Iran has issued a caution that if President Donald Trump carries out his earlier threats and attacks the Islamic Republic, the US and Israel could be considered “legitimate targets,” raising concerns of potential global conflict.
Amid nationwide protests challenging Iran’s theocracy, demonstrators have flooded the streets of the capital and the country’s second-largest city for the second consecutive week, resulting in at least 116 deaths, as reported by activists.
Internet access in Iran has been blocked, and phone lines have been cut, making it difficult to assess the situation from abroad. Despite this, reports indicate a rising death toll, with around 2,600 individuals detained, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.
Iran’s parliament speaker has issued a warning that the US military and Israel would be deemed “legitimate targets” if the US launches an attack on Iran, echoing President Trump’s threats. The warning was delivered by Qalibaf amidst anti-American sentiments expressed by lawmakers in the Iranian parliament.
There are concerns that the information blackout could embolden Iran’s security hard-liners to crack down on protesters, despite Trump’s assurances to intervene to protect peaceful demonstrators.
Expressing support for the protesters on social media, Trump emphasized that Iran is yearning for freedom like never before, with the USA ready to assist. Reports suggest that Trump has been presented with military options for a strike on Iran, though a final decision is pending, as per anonymous US officials cited by The New York Times and Wall Street Journal.
The State Department has issued a stern warning, emphasizing the seriousness of Trump’s intentions when he makes a statement.
Iranian state television aired a live parliament session where Qalibaf commended the police and Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard for their resilience during the protests, vowing harsh consequences for those arrested.
Qalibaf also issued a direct threat towards Israel and the US military, hinting at a potential preemptive strike, warning that both would be considered legitimate targets in the event of an attack on Iran.
Despite the threats, it remains uncertain if Iran is genuinely considering launching an attack, especially following past conflicts and the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s final decision-making authority.
The US military has confirmed its readiness across the Middle East to defend its interests and allies from potential threats.
Recent footage from Iran showed protesters assembling in various districts, engaging in peaceful demonstrations and clashes with security forces in cities like Mashhad and Kerman.
As tensions escalate, Khamenei has disregarded American warnings and hinted at an imminent crackdown on protesters, with severe consequences for those involved.
The ongoing unrest in Iran, triggered by economic challenges and dissatisfaction with the current leadership, has evolved into direct challenges against the country’s religious establishment.