a massive manhunt underway.
Trump and US Attorney General Pam Bondi decried what they called “horrific violence” and said the perpetrators would be prosecuted to “the fullest extent of the law.”
State representative Melissa Hortman — the former speaker — and her husband Mark were killed at their home near Minneapolis, Governor Tim Walz told a press conference.
State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette were shot and wounded, the governor said, his voice breaking with emotion. He said officials remained “cautiously optimistic” they would recover.
“This was an act of targeted political violence,” Walz told reporters.
“Peaceful discourse is the foundation of our democracy. We don’t settle our differences with violence or at gunpoint.”
Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said Hoffman and his wife were shot first, and as police investigated, Hortman and her husband were shot about 90 minutes later.
The suspected gunman was able to escape during an exchange of gunfire with officers near Hortman’s residence, Evans told reporters.
“We’re actively searching for that individual right now,” he said.
Impersonating law enforcement
In both cases, authorities believe the assailant was impersonating a law enforcement officer.
“The suspect exploited the trust that our uniform is meant to represent,” said Bob Jacobson, commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
Police deploy as a manhunt is underway for a shooter who targeted two state lawmakers, in Brooklyn Park, Minn., on Saturday, June 14, 2025. (AP Photo/Tim Sullivan)
An anti-Trump rally in Minneapolis — part of the national wave of “No Kings” protests planned for Saturday — was canceled after police issued a shelter-in-place order because of the shootings.
Flyers for the protests were found in the suspect’s car, as well as a manifesto that named numerous politicians and state officials, police said.
Police are looking for a white man with brown hair, wearing black body armor over a blue shirt and blue pants, local TV station KSTP said.
“We do have the suspect’s car. Suspect is on foot,” said Mark Bruley, the police chief in Brooklyn Park, where Hortman lived.
The United States has been deeply divided since Trump returned to the White House in January.
The Republican president has drawn criticism from Democrats over his harsh deportation policy, his assault on universities and the media, and a perceived flouting of limits on executive power as he pushes his agenda.
Arndrea Waters King, third from left, and Martin Luther King III, fourth from left, march in the “No Kings” protest, Saturday, June 14, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)
“At this precipice moment we’re on, this tragic act here in Minnesota should serve as a reminder to all of us,” Walz said.
“The democracy and the debates in the halls of Congress, in state houses, in school boards, is a way to settle our differences peacefully and move society to a better place.”
Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar remembered Hortman as a friend who entered politics at the same time as her and dedicated her life to serving the state, working on issues such as women’s rights and clean energy.
“Let me be absolutely clear: this was an act of targeted political violence, and it was an attack on everything we stand for as a democracy,” Klobuchar said in a statement. “We must all condemn it.”
Minnesota’s other US senator, Tina Smith, also issued a statement condemning the shootings.
Former House member Gabby Giffords, who survived a shooting to the head in 2011 and is now a prominent advocate for the prevention of gun violence, described herself as “devastated” by the death of Hortman.
“We must protect our democracy from those who try to destroy it with a gun,” Giffords wrote on X.
END
California Retail Theft Rose 11% From 2014 To 2023: Report
Sunday, Jun 15, 2025 – 09:35 PM
California’s soft-on-crime approach, along with pandemic-era actions, may have contributed to a rise in retail theft from 2014 to 2023, according to a report published by the state Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) on June 12.
In the report, “Retail Theft in California: Looking Back at a Decade of Change,” the LAO found that retail theft in the state rose after a slight decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an overall increase of 11 percent during the nine-year timeframe.
“Concerns about theft from retail businesses have become more prominent in recent years,” the analyst’s office wrote in the report. “Retail theft has implications for economic outcomes, as well as a sense of safety, well-being, and fundamental quality of life for Californians.”
In 2021, nearly two in three California voters said crime in the state was getting worse, while 23 percent said it was staying the same and 6 percent said it was getting better, according to a survey conducted that year by David Binder Research.
The report finds that the statistics have fluctuated greatly in the past decade.
From 2014 and 2015, retail theft increased slightly, going up 5 percent before declining 20 percent during 2015 and 2012. Nearly half of the drop happened between 2019 and 2020, when the state was placed on lockdown during the pandemic.
“Pandemic-related factors—such as temporary stay-at-home orders and closure of nonessential retail businesses in the early part of the pandemic—likely contributed to the decline over this period,” the report stated.
After the decline, statistics show that retail crime increased by 32 percent from 2021 and 2023.
The crime numbers may not represent the full picture, however, according to the analysis.
A large portion of law enforcement agencies—representing about 10 percent of the state’s population—did not report crime numbers for some or all of 2023 when reporting methods were changed nationwide during the Biden administration..
“Accordingly, crime data may understate the actual increase in retail theft that occurred in 2023,” the report stated.
Bucking the trend were smaller counties in the state that were reporting declines in retail theft from 2019 to 2023.
Union Square visitors look at damage to a Louis Vuitton store in San Francisco on Nov. 21, 2021. Danielle Echeverria/San Francisco Chronicle via AP
“The reason for these differences is unclear but could be tied to factors such as the concentration of retail establishments in each county,” according to the report.
The analysis pointed to Proposition 47, passed in 2014, and changes in the state’s criminal justice system after 2020 as possible reasons for crime to have risen. The proposition reduced several felonies to misdemeanors, limiting the authority to arrest people for some crimes.
The public has criticized the proposition, claiming the law allowed shoplifters to walk away with up to $950 in goods, mandating law enforcement to issue a ticket to suspected thieves instead of arresting them.
“Researchers found that Proposition 47 increased larceny (a category of crime that includes some forms of retail theft), though they were unable to determine the impact on retail theft specifically,” the analyst’s office, which provides fiscal and policy advice to the state Legislature, stated in the report’s executive summary.
Shoppers browse in a Hollywood mall in Los Angeles on Oct. 26, 2023. Mario Tama/Getty Images
“Generally, research on crime rates suggests that people are less likely to commit a crime when they perceive that they have a higher chance of being apprehended,” according to the report.
The state also changed several crime policies in response to the COVID-19 health crisis, including releasing convicted criminals early from prison, implementing zero-bail policies, and reducing probation term lengths.
“[Researchers] found that pandemic-era changes to the criminal justice system increased nonresidential burglary (a measure of some forms of retail theft) by reducing jail populations and the likelihood of arrest,” according to the LAO. “However, the researchers were only able to explain about one-third of the pandemic-era increase in nonresidential burglaries.”
The findings suggested that factors outside the criminal justice system, such as changes in the retail environment, also likely contributed to retail theft trends in California.
Possible changes to the retail environment may also have affected retail theft rates, the report said. For example, many stores have expanded shelf-checkout lines and store policies that direct staff not to physically confront shoplifters.
A customer uses a self-checkout lane at a Home Depot store in San Rafael, Calif., on July 25, 2023. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Pandemic-era changes, such as the use of protective face masks that could also be used to conceal identities, may have further emboldened shoplifters, according to the analysis.
The report also stated that a change in societal factors, such as homelessness prompting the stealing of necessities like food, and increased drug use disorders, could have impacted retail theft rates.
Voters responded last year to the state’s growing retail theft problem, passing Proposition 36 and various other bills, including Assembly Bill 2943, which made it a crime for anyone to possess stolen property that was acquired through shoplifting, theft, or burglary. The bill also allows prosecutors to aggregate thefts in different counties to charge suspects with more severe crimes.
The changes have bolstered the ability of law enforcement to arrest and detain shoplifters, elevated retail theft from a misdemeanor to a felony in some cases, increased punishment for retail crime, and broadened the capacity to detect and respond to retail crime, the report stated.
“This change could also make it more likely for people to be arrested, given that law enforcement generally has greater authority to arrest people for felonies,” according to the report. “This, in turn, could help deter people from engaging in retail theft if it causes them to perceive a higher likelihood of apprehension.”
State and local law enforcement also implemented several programs to target organized retail crime in the past three years.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signs a package of 10 retail theft bills at a Home Depot in San Jose, Calif., on Aug. 16, 2024. Travis Gillmore/The Epoch Times
In March, Gov. Gavin Newsom reported the state’s Organized Retail Crime Task Force had conducted 879 investigations, leading to 1,707 arrests and the recovery of 676,227 stolen goods valued at $13.5 million.
“As public safety continues to be a priority for California, this ongoing retail theft crackdown shows the continuous work of our strengthened efforts on organized crime,” Newsom said in March.
The analysis recommends that legislators ask several key questions to provide oversight of recently passed laws.
The questions include asking whether officials are using the new crime-fighting tools available to them, and to report whether the new laws are resulting in a decrease in crime.
Overall, the analysis showed that while retail theft has increased in the state, the latest available numbers remain below historical levels.
From 1985 to 2023, the retail theft rate declined by 54 percent. A similar decline was recorded for all types of property crime during that time, including residential burglary and motor vehicle theft.
END
COMMUNIST MAYOR BASS OF LA
LA Mayor Bass Says If ICE Raids Persist, There’ll Be ‘Nobody’ Left To Nanny The Kids Or Mow The Lawns
Everyone probably remembers during Donald Trump’s first presidency when Kelly Osbourne completely jammed her foot in her mouth during a segment on The View when she got a little carried away talking like a tough guy, delivering what she no doubt thought was a zinger: “If you kick every Latino out of this country, then who is going to be cleaning your toilet, Donald Trump?”
9 years ago, Kelly Osbourne failed to make a point against Donald Trump in 'The View' pic.twitter.com/IMGPj4fIlM
It was such a monumental jack** moment, even the other View women gasped and cringed, and Osbourne quickly backpeddled.
That was only the beginning.
Since then, Democrat after Democrat has warned what enforcing immigration law means (but only when Republicans do it), and that is the disappearance of slave labor.
(I swear, if in 50 years the Democrats demand reparations for the illegals who were underpaid and treated like property, the very policies they support now, I’m gonna lose it.)
As we’re all acutely aware, Los Angeles is indistinguishable from a third world riot scene. If you didn’t know better, you’d think you were in Mogadishu in July 1989, or Tripoli in 2011—but nope, it’s just a Golden State city after decades of Democrat control.
And, offering her two cents about the events, mayor Karen Bass says that if the ICE raids persist, there will be “nobody” left to nanny LA’s children or mow the lawns.
Her comments are below, from a report at Fox News:
‘My biggest fear is the impact that all Angelenos will begin to feel when the labor of immigrants is absent,’ Bass said. ‘We’ll feel it in the construction industry. We’ll feel it in hospitality. We’ll feel it at grocery stores. People will begin to notice.’
She continued, ‘You think about the mothers who have nannies and housekeepers. They will feel it when there’s nobody to do childcare and there’s nobody to take their kids to school. You know, you will feel it when your gardener goes away, and you don’t know where he or she is. So Angelenos will feel the absence of immigrant labor.’
There will be “nobody” left to undercut American wages and steal American jobs? Sounds like a win-win to me. Oh the horror that a parent would have to care for their own child, or tend the garden without the help!
But she is right, rooting out illegals would be felt in the job market—because they’re taking a ton of our jobs. One study presented a very, very conservative estimate, that 11% of the workforce in LA is made up of illegal workers. The Las Vegas Sun reports that immigrant labor makes up a whopping 55% of the job market in California—how many of those are illegals?—and then there’s this, from a search engine AI:
In California, around 40% of the construction workforce is composed of immigrants, with about half of them potentially lacking documentation. An estimated 45% of agricultural workers are undocumented.
However… you know who we wouldn’t miss if they didn’t show up for “work”? Government parasites, like Bass. Can we loose ICE on California’s elected officials, so they too stop showing their faces in public?Views expressed in this article are opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ZeroHedge.
VICTOR DAVIS HANSON/
USA NEWS/ANTISEMITISM..
KING NEWS
The King Report June 16, 2025 Issue 7514
Independent View of the News
Sunday reports indicate that the Islamic Regime in Iran is near collapse: Putin offered to broker a ceasefire to save Russia’s long-time evil ally; Israel refused and stated ‘there are still targets that must be eliminated; Putin then ordered all Russians to exit Iran. Putin does NOT want Russian military and intel assets, or documents, to be captured by non-regime Iranians or the IDF. Also, reports had Syria allowing Saudi Arabia, the US, and others to use its airspace to intercept Iranian missiles.
If Iran’s long-time “Axis of Evil” partner has turned on Iran, you know what is expected in Iran!
@DrEliDavidon Sun: Iranians shouting “Death to Khamenei” in Tehranpars neighborhood in Tehran https://t.co/hK9HowsKpl
@DrEliDavid: Basij headquarters in Tehran destroyed. Basij is the “riot police” in charge of cracking down on protests. They have the blood of thousands of Iranians on their hands.
@MahyarTousion Sun: The following bases have been destroyed in Tehran over the last few minutes: Tehran Police HQ; Intelligence Ministry; Iranian Navy HQ; Justice Ministry; Iranian Air Force HQ
Reuters, on Fri.: Israel will pay a heavy price for its attack on Iran which killed Revolutionary Guards top commander Hossein Salami, the Guards said in a statement on Friday, warning of a decisive retaliation against its “sworn enemies”. “The Israeli attack was carried out with full knowledge and support of the wicked rulers in the White House and terrorist U.S. Regime,” the Guards’ statement said.
Iran Supreme Leader Khamenei.ir @khamenei_ir after attack: With this crime, the Zionist regime has prepared for itself a bitter, painful fate, which it will definitely see.
@DrEliDavid: Reports that Israel has conveyed the message that if Iran retaliates, Khamenei will be eliminated. Israeli sources confirm that US was fully coordinated with Israel, and Trump’s public statement calling Israel to not attack was part of the coordinated deception…
If indeed the US was involved in the strikes on Iran, regime change in Iran HAD to be in the plans. This is evinced by the decapitation strikes on Iranian senior officials. On Friday, numerous ‘experts’ opined that Iran regime change is an objective.
@DrEliDavid: First official message from the Israeli government on regime change in Iran – Minister @AmichaiChikli just posted his photo with Iran’s Crown Prince @PahlaviReza, promising “Soon in Tehran”https://x.com/DrEliDavid/status/1933535688651051464
@IsraelRadar_com: Mossad carried out a series of covert operations to sabotage Iran’s missile capabilities & air defenses.via @MaarivOnline
Iran has launched over 100 drones at Israel on early Friday.
Trump had advanced notice of Israel attack, and reportedly told Israel not to do it, per FOX
Reports indicate that Israel ‘tricked’ Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp air force leaders into convening a meeting in a bunker. Then the IDF blew up the bunker and killed them.
On Friday, Lebanon told Hezbollah that it would NOT allow the Iranian proxy to use its soil to stage military attacks. Israel has systemically ‘attritted’ Iranian proxies that have spread terror and have done Iran’s dirty work in the Middle East. Iran is in its weakest state in decades.
Iran Vows to Continue Nuclear Program Despite Attacks – BBG 839 ET Friday
Trump Urges Iran to Make a Nuclear Deal to Avoid More Attacks – BBG 7:24 ET Friday
Ex-DoD intel official @JasonButtrill: After seeing what Israel was capable of doing… in 60 minutes. I mean wow. The future of war is some scary stuff. This is what military analysts expected when Russia first attacked Ukraine… but Russia is clearly not a modern military. Putin is looking at this attack right now and thinking “damn… we screwed that one up big time.”
CBS’s @JenniferJJacobs: Asked by WSJ what effect Israel’s attack could have on the markets, Trump said, “I think ultimately, it would be great for the market because Iran will not have a nuclear weapon. … Iran won’t have a nuclear weapon that was a great threat to humanity.” Trump spoke with Israel’s Netanyahu on Thursday and plans to speak with him again today.
Israel continued to pound Iran nuclear facilities and ballistic missile assets on Friday. Iranian air bases at Mehrabad and Bushehr were struck, as were IRGC bases in Mohammad Shahr and Kraraj. Reports say more top Iranian military leaders were killed. Iranian air defenses were decimated.
The hokey UM Sentiment for June rose to 60.5 from 52.2; 53.6 expected. Current Conditions increased to 63.7 from 58.9; 59.3 expected. Expectations jumped to 58.4 from 47.9, 49.7 was expected. 1-year Inflation dropped to 5.1% from 6.6%; 6.4% was consensus. 5-10-year Inflation fell to 4.1% from 4.2%.
@M_McDonough: Democrats now expecting inflation to rise above 10% (10.1%) over the next 12 months,Republican expectations rising as well but much more subdued (1.5%, Ind 7.5%). https://x.com/M_McDonough/status/1933528010176803329
@zerohedge: Just when you thought UMich couldn’t be bigger goalseeked garbage, it is: Overall 1Yr inflation expectations drop even as Democrat, Republican and Independent inflation expectations all rise! https://x.com/zerohedge/status/1933527909353865477
In early US trading on Friday, gold, oil, and gasoline soared; bonds and stocks sank; and the dollar rallied.
ESMs plunged to a daily low of 5927.50 (-122.00) at 22:43 ET. ESMs then relentlessly stair-stepped higher until they hit 6014.75 one minute after the NYSE opening. The ‘dump’ appeared; ESMs sank to 5977.25 at 10:30 ET. Then, the ingrained retail buying (options and stocks) appeared; ESMs jumped to 6029.25 at 12:17 ET. ESMs then rolled over; they sank after Iran launched 200+ missiles, in three barrages, at Israel. The IDF HQ in Tel Aviv was struck. About a dozen Iranian missiles hit.
The US reportedly participated in Israel’s missile defense. Iran has struck the nuclear facility in Dimona, Israel per reports.
@DrEliDavid: Top Israeli official: Iran will pay a hefty price for targeting population centers
Israel warned that if Iran struck Israeli population centers, it would destroy Iran’s oil refineries.
@TankerTrackers: The keyword here is “refineries“, and they are the secondary tier of oil infrastructure. It’d cause long fuel lines at the gas pumps in Iran but crude oil would still be produced and exported. It’d be completely different if Israel threatened to attack oil terminals & oilfields.
ESMs hit a bottom of 5965.25 at 15:46 ET. The late manipulation and conditioned buying ahead of Fed Week and June Expiration week lifted ESMs to 5987.75 at 16:14 ET.
@DrEliDavid: Iran’s IRGC Quds Force commander Gen. Esmail Qaani is confirmed safe in Israel. It can now be revealed that he was an Israeli asset,..
Positive aspects of previous session It could have been much worse for equities. The dollar rallied moderately.
Negative aspects of previous session Gold, oil, and gasoline soared; stocks declined sharply; and USMs were -27/32 at the NYSE close.
First Hour/Last Hour Action [S&P 500 Index]: 1st Hour from NYSE Open: Down; Last Hour: Down
Pivot Point for S&P 500 Index [above/below indicates daily trend to traders]: 5988.78 Previous session S&P 500 Index High/Low: 6026.16; 5963.21
Whistleblower: Lockheed Martin Awarded Bonuses Based on Race The company allegedly required managers to reward employees “on the basis of their skin color alone and contrary to documented performance.”… One driving force behind Lockheed’s discriminatory policy, according to our source, was La Wanda Moorer, the director of human resources. When the whistleblower asked Moorer, who did not respond to a request for comment, what would happen if the team could not find enough minorities to replace white workers on the bonus list, Moorer responded forcefully. “[T]he preference is for you to get there,” Moorer wrote. “If you are coming back and saying you can’t get there and it’s unnatural than [sic] I think that changes the conversation as a business area what risk are we willing to assume, and should we get into a situation where there is legal activity that takes place then you will be part of that process . . . . We haven’t ever been in a situation where we haven’t gotten there.” https://www.city-journal.org/article/lockheed-martin-civil-rights-law-bonuses-race-merit
@realchrisrufo: Lockheed Martin human resources director La Wanda Moorer, who demanded that managers remove whites from the year-end bonus list and replace them with lower-performing minorities, has deleted her LinkedIn account.
@manniefabian on Saturday: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a video statement: “Very soon, you will see Israeli Air Force jets over the skies of Tehran. We will strike every site and every target of the Ayatollah regime.”
@DrEliDavid: Israel Prime Minister @netanyahuin a message to “the proud people of Iran”: “We are clearing the path for you to achieve your freedom. The nations of Iran and Israel have been true friends since the time of Cyrus the Great. “The time has come for you to stand up for your freedom from an evil and oppressive regime that has never been weaker. This is your opportunity to stand up and let your voices be heard. Woman, life, freedom. Zen, Zendegi, Azadi. “Brave people of Iran, your light will defeat the darkness. I am with you the people of Israel are with you!” https://x.com/DrEliDavid/status/1933615346126139521?t=kDBZD1GuzlPQDT8w41INiw
@GuyAz: @netanyahu “Very soon, you will see Israeli jets over the skies of Tehran. We will strike every site, every target of the Ayatollah regime. What they’ve felt until now is nothing compared to the force they will feel in the coming days.” https://t.co/eOLgTwbS
@DrEliDavid: IRGC announcement: Any IRGC members not showing up for duty will be considered a traitor. This follows reports that many IRGC members have disappeared.
@MacroEdgeRes on Saturday: IDF attacked another Iranian gas field after Bushehr, and national infrastructure is on the list… The Israeli Air Force has targeted multiple oil and fuel depots tonight across the Iranian capital of Tehran, with reports of lines forming at gas stations in and around Tehran Iran says production at world’s gas field partially offline Pakistan says it provided intelligence to Iran on Israeli strikes
Israel’s mission hinges on destroying Iran’s hardest nuclear target Israel will require unforeseen tactical ingenuity or US assistance to destroy Fordow, which is built into a mountain and deep underground. But if the facility remains intact and accessible, the nuclear program could actually accelerate… https://www.axios.com/2025/06/14/iran-nuclear-facilities-fordow-israel-strike
5 or 6 Irani missiles hit Tel Aviv late on Saturday evening.
Trump Chickened Out Again!
Trump Shifts Deportation Focus, Pausing Raids on Farms, Hotels and Eateries – NYT The guidance was sent on Thursday in an email by a senior ICE official, Tatum King…“We acknowledge that by taking this off the table, that we are eliminating a significant # of potential targets,” he wrote. https://archive.ph/rsKrk#selection-899.0-899.123
@WallStreetMav: Illegal aliens are rushing to apply for jobs at hotels, restaurants, meat packing plants and farms. Those industries now get a free pass from ICE deportations.
In an interview with Fox on Sunday, Netanyahu said, ‘We have intelligence that Iran planned to eliminate President Trump.’
@akafaceUS: Iran says they will target US military bases in the coming days.
Trump warns America ‘could get involved’ directly in Israel-Iran conflicthttps://t.co/NZoZX9wAoo
@EliAfriatISR: India supports and will act in favor of Israel if Pakistan intervenes in favor of Iran.
Today – Traders want to play for the Monday, Fed Week, and June Futures and Options Expiration Week Rallies. The major escalation in the Israel-Iran War supercharged energy commodities, which is a huge negative for the global economy. However, the collapse of the Islamic Regime in Iran is an unfathomable positive for the world, excluding China, Russia, Qatar, and Pakistan.
ESMs quickly fell to 6000.00, -31.50 just after the opening on Sunday night. WTI oil hit 77.49, +5.51, on the opening. ESMs jumped to 6038.00 at 18:44 ET; WTI oil fell to 74.29. Oil longs and ESM shorts are now shorting their pants. If ESMs don’t sink, there could be a titanic short squeeze.
Expected Economic Data: June Empire Mfg. -7.0
S&P Index 50-day MA: 5668; 100-day MA: 5773; 150-day MA: 5840; 200-day MA: 5807 DJIA 50-day MA: 41,167; 100-day MA: 42,233; 150-day MA: 42,680; 200-day MA: 42,502 (Green is positive slope; Red is negative slope)
S&P 500 Index (6038.81 close) – BBG trading model Trender and MACD for key time frames Monthly: Trender is positive; MACD is negative – a close below 5807.26 triggers a buy signal Weekly: Trender and MACD are positive – a close below 5315.75 triggers a sell signal Daily: Trender is positive; MACD isnegative– a close below 5916.56 triggers a sell signal Hourly: Trender and MACD are negative – a close above 6041.80 triggers a buy signal
Minnesota gunman sought in deadly shootings of lawmaker, her husband identified as former appointee of Tim Walz: sources – A Minnesota state lawmaker and her husband were killed, and another politician and his wife seriously hurt, in a “politically motivated assassination” after a madman who had “No Kings” flyers and posed as a police officer turned up at their homes overnight and opened fire, authorities said… Just five days before the murders, Hortman faced intense criticism for voting to cut access to state health benefits for illegal immigrants in Minnesota. She was the only Democrat to side with Republicans, providing the GOP with the carrying vote. Walz indicated he intends to sign the measure when it lands on his desk… https://t.co/1oADkNU12q
@nicksortor: It seems ass*ssin Vance Boulter’s wife, Jenny, ALSO worked for Tim Walz. She worked for him in Washington, DC in the early 2010s while he was a Congressman.
Accused Minnesota assassin Vance Boelter has ties to Middle East and Africa, runs security companyhttps://t.co/1OMG10JBxh
@IanJaeger29: Minnesota authorities announce they will not release the (suspected shooter) manifesto
@NQthing2see: Looks like Tim Walz deleted his tweet saying this was politically motivated, because the shooter was appointed by Tim Walz. Anyone have a screenshot?? https://t.co/Lhc0N4gtgc
Walz and other leftists quickly labeled the Minnesota shooting ‘politically motivated’ because the victims were Democrats. Then, ‘they’ learned ‘he’ was a Walz associate with ‘No Kings’ flyers in his car.
@kylenabecker: Here is Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz two weeks ago telling Democrats that they need to “get meaner.” Two Minnesota lawmakers who voted against healthcare funding for illegal aliens were just shot in his state. Is that “mean” enough for the Democratic Party?https://t.co/8ZjPOrZ5Ui
@WallStreetMav: The left has become radicalized by their elected “leaders” and the legacy “news” media. This is going to result in people being killed eventually. But that is what the far-left organizers want. They are trying to create martyrs. To further inflame their side to more violence.
@redsteeze on Saturday: Today is the anniversary of a Bernie Sanders campaign worker shooting up a DC softball field and almost assassinating 9 Congressional Republicans.
@insatiablevine: The left kills the CEO of United Healthcare; Kills two Israeli ambassadors staffers; Attempts twice to assassinate the President; Doxes and attempts to murder federal ICE agents and Police all week; And now kills a MN state rep and her husband and injures a Senator and his wife. The left has become a full-blown domestic terrorist organization. @elonmusk on Sat, Jun 14, 2025: The far left is murderously violent.
@AutismCapital: How much more evidence do Dems need that when you continuously call for violence, rile up violence, make everything ramped to 11 and hysterical, violence happens. In this case a highly likely Dem lunatic shooting two reps who they felt failed their purity test. Stop the violence.
@libsoftiktok: North Carolina State Rep Julie von Haefen (D) posted a photo from the “no kings” protest which calls for Trump to be beheaded @FBIhttps://t.co/ETn7O6e8cu Democrat Rep who shared a picture calling for Trump to be beheaded deleted her account https://x.com/libsoftiktok/status/1934269407896719635
@CollinRugg: Grown adult seen beating a Trump doll to get his anger out at a ‘Theratrumpy’ Trump Induced Anxiety Help stand. The incident was filmed at the Beverly Hills, California ‘No Kings’ protest. “No! No! No! Bad boy. Bad! Bad! Bad!”https://t.co/RJH8jOReQp (More fomenting of violence; more mental illness on public display?)
GOP @RepAndyBiggsAZ: I’m glad Governor Walz agrees that it’s time to tone down the violent rhetoric. Comparing ICE agents to Nazi Germany’s Gestapo and encouraging your party to “bully the s**t” out of your political opponents directly contributes to tragedies like we saw in Minnesota today.
@charliekirk11: Tim Walz has reportedly backed out, but he was slated to headline the Twin Cities No Kings “protest” today. Total shocker that smearing a duly-elected president… as a fascist or a king leads to violent political radicalization.
@bennyjohnson: Facebook swiftly removes the page of Vance Boelter, the reported suspect in the Minnesota shooting. https://t.co/jTkH0r2Zzd
@C_3C_3: Democrats trying to figure out how to blame Trump for a violent Democrat murdering another Democrat for voting against Democrats. https://t.co/fTrOvVyD09
Some Dems and media outlets did blame Trump for the Minnesota shootings!
Accused Minnesota assassin Vance Boelter’s wife detained after traffic stop — cops find passports and weapon in car: reporthttps://trib.al/cG9UEni
Trump officials slam Sen. Alex Padilla’s ‘freak out’ during Noem presser: ‘Complete lunatic’https://trib.al/coCqK5B
@AP: An appeals court temporarily blocked a judge’s (Ex-SCOTUS Justice Breyer’s brother) ruling to return control of National Guard to California on Friday. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said it will hold a hearing on June 17.
@theblaze: Tim Walz on Israel striking Iran: “Who is the voice in the world that can negotiate some type of agreement and hold the moral authority? It might be the Chinese.” (Certifiably deranged, hates US) https://x.com/theblaze/status/1933555764863312384
The more Walz speaks, the more deranged and mindless he appears. Plus, Tampon Tim has a well-established, long history of CCP adulation.
Cuomo campaign aide who worked for companies tied to Chinese Communist Party quits after Post querieshttps://t.co/kJdFkptrNW
@ChicagoContrar1: From a CPD source, we are hearing the crowd at Daley Plaza has shrunk to around 2,500. Seems as if the protesters are getting tired and leaving.
@JCAndersonNYC: Chicago’s anti-Trump protest is run by a guy who has dedicated his life to promoting, defending, and praising terrorist organizations.He’s friends with PFLP bomber Rasmea Odea, and his home was raided by the FBI in 2010. @anjewla90: The “Coalition Against the Trump Agenda” was started by Hatem Abudayyeh and others. He also runs USPCN. They are out in full force today in Chicago…
@ElectionWiz: After seeing hundreds of vids and pics, two things stand out about these “No Kings” marches:1. The crowds are about as diverse as a country club brunch—mostly upper middle class whites. 2. The average age of an attendee probably makes them eligible for an AARP membership. (Paid protestors and over-the-hill hippies. Instead of part-time work at Home Depot or Walmart, old timers are becoming paid protestors.)
@ExxAlerts: Seattle craigslist ad, [that is still currently up,] offering a total of $1,000 for provocateurs to attend antigovernment protests. WHO IS PAYING FOR THE RIOTS? https://x.com/ExxAlerts/status/1934031584715264334
@jason_meister: Imagine throwing a “No Kings” protest after your party refused to hold a primary, coronated Kamala without a single vote, sued to keep RFK Jr. off the ballot, and attempted to remove Trump from state ballots only after your illegal lawfare scheme failed.
CBS News hammered on social media for promoting ‘No Kings Day’ anti-Trump protest merchandisehttps://t.co/pA9mw3NSD9
WH Com Dir @StevenCheung47: The so-called No Kings protests have been a complete and utter failure with minuscule attendance. It is sad Democrats and liberals would rather support criminals and illegals instead of celebrating the 250th anniversary of our great U.S. Army and Flag Day. But many more Americans are commemorating our brave military men and women…
Trump hits back at Tucker Carlson for accusing him of abandoning ‘America First’ by supporting Israel: ‘I decide’https://t.co/AYYQTWQZft (Has Tucker gone virulently anti-Israel?, If so, why?)
The attention-craving (whore) Trump on Sunday: Iran and Israel should make a deal, and will make a deal, just like I got India and Pakistan to make, in that case by using TRADE with the United States… Also, during my first term, Serbia and Kosovo were going at it hot and heavy, as they have for many decades, and this long time conflict was ready to break out into WAR. I stopped it… Another case is Egypt and Ethiopia… There is peace, at least for now, because of my intervention… Likewise, we will have PEACE, soon, between Israel and Iran! Many calls and meetings now taking place. I do a lot, and never get credit for anything, but that’s OK, the PEOPLE understand…
The ‘Great I Am’, da Donald Trump, cannot stand that Israel and Bibi are sucking up the global awe and admiration. So, he posted that above self-homage that reeks with his congenital and hyperbolic boasting.
@avaricum777: It’s funny how it’s always people flying Mexican flags that think the worst possible punishment in the world is being sent back to Mexico.
Precious metals expert and financial writer Bill Holter has warned there is a long list of financial trouble coming to America. There is massive unpayable debt both on and off the books, huge fraud and waste uncovered by DOGE and a Fed that looks like it’s lost control. Holter calls the financial system a “hyper-levered house of cards.” Now, you can put a fast-escalating war between Israel and Iran at the top of the list of things that can go really wrong. Holter says, “Mathematically, there are so many strings on this rug that are being pulled on that we are going to have a financial meltdown. Look at the LA riots going on, and now they are planning riots all over the country . . . If you have strife like this during good times, what’s it going to be like during bad times? Hope is not a plan. Hope is for dopes. It seems to me, from a financial standpoint and a societal standpoint, the West is upside down. It seems this has given the West a reason to escalate the situation and kick the table over. This way, those in power don’t take the blame. They can point the finger and say, hey, it wasn’t our fault, World War III happened.”
All this uncertainty and debt is reflecting on the bond market and the financing of America. Holter says, “Liquidity is getting tight. We are at the point in time where US Treasury auctions are being questioned. We had a good Treasury auction a few days ago, but for the last six to nine months, they have been disastrous. In order for the system to continue, you have to have a seamless pathway for the Treasury to borrow. The brick wall is out there somewhere, and maybe they feel the brick wall is pretty close. . .. Whenever military action has happened in the past, we have always seen a huge bid in the dollar. We have always seen a huge bid in Treasuries. In this instance, the dollar barely moved, Treasuries barely moved as gold is up 1.5 % for the day. So, it’s pretty clear the world is viewing gold as the place to hide or the safe haven.”
Holter points out silver has broken above $36 per ounce and gold near record highs at $3,430 per ounce. Holter contends the math says the gold and silver price is going much higher. Just look at the 8,300 tons of gold that the US claims to hold in places like Fort Knox. Holter explains, “The total debt and commitments of the US is over $200 trillion, but forget about that number. Just use the ‘official’ US debt that is on the books of $37 trillion, and divide it by 262 million ounces of gold or 8,300 tons. Right now, you come up with a number for the price of gold at $135,000 plus per ounce.”
Holter says if America loses a war such as in the Middle East or even “an aircraft carrier gets sunk, you can expect a total meltdown in the paper markets.” That would coincide with an immediate price explosion for physical gold and silver. Pray it does not happen.
There is much more in the 41-minute interview.
Join Greg Hunter of USAWatchdog.com as he goes One-on-One with financial writer and precious metals expert Bill Holter for 6.14.25.
June 3, 2025: We all remember being told that Pfizer’s COVID-19 spike-protein encoded mRNA lipid nanoparticle (LNP) injections;Read full story
harveyorganblog.com 
