Protests opposing Iran’s ruling system have persisted across the country for more than two weeks, with fresh demonstrations reported in Tehran and other major cities despite a heavy security presence. Human rights groups say at least 116 people have died in violence linked to the unrest, while over 2,600 people have been detained.
Assessing the scale of the demonstrations has become increasingly difficult as authorities have imposed widespread internet shutdowns and cut phone services across the country. However, activists outside Iran report a steady rise in casualties and arrests.
Amid the unrest, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf issued a sharp warning on Sunday, saying the United States military and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” if Washington launches a strike on Iran. His remarks mark the first time a senior Iranian official has explicitly named Israel in such a threat.
Qalibaf made the statement during a tense session of parliament, where lawmakers gathered to discuss the ongoing protests. At one point, several members rushed toward the dais, chanting slogans including “Death to America,” reflecting the hard-line stance dominating the assembly.
The warnings come after U.S. President Donald Trump publicly expressed support for the protesters, describing the moment as a rare opportunity for freedom in Iran. American media outlets have reported that Trump has been briefed on possible military responses but has not yet taken a final decision.
Iran’s parliament, firmly controlled by conservatives, later voiced support for the government, underscoring the leadership’s resolve to confront both domestic dissent and external pressure as protests continue to challenge the country’s political order.
