Tensions are rising in Iran as nationwide protests continue, a sweeping internet blackout enters its third day, and warnings of possible US military intervention spark fears of wider conflict. At the heart of the crisis, Tehran has issued stark threats against both the United States and Israel, while demonstrators demand change from the country’s theocracy.
Tehran Issues Harsh Warnings Amid US and Israeli Discussions
Iranian officials have warned that any US strike would trigger direct retaliation. On Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf declared that US military sites and Israel — which Iran considers occupied Palestinian territory — would be “legitimate targets” if America attacks.
Reports from German magazine Der Spiegel indicate that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday about potential American intervention in Iran. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has publicly backed the Iranian protesters, posting on Truth Social: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” Trump was reportedly presented with military strike options over the weekend, though no decision has yet been made. The State Department added a blunt warning: “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.”
Protests Enter Third Week as Death Toll Climbs
Protests in Iran have now passed the two-week mark, with demonstrators taking to the streets of Tehran and Mashhad to challenge the country’s ruling authorities. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 116 people have died, including 37 members of security forces or officials. Activists caution that the real number could be much higher due to the nationwide internet blackout.
Network monitor Netblocks said the communications shutdown has passed 60 hours and called it a direct threat to the safety of Iranian citizens. Human rights groups warn the blackout is often used as a prelude to violent crackdowns. The Centre for Human Rights in Iran recalled that during protests in 2019, a similar internet shutdown preceded the deaths of over 1,000 demonstrators.
Mass Arrests and Intensifying Crackdown
Authorities are continuing a broad crackdown on protesters. 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 that key protest organisers were arrested on Saturday night, promising they would face legal consequences, though he did not provide specifics.
As protests continue, the blackout persists, and international powers signal potential military involvement, Iran faces a precarious moment with both domestic unrest and regional tensions threatening to spiral further.
