Iran Protests Escalate as U.S. and Israel Weigh Intervention Options
As nationwide demonstrations in Iran enter their third week, discussions are intensifying between Israeli and U.S. leaders regarding potential intervention. The situation is further complicated by escalating rhetoric from Tehran, warning of retaliatory strikes should the Islamic Republic be targeted.
The possibility of U.S. military action was reportedly discussed during a phone conversation Saturday between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to multiple Israeli sources cited by Reuters. Israel is reportedly on “high alert,” preparing for a possible U.S.-led military response.
The unrest began in response to the death of Mahsa Amini, and has quickly evolved into a widespread challenge to the authority of the Iranian regime. In a desperate attempt to control the narrative and suppress dissent, the Iranian government implemented an internet “kill switch” on Saturday. A cybersecurity expert confirmed the move significantly reduced internet access, hindering the flow of information and potentially concealing abuses committed by security forces.
Adding fuel to the fire, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf issued a stark warning Sunday. He stated that both the U.S. military and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets” if the U.S. were to strike Iran. This threat was delivered amidst a chaotic scene in the Iranian parliament, with lawmakers reportedly shouting, “Death to America!” according to The Associated Press.
Former President Donald Trump voiced his support for the Iranian protesters on Saturday, posting on Truth Social that “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” This statement followed a news conference Friday where Trump asserted that “Iran’s in big trouble,” noting the surprising extent of the unrest spreading across the country. He emphasized the U.S. would respond forcefully to any mass violence perpetrated by the regime, stating, “We’ll be hitting them very hard where it hurts. And that doesn’t mean boots on the ground, but it means hitting them very, very hard where it hurts.”
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The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for miscalculation and escalation. The White House and State Department have yet to issue a formal response to the recent developments.
Fox News Digital’s Emma Bussey, Brie Stimson, and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
