Iran is facing a deepening crisis as protests enter their third week, nationwide communications remain cut, and tensions with the United States and Israel escalate. Reports suggest Washington and Tel Aviv have discussed the possibility of intervention, while Tehran warns of direct retaliation.
Tehran Issues Stark Warnings
Iranian officials have made it clear that any US strike would not go unanswered. On Sunday, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said that both US military bases and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” in the event of American military action. Iran does not recognise Israel, referring 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 potential US intervention. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has publicly reaffirmed support for Iranian protesters. On Truth Social, he wrote: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” The State Department also issued a warning: “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.” Reports from The New York Times and Wall Street Journal indicate Trump was presented with military options Saturday night but has not made a final decision.
Protests Intensify as Internet Blackout Continues
Across Iran, protests have continued for more than two weeks, with demonstrators taking to the streets in Tehran and Mashhad to challenge the ruling theocracy. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reports that at least 116 people have died, including 37 security personnel or officials. Activists warn the number could be higher due to a nationwide internet blackout, now in its third day.
Network monitoring group Netblocks said the blackout has passed 60 hours and described it as a direct threat to public safety. Human rights organisations warn the shutdown could be a precursor to a violent crackdown, pointing to similar events in 2019 when internet restrictions preceded the deaths of more than 1,000 protesters. The Centre for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) called the blackout “extremely alarming” and warned of a potential massacre.
Mass Arrests Add to Mounting Fear
Authorities have continued their crackdown, detaining at least 2,600 people according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency. Iran’s national police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, confirmed that key protest leaders were arrested Saturday night, promising they will face punishment following legal procedures, though he did not provide further details.
With ongoing nationwide unrest, rising fatalities, and escalating international tensions, Iran faces a critical moment that could have far-reaching consequences for its people and the region.
