Iran Warns US and Israel Amid Deadly Protests; Region on High Alert
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Teheran
- Jan 11, 2026
- 557
Iran has been gripped by violent protests for the past 15 days, resulting in at least 538 deaths and more than 10,600 detentions, according to sources cited by the Associated Press. The fatalities reportedly include 490 protesters and 48 members of the security forces.
Amid the unrest, Iran has issued a stern warning to the United States, saying any military action would trigger retaliation against US forces and Israel. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said during a live parliamentary session that all US military bases, naval assets, and Israel in the region would be targeted if Iran were attacked. The statement came as lawmakers chanted “Death to America” inside parliament.
Qalibaf praised Iran’s security agencies for what he described as firm action under difficult circumstances and warned that detained protesters would face the harshest punishment.
Meanwhile, US officials have reportedly briefed President Donald Trump on possible military strike options against Iran. According to The New York Times, Trump is seriously considering military action if Iran intensifies its crackdown on protesters, though no final decision has been made.
On Saturday, Trump wrote on social media, “Iran is looking forward to freedom like never before. The United States stands ready to help.” In response, Qalibaf reiterated on Sunday that Iran would respond forcefully to any attack by the US or Israel.
Iranian President Masoud Pazashkian accused the United States and Israel of attempting to destabilize the country by inciting unrest. In an interview broadcast on state television, he urged citizens to distance themselves from what he termed “rioters and terrorists.”
“The government will listen to the protesters, but not to those who seek to destroy society,” Pazashkian said. He added that while authorities are committed to addressing public grievances, they will not tolerate violence and chaos.
Israel on High Alert
Israel has reportedly been placed on high alert amid fears of potential US military action against Iran. Reuters, citing Israeli sources, said security agencies are closely monitoring developments.
Israel and Iran previously fought a 12-day conflict in June, during which the United States conducted airstrikes in coordination with Israeli forces. On Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke by phone with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. While a US official confirmed the call, details of the discussion were not disclosed.
Iran’s warning marks the first time its leadership has explicitly threatened Israel alongside the United States in the context of a possible military retaliation.