Iran Threatens US, Israel With Retaliation as Protests Rage, Death Toll Hits 116
Iran has warned that US forces and Israel would become “legitimate targets” if Washington carries out military action against the Islamic Republic, as nationwide protests continue to shake the country.
The warning was issued on Sunday during a live-broadcast parliamentary session, where Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran would not wait to be attacked before responding to perceived threats. He said any strike on Iran would prompt retaliation against US military bases, ships and assets across the region, as well as Israel.
Ghalibaf praised security forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and its Basij paramilitary wing, for suppressing demonstrations that have persisted for more than two weeks. He also vowed harsh punishment for protesters, saying authorities would deal with detainees “in the most severe way.”
The parliamentary session was marked by lawmakers chanting anti-American slogans, underscoring heightened tensions as US President Donald Trump has publicly threatened action against Tehran.
The developments came as reports emerged that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday, with discussions believed to have covered Iran’s protests alongside regional issues such as Gaza and Syria. Officials confirmed the call but gave no details.
Meanwhile, anti-government demonstrations have continued across several Iranian cities despite an ongoing internet blackout that has now exceeded 60 hours, according to internet monitoring group NetBlocks. The group warned that the shutdown posed serious risks to public safety and access to information.
Iranian human rights organisation HRANA said at least 116 people have been killed in connection with the protests so far. Demonstrations have been reported in Tehran, Mashhad and Kerman, with videos circulating online—some believed to have been transmitted via satellite internet—showing scattered gatherings, road blockades and confrontations with security forces.
Authorities have stepped up pressure, with Iran’s attorney general warning that protesters could be charged as “enemies of God,” an offence that carries the death penalty. State media has played down unrest, broadcasting images of calm streets and pro-government rallies in select cities.
The protests began late December after the Iranian rial plunged to record lows amid economic strain and sanctions, before evolving into broader calls challenging the country’s clerical leadership.
