Tensions are escalating in Iran as nationwide protests enter their third week, an internet blackout stretches beyond 60 hours, and reports surface that the US and Israel are discussing possible military action. Meanwhile, Tehran has warned that any American strike would make US forces and Israel “legitimate targets,” heightening fears of a regional conflict.
Tehran Issues Stark Warnings Amid US and Israeli Talks
Iranian officials are sending a clear message: any foreign attack will be met with retaliation. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Sunday that US military bases, shipping centres, and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” if Washington launches an attack. Iran does not recognize Israel, calling it occupied Palestinian territory.
According to German magazine Der Spiegel, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by phone on Saturday about possible intervention in Iran. President Donald Trump has reiterated US support for Iranian protesters, posting on Truth Social: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” Reports from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal say Trump was presented with military strike options on Saturday night, though no final decision has been made. The State Department reinforced his stance, warning: “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.”
Protests Intensify as Death Toll Rises
Across Iran, demonstrations have now lasted over two weeks. Crowds took to the streets in Tehran and Mashhad, the country’s second-largest city, continuing to challenge the ruling theocracy.
The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reports at least 116 people have died in connection with the unrest, including 37 members of security forces or officials. Activists caution the actual number could be much higher, as the country remains largely cut off due to the ongoing internet blackout. Network monitoring group Netblocks confirmed that the shutdown has now passed 60 hours, calling it a serious threat to public safety. Human rights groups warn that such blackouts have historically preceded violent crackdowns; the Centre for Human Rights in Iran noted that a similar shutdown in 2019 was followed by the deaths of over 1,000 protesters.
Mass Arrests Signal Government Crackdown
Authorities are intensifying their crackdown on the protests. At least 2,600 people have reportedly been detained, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency. Iran’s national police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, confirmed arrests of key protest organisers on Saturday night, promising they will face punishment after legal proceedings, though he did not provide details on identities or numbers.
With communications cut, rising fatalities, and warnings from both Tehran and Washington, the situation in Iran remains volatile. The combination of domestic unrest and potential foreign intervention raises the stakes for both the region and the world.
