Iran is facing a rapidly worsening situation as nationwide protests enter their third week, the death toll climbs, and the government maintains a near-total internet blackout. At the same time, reports indicate that the United States and Israel are discussing possible intervention, prompting stern warnings from Tehran.
Tehran Issues Stark Warnings to US and Israel
Iranian leaders have made it clear that any US strike would trigger a strong response. Speaking in parliament on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said that US military bases, shipping centres, and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” in the event of an American attack. Iran does not recognise Israel and refers to it as occupied Palestinian territory.
Reports from German magazine Der Spiegel indicate that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed potential US intervention in a phone call on Saturday. President Donald Trump has reiterated US support for Iranian protesters, posting on Truth Social: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” Trump has also reportedly been presented with military strike options, though no decision has yet been made. The State Department issued a warning: “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.”
Protests Persist as Death Toll Climbs
Demonstrations across Iran have now lasted more than two weeks. Crowds have gathered in Tehran and Mashhad, the country’s second-largest city, openly challenging the ruling theocracy. 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 real number could be significantly higher due to the ongoing nationwide internet blackout, which limits the flow of information.
Network monitor Netblocks confirmed that the blackout has now lasted more than 60 hours and called it a serious threat to Iranians’ safety and wellbeing. Human rights groups warn the shutdown is often a precursor to mass violence against protesters. The Centre for Human Rights in Iran noted that during protests in 2019, a similar internet blackout was followed by the killing of over 1,000 demonstrators.
Crackdown Intensifies With Mass Arrests
Authorities are also stepping up detentions. At least 2,600 people have been arrested, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency. Iran’s national police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, confirmed that key protest organisers were detained on Saturday night and said they would face punishment after legal proceedings, without providing further details.
With rising casualties, limited communications, and escalating threats between Iran, the US, and Israel, the country is facing a volatile and dangerous moment — one that could have serious consequences both domestically and across the region.
