Iran issued a stark warning on Sunday, declaring that any US military attack would trigger immediate retaliation against American military and shipping assets, as regional tensions escalate amid ongoing protests within the country.
Parliament Speaker Issues Direct Warning
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in comments broadcast by state television, stated unequivocally: “In the event of a military attack by the US, both the occupied territory and centres of the US military and shipping will be our legitimate targets.” This declaration marks a significant escalation in rhetoric, directly linking domestic unrest to the potential for international conflict.
Israel on High Alert as US Considers Intervention
The warning from Tehran comes as sources indicate Israel has moved to a state of high alert, anticipating the possibility of US intervention in Iran. The country has been rocked by demonstrations since late December 2025, primarily driven by soaring inflation, with Iranian authorities accusing the United States and Israel of instigating the unrest.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened intervention in recent days, cautioning Iran’s leadership against using force on protesters. On Saturday, Trump publicly stated that the US stands “ready to help,” further fueling speculation about potential action.
Netanyahu and Rubio Discuss Options
According to an Israeli source present for the conversation, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the possibility of US intervention in Iran during a phone call on Saturday. A US official confirmed the call took place but did not disclose its contents.
Sources familiar with Israeli security consultations over the weekend did not elaborate on the practical implications of the high-alert status. The regional context remains volatile, following a 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June, during which the US joined Israel in conducting airstrikes.
The situation presents a complex geopolitical standoff, with domestic protests inside Iran becoming a flashpoint for potential international military confrontation. The explicit threat to US assets indicates Tehran is preparing for a broader conflict should Washington decide to act on its warnings.
