Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, declaring that any American military action would trigger immediate retaliatory strikes against Israeli territory and US military installations throughout the Middle East. The warning came from Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, a former Revolutionary Guards commander, during a parliamentary address on Sunday.
The escalating tensions occur against the backdrop of widespread civil unrest in Iran that began on December 28th, initially sparked by economic grievances but rapidly evolving into political demonstrations challenging the clerical establishment. According to human rights organization HRANA, the death toll has reached 116 casualties, including both protesters and security personnel.
Israeli security forces have been placed on high alert amid concerns about potential US intervention in support of the Iranian protest movement. Three security sources confirmed heightened preparedness, though specific operational details remain classified. The Israeli government has maintained official silence regarding the situation.
The current crisis follows recent military confrontations between the nations, including a 12-day conflict in June that saw joint US-Israeli airstrikes against Iranian targets, followed by Iranian missile attacks on American bases in Qatar.
Information flow from Iran remains severely restricted due to government-imposed internet blackouts implemented since Thursday. Meanwhile, social media evidence indicates continued protests, including verified footage showing substantial nighttime gatherings in Tehran’s Punak neighborhood.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed willingness to support the protest movement, stating on social media that ‘the USA stands ready to help.’ This rhetoric coincides with confirmed discussions between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding potential intervention scenarios.
A senior US intelligence official characterized the situation as an ‘endurance game,’ with both opposition forces and government authorities attempting to outlast each other while avoiding actions that might justify foreign military involvement.