Iran has warned that the United States and Israel could become “legitimate targets” if President Donald Trump orders a military strike on the Islamic Republic, escalating fears of a wider regional conflict as protests intensify nationwide.
Demonstrations challenging Iran’s ruling theocracy have entered their second week, with large crowds reported in Tehran and the country’s second-largest city. Activist groups say at least 116 people have been killed, while around 2,600 protesters have been detained, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.
Iran has imposed a near-total internet blackout, cutting phone lines and limiting access to information, raising concerns abroad that security forces could carry out a harsher crackdown away from international scrutiny.
Speaking during a live-broadcast parliamentary session, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf warned that U.S. forces and Israel would be legitimate military targets if Washington attacks Iran. His remarks were met with chants of “Death to America!” from lawmakers.
President Trump has repeatedly warned Tehran that the U.S. is prepared to act if protesters continue to be killed. Posting on social media, Trump said: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!”
Both The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump has been briefed on potential military strike options but has not made a final decision.
The U.S. State Department reinforced the warning, saying: “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.”
Meanwhile, Iranian state television showed Qalibaf praising police and the Revolutionary Guard’s Basij militia for suppressing the unrest.
