Iran Warns US and Israel of Possible Strikes

Iranian authorities have announced that any intervention by the United States in the ongoing protests within the country could lead to retaliatory actions. Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian parliament, stated that in the event of an attack on Iran, Israel, as well as all American military bases and ships in the Middle East, would be considered legitimate targets of the Iranian armed forces.

According to The Wall Street Journal, former US President Donald Trump has been briefed by his advisors on potential options for actions against Iran. These options include military strikes, the use of covert cyber measures, expanded sanctions, and support for anti-government forces in Iran. Trump has previously made public statements indicating his willingness to assist the Iranian people.

At the same time, Iranian authorities have called on citizens to participate in rallies on January 12 to support the Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and to condemn what they describe as “terrorist actions in Iran led by the US and Israel.”

According to the US-based HRANA human rights organization, at least 490 protesters and 48 security force representatives have died during the ongoing protests in Iran, and more than 10,600 people have been arrested. The organization presents these figures as preliminary estimates.