Iran sharply escalated its rhetoric toward Washington after the country’s parliament speaker warned that U.S. military assets and regional allies would be targeted if the United States intervenes in Iran’s internal unrest, as tensions rise amid increasingly blunt warnings from President Donald Trump.
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Speaking during a live session of Iran’s parliament, Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf declared that American bases, naval vessels, and allied forces in the region would become “legitimate targets” in the event of U.S. action. He emphasized that Iran would not wait to respond after being attacked, signaling a posture of immediate retaliation.
The remarks were delivered as hardline lawmakers chanted “Death to America” on the parliamentary floor and voiced support for the Iranian government’s sweeping crackdown on nationwide protests. The demonstrations, which have spread across multiple cities, have been met with force by Iranian security services.
Qalibaf specifically lumped the United States and Israel together in his warning, accusing both countries of seeking to exploit unrest inside Iran. His comments reflected the growing defiance among Iran’s leadership as international pressure mounts over the regime’s handling of dissent.
President Trump, meanwhile, has repeatedly warned Tehran that the United States is prepared to act if Iranian authorities escalate violence against protesters. Trump has said the U.S. is “locked and loaded” and “stands ready to help,” comments that Iranian officials have seized on as justification for their threats.
The exchange underscores the rapidly deteriorating situation, with sharp words on both sides raising concerns about a broader regional confrontation if unrest inside Iran continues and outside powers become directly involved.[/read]