Iran is facing one of its most serious crises in years as nationwide protests continue, the death toll rises, and the government enforces a sweeping internet blackout. At the same time, reports indicate Washington and Tel Aviv have discussed potential US military intervention, prompting stern warnings from Tehran.
Tehran Issues Stern Warnings to US and Israel
Iranian leaders have made it clear that any US strike would trigger direct retaliation. Speaking in parliament on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said US military bases, shipping centres, and Israel would be “legitimate targets” in the event of an attack. Tehran does not recognise Israel and refers to it as occupied Palestinian territory.
According to German magazine Der Spiegel, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday about possible American intervention in Iran. President Donald Trump has publicly expressed support for 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 on Saturday night, though no final decision has been made. The State Department reinforced his warning, saying: “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.”
Protests Escalate as Internet Blackout Continues
Demonstrations have now entered their third week, with crowds taking to the streets of Tehran and Mashhad, Iran’s second-largest city, to challenge the theocratic regime. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 116 people have died, including 37 members of security forces. Activists warn the true number could be much higher due to the ongoing nationwide internet blackout, which has severely limited reporting from inside the country.
Network monitor Netblocks confirmed the blackout has passed 60 hours and described it as “a direct threat to the safety and wellbeing of Iranians at a key moment for the country’s future.” Human rights groups warn the shutdown is a potential prelude to violent repression, noting that a similar blackout in 2019 was followed by the killing of over 1,000 protesters.
Arrests Surge as Authorities Crack Down
Alongside the rising death toll, arrests have surged. 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 figures were arrested on Saturday night, saying they would face punishment after legal proceedings, though he provided no additional details.
With nationwide unrest, escalating casualties, and growing threats between Iran, the US, and Israel, the situation remains extremely volatile — raising concerns of both a domestic humanitarian crisis and a broader regional conflict.
