Iran faces a rapidly escalating crisis as nationwide protests enter their third week, a sweeping internet blackout passes 60 hours, and Tehran issues warnings of retaliation amid reports the US and Israel are discussing possible intervention. The country’s death toll from demonstrations has risen to at least 116 people, highlighting the growing human cost of unrest.
Tehran Issues Stark Warnings as US and Israel Consider Options
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned on Sunday that US troops and Israel would be “legitimate targets” if the United States attacks Iran. “In the event of a military attack by the United States, both the occupied territory (Israel) and centres of the US military and shipping will be our legitimate targets,” he said. 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 spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday about potential US action in Iran. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump reiterated his support for Iranian protesters on Truth Social, saying: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” US media reports suggest Trump was presented with military options on Saturday night, though no final decision has been made.
Protests Spread as Death Toll Climbs
Demonstrations have continued across Iran, including in Tehran and Mashhad, the country’s second-largest city, with citizens challenging the theocratic government. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 116 people have died, including 37 members of security forces, though activists warn the true toll may be much higher due to the ongoing internet blackout.
Network monitoring group Netblocks said the blackout has surpassed 60 hours, describing it as a serious threat to Iranians’ safety. Human rights organisations warn that such shutdowns have historically preceded large-scale crackdowns. The Centre for Human Rights in Iran noted that during 2019 protests, a similar blackout was followed by the deaths of over 1,000 demonstrators.
Crackdowns and Arrests Intensify
Authorities have also launched widespread arrests. The Human Rights Activists News Agency reports at least 2,600 people have been detained so far. Iran’s national police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, confirmed on Sunday that key protest organisers were arrested on Saturday night, promising punishment following legal proceedings without disclosing details.
With communication channels cut, foreign powers signaling possible military involvement, and the death toll rising, Iran faces an intensifying crisis that threatens not only internal stability but also regional security.
