Iran warns against potential US involvement as protesters defy brutal crackdown

Amid one of the most intense waves of unrest in years, Iran’s leadership has publicly cautioned the United States against intervening in the country’s internal crisis, issuing threats that U.S. forces and Israeli interests would be considered legitimate targets if Washington strikes Tehran over its actions against protesters.

The protests, which began in late December over economic hardships including soaring inflation and the collapse of the national currency, have rapidly evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations spanning more than 100 cities and towns nationwide. Despite a nationwide internet blackout and a heavy security presence, crowds have continued to gather to demand political change and relief from economic misery.

Human rights groups estimate that hundreds of people have been killed and thousands more arrested as security forces have used live ammunition, tear gas and mass detentions to suppress the unrest. Verifying exact figures inside Iran has been made difficult by the communication blackout, but reports suggest the death toll could be well over 500.

The escalation to the international stage stems from U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated statements that Washington is “ready to help” and has been briefed on possible military and other options in response to the crackdown on demonstrators—a stance that Tehran has denounced as interference in its sovereign affairs.

In response, Iran’s parliament speaker warned that U.S. and Israeli military assets in the region would be considered “legitimate targets” if the United States attacks Iran, underlining Tehran’s readiness to retaliate against what it frames as external provocations.

Meanwhile, neighboring Israel has gone on high alert amid concerns over possible U.S. involvement or regional spillover, further underscoring how Iran’s domestic crisis could have broader geopolitical repercussions across the Middle East.

The situation remains dynamic, with international calls for restraint from figures such as the U.N. Secretary-General and continued uncertainty over whether diplomatic or military measures will be pursued.