Death Toll Rises to 555 Following U.S.-Israeli Strikes in Iran

The Iranian Red Crescent has reported that the death toll from the military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel in Iran has climbed to at least 555 individuals.

The humanitarian organization noted that the airstrikes have impacted a broad region, with reports indicating bombardments across 131 different cities throughout the country, as highlighted by The Telegraph.

Emergency response teams are actively engaged across various provinces, conducting ongoing operations for rescue and medical assistance.

In a statement, the Red Crescent indicated, "In the recent days of enemy attacks, 131 cities have been implicated in this crisis," emphasizing that relief efforts are being carried out continuously.

The organization further stated, "We have lost 555 compatriots, and our teams are working tirelessly in rescue, relief, and medical service operations."

Additionally, it was mentioned that more than 100,000 rescue and relief personnel have been put on high alert to address the escalating humanitarian situation.

This rising number of casualties comes amidst efforts by Iran’s interim government to strengthen its control following the death of the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, due to the earlier joint assaults by U.S. and Israeli forces.

The makeshift leadership council of Iran convened its second meeting on Sunday, where President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated the administration’s commitment to uphold the policies of the deceased leader.

"The temporary leadership council has begun its work today and intends, with divine assistance, to continue along the path laid out by the late Imam and the beloved martyred leader, as well as for all truth-seekers worldwide," Pezeshkian stated in a recorded address post-meeting.

During his address, the president issued a serious warning to both Washington and Tel Aviv, asserting that the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader would not diminish the nation's strength.

"The United States and the Israeli regime should understand that the martyrdom of the supreme leader of the Islamic Revolution will lead to their only disgrace," he declared.

Pezeshkian also called for national unity, urging citizens to publicly express solidarity during what he characterized as a period of mourning and resistance for the nation.

"Today, our nation mourns the loss of this remarkable martyr. We all must confront the adversaries' malicious schemes with compassion and unity, whether in mosques or in the streets," he emphasized.

He concluded his statement by affirming that Iran's military forces remain on standby for any future confrontations, asserting, "The armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are prepared and shall continue to be ready to dismantle enemy bases and thwart their plans, as they always have."