Iran warns U.S. over potential military strikes

Iran issued a direct warning on Sunday that it will strike U.S. military assets, commercial shipping, and Israel if the United States launches any military action during the nationwide anti-government protests gripping the country.

The threat was delivered by Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf in a televised address.

Ghalibaf told lawmakers that “in the event of a military attack by the United States, both the occupied territory and centers of the U.S. military and shipping will be our legitimate targets.” His reference to “occupied territory” is understood to mean Israel, which Iran does not recognize and considers occupied Palestinian land.

The remarks, broadcast by Iranian state television, were issued as authorities continue to confront the largest wave of protests in years. Activists reported that the death toll has exceeded 100, with demonstrations spreading across major cities and Iranian police announcing what they described as “large” arrest operations.

The warning reflects Tehran’s effort to deter U.S. action after President Donald Trump said the United States is “ready to help” protesters and has repeatedly threatened to intervene if Iranian forces escalate their response. Trump has also cautioned Iran’s leadership against using force, stating that Washington is monitoring the situation closely.

The protests began earlier this month amid economic distress and public anger over government policies. Videos circulated on social media show crowds confronting security forces, though Iranian state media has released limited information about the scale of demonstrations. Police say arrests include individuals responsible for organizing or coordinating unrest, but the government has not disclosed numbers.

Ghalibaf’s warning is Tehran’s strongest statement since demonstrations began. It underscores Iran’s position that any U.S. military move would trigger a broader confrontation, with American bases and naval assets explicitly placed on the target list. The inclusion of Israel in his remarks reflects long-standing Iranian doctrine framing Israel as a hostile presence aligned with U.S. strategic interests.

Iran and the United States fought indirectly during last June’s 12-day war between Israel and Iran, when U.S. forces struck Iranian nuclear facilities in the final days of the conflict. Tehran has repeatedly warned Washington against re-engaging militarily in the region, framing any such action as interference in Iranian internal affairs.

Inside Iran, government officials continue to describe the protests as foreign-backed and say security forces are acting within the law. Activists and rights groups challenge that position, citing high casualty figures and reports of aggressive police tactics.

Ghalibaf’s remarks appeared designed both for a domestic audience and for foreign governments watching the unrest. By stating publicly that U.S. military and shipping centers will be “legitimate targets,” Tehran signaled that any escalation by Washington would have immediate consequences outside Iran’s borders.