Iran has issued a stark warning that the United States military and Israel would become "legitimate targets" if America launches an attack on the Islamic Republic, raising fears of a potential global conflict. The threat comes as nationwide protests challenging Iran's theocracy surge into their second week, with activists reporting at least 116 deaths and 2,600 detentions.
Parliamentary Threats and International Tensions
In a live broadcast of Iran's parliament session, speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf delivered a direct threat. He stated that both Israel, referred to as "the occupied territory," and all American military centres, bases, and ships in the region would be targeted if the US strikes Iran. Qalibaf emphasised that Iran would not wait to react, hinting at a potential pre-emptive strike based on "any objective signs of a threat."
The warning was made amidst chants of "Death to America!" from lawmakers and follows repeated threats from former US President Donald Trump, who has expressed support for the protesters. Trump stated on social media that "Iran is looking at FREEDOM" and that the "USA stands ready to help." US officials confirmed Trump had been presented with military options for a strike, though no final decision has been made.
Protests and a Brutal Crackdown
The unrest, which began on 28 December amid a collapsing economy, has evolved into a direct challenge to Iran's religious leadership. Protests have filled the streets of Tehran and Mashhad, the country's second-largest city. With internet access and international phone lines severed, information is scarce, but footage smuggled out via Starlink technology shows protesters waving illuminated phones and setting off fireworks.
Iran's regime has intensified its response. The attorney general declared that protest participants would be branded an "enemy of God," a charge punishable by death, and even those who "helped rioters" could face the same fate. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has signalled an imminent crackdown, disregarding American warnings.
Regional Military Posture and Historical Context
The US military maintains it has forces across the Middle East "postured with forces that span the full range of combat capability." American troops in Qatar were attacked by Iran last June. Any Iranian decision to engage in warfare would ultimately rest with the 86-year-old Supreme Leader.
Analysts question Iran's capacity to launch an attack, especially after witnessing the destruction of its air defences during a 12-day war with Israel in June. Meanwhile, exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has urged more demonstrations, encouraging the use of Iran's historic lion-and-sun flag, a symbol from the pre-1979 shah era.
