Tensions are escalating in Iran as nationwide protests continue, a crippling internet blackout stretches into its third day, and Tehran warns of retaliation against the United States and Israel amid talks of possible US intervention. The crisis has now claimed at least 116 lives, highlighting the deepening unrest and the dangerous international stakes.
Warnings from Tehran as Washington and Tel Aviv Discuss Action
Iranian officials have issued stark warnings in response to reports that the US and Israel are considering military options. Speaking in parliament on Sunday, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said US forces and Israel would be “legitimate targets” if America strikes Iran. Tehran refers to Israel as occupied Palestinian territory, which it does not recognize.
According to German magazine Der Spiegel, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the possibility of US intervention in a phone call on Saturday. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump reiterated his support for Iranian protesters, posting on Truth Social: “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!”
The State Department reinforced Trump’s message with a warning: “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.” Reports from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal indicate Trump was presented with military strike options Saturday night, though no final decision has been made.
Protests Grow as Internet Blackout Enters Third Day
On the ground, Iranians continue to protest despite heavy government crackdowns. Demonstrations have spread in Tehran, Mashhad, and other major cities, challenging the ruling theocracy and demanding change. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 116 people have died, including 37 members of security forces, though the real toll may be higher due to restricted communication.
A nationwide internet blackout, now past 60 hours, is severely limiting information. Netblocks, a network monitoring group, warned that the censorship “presents a direct threat to the safety and wellbeing of Iranians at a key moment for the country’s future.” Human rights organizations caution that the shutdown could signal an impending intensification of violence against protesters. The Centre for Human Rights in Iran pointed to 2019, when a similar blackout preceded the deaths of over 1,000 demonstrators.
Arrests Mount Amid Fears of Mass Crackdown
Authorities have been detaining thousands of people in connection with the protests. Activists report that at least 2,600 individuals have been arrested. Iran’s national police chief, Ahmad-Reza Radan, confirmed that key figures behind the demonstrations were detained Saturday night and promised legal consequences, without providing further details.
With mounting casualties, communications silenced, and threats of foreign intervention looming, Iran faces a volatile and dangerous period — one that could have serious consequences both domestically and internationally.
