On Sunday, Tehran issued a stern warning to the United States, indicating that it would retaliate against Israel and American military bases should the US decide to strike Iran. This statement came amid reports from Israeli sources that the country was on high alert in anticipation of possible US involvement.
The backdrop to this warning includes significant anti-government protests in Iran, the largest since 2022, which have drawn the attention of US President Donald Trump. In recent days, Trump has threatened intervention, cautioning Iranian authorities against using force against demonstrators. He expressed the readiness of the US to assist those seeking change in Iran.
During a session in parliament, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf cautioned the US against making a "miscalculation." He articulated that any attack on Iran would result in legitimate targets being identified as both Israeli territories and all US military installations and vessels in the region. Qalibaf, who has a background as a commander in Iran's Revolutionary Guards, emphasized the seriousness of the situation.
In Israel, security consultations over the weekend led to heightened alertness, although specific details regarding the implications of this alert status were not disclosed. An Israeli government spokesperson refrained from commenting, and the military did not respond to inquiries.
The ongoing protests in Iran, which began on December 28 in response to rising inflation, have evolved into a broader political movement calling for an end to clerical rule. Iranian authorities have accused the US and Israel of inciting unrest. The flow of information from the country has been restricted due to an internet blackout imposed by the government since Thursday.
According to HRANA, a US-based rights organization, the death toll from the protests has reached 116, including both demonstrators and members of the security forces. Iranian state television has shown funeral processions for security personnel killed during the unrest in cities such as Gachsaran and Yasuj. Social media footage has also captured large gatherings in Tehran, where protesters expressed their dissent through rhythmic drumming.
In a recent social media post, Trump remarked on the situation in Iran, suggesting that the country is on the brink of significant change and reiterating the US's readiness to assist. Meanwhile, a conversation between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday touched upon the potential for US intervention, although the specifics of their discussion remain undisclosed.
A senior US intelligence official characterized the situation in Iran as an "endurance game," with opposition forces striving to maintain pressure on the government while authorities attempt to instill fear to suppress protests without providing justification for US intervention. Despite the rising tensions, Israel has not indicated a desire to intervene directly, focusing instead on concerns regarding Iran's nuclear and missile programs. In a recent interview, Netanyahu warned of severe consequences for Iran should it attack Israel, while also suggesting that developments within Iran should be closely monitored.
2026-01-12
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