Iran Threatens U.S. and Israel Amid Rising Protest Death Toll

Nationwide protests in Iran are escalating, with the death toll now reaching at least 116 people and more than 2,600 others detained, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. The demonstrations, which began on December 28, 2023, have spread through the capital, Tehran, and the country’s second-largest city, Mashhad. Activists report that the Iranian government has cut internet access and disrupted phone lines, complicating the ability to monitor events from abroad.

As tensions rise, Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Qalibaf, issued a stark warning, stating that U.S. military personnel and Israel would become “legitimate targets” if the United States proceeds with military action against Iran. This threat follows comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated a willingness to strike Iran in response to the protests. Trump expressed support for the demonstrators on social media, stating, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!”

Iran’s parliament erupted in chants of “Death to America!” during Qalibaf’s speech, as he commended the Iranian security forces, including the Revolutionary Guard and the Basij, for their actions against the protests. He emphasized that the government intends to respond severely to those involved in the demonstrations, declaring, “The people of Iran should know that we will deal with them in the most severe way and punish those who are arrested.”

International Concerns and Military Implications

The U.S. military has stated that it is prepared to defend its forces and interests in the region, with capabilities that span the full range of combat operations. As the situation develops, there are concerns that the Iranian government may escalate its military posture. Qalibaf notably mentioned that both “the occupied territory” and all U.S. military bases in the region would be targets in the event of an attack.

Despite the Iranian government’s threats, whether Iran is genuinely considering a military response remains uncertain. Analysts point to the damage sustained by Iranian air defenses during previous conflicts, particularly a brief war with Israel in June. Ultimately, any decision to engage in military action would depend on the final say of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Online videos purportedly from protests show demonstrators in Tehran’s Punak neighborhood, where they lit their mobile phones and chanted against the government. In Mashhad, footage displayed clashes with security forces as protesters confronted authorities amid burning debris blocking the streets.

Government Crackdown and Continued Protests

In light of the escalating situation, the Iranian government has tightened its grip on information, cutting off internet access and international communications. Despite this, some media, including Qatar’s Al Jazeera, have managed to report live from within Iran. Iranian state television attempted to counteract the protests by broadcasting segments showcasing calm areas in various cities, avoiding scenes of unrest.

Iran’s attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, warned that participants in the protests could be charged with being an “enemy of God,” a serious accusation that carries the potential for the death penalty. He also indicated that anyone providing assistance to the demonstrators could face similar repercussions.

As protests continue, Iran’s exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has called for further demonstrations, urging citizens to reclaim public spaces and display national symbols. While some protesters have voiced support for the former regime, the motivations behind these sentiments are complex and multifaceted.

The protests initially sparked due to economic grievances, particularly the collapse of the Iranian rial, which now trades at over 1.4 million to $1. As calls for reform grew louder, the demonstrations have transformed into broader challenges to the Iranian theocracy itself. With the potential for escalating violence and international repercussions, the global community remains watchful as events unfold.