Iran’s govt says over 1,000 people killed in war with Israel, warns death toll could rise

He further said that the toll may reach 1,100 as some of the people sustained severe wounds in the attacks by Israel.

Iran, which had initially downplayed the Israeli strikes, is now acknowledging the extent of destruction after the ceasefire came into effect, without disclosing the military losses.

The Washington-based Human Rights Activists group had earlier said that 1,190 people were killed in Iran, including 436 civilians and 435 security force members and wounded 4,475 others.

Iranian president accuses Israel of assassination attempt

In an interview with US podcaster Tucker Carlson, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that Israel made attempts to assassinate him.

“They did try, yes. They acted accordingly, but they failed,” Pezeshkian claimed on being asked if Israel tried to kill him.

“I was in a meeting… but thanks to the intelligence by the spies that they had, they tried to bombard the area in which we were holding that meeting,” he said.

He then said that Iran was open to dialogue with the United States, but trust would be an issue.

“I am of the belief that we could very much easily resolve our differences and conflicts with the United States through dialogue and talks,” the Iranian president told Carlson.

He also urged US President Donald Trump to not be drawn into a war against Iran by Israel.

“The United States’ president, Mr. Trump, he is capable enough to guide the region towards the peace and a brighter future and put Israel in its place. Or get into a pit, an endless pit, or a swamp,” Pezeshkian said. “So it is up to the United States president to choose which path.”

(With inputs from agencies)