Trump has called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” as the Israel-Iran conflict escalates into its sixth day.

At the same time, he hinted on the possibility of sending diplomatic envoys, including Vice President J.D. Vance, to speak with Iranian officials, raising questions about US role in this conflict and what it aims to achieve.

Meanwhile, Iran is facing its most serious internal security breach since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, losing key military figures, fending off cyberattacks, and watching its regional influence unravel as allies weaken across the region.

On The Big Story, Hongbin Jeong speaks to Dr Leon Goldsmith, Senior Lecturer in Middle East Politics, University of Otago, to unpack the latest updates on the Israel-Iran conflict.