Tensions between Washington and Tehran intensified on Friday after a senior Iranian official warned that U.S. military installations and personnel across the Middle East could be targeted if the United States intervenes in Iran’s internal unrest. The warning came hours after former U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States was prepared to protect protesters in Iran if authorities used force against them.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of Iran’s parliament, responded publicly to Trump’s remarks, describing them as a direct provocation. He said that any official U.S. admission of readiness to intervene would make American bases and forces in the region legitimate targets in the event of what he called hostile actions. Ghalibaf added that Iran would respond decisively to any foreign aggression, emphasizing national unity against external threats.
Trump’s comments were posted on his Truth Social platform, where he said the United States was “locked and loaded and ready to go” to defend peaceful protesters. His statement followed nearly a week of demonstrations in Iran that began over economic hardship linked to the sharp decline of the national currency, the rial, and later expanded to include broader anti-government slogans.
Iranian authorities have acknowledged casualties during the unrest, with at least seven deaths reported since the protests began. Iranian officials have consistently rejected foreign involvement, framing the demonstrations as a domestic issue while accusing outside powers of attempting to exploit internal discontent.
The exchange reflects a renewed escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions following recent military actions in the region. In June, U.S. and Israeli forces carried out strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, prompting Tehran to retaliate with a missile attack on Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, which hosts American troops. While no casualties were reported, the incident marked a significant moment in the ongoing confrontation.
Trump has since claimed that the strikes severely damaged Iran’s nuclear capabilities, while also warning that Tehran appears to be attempting to rebuild its program. He said that allowing Iran to restore its nuclear infrastructure would undermine prospects for peace in the Middle East and suggested that future consequences could be even more severe.
Despite the sharp rhetoric, Trump has indicated openness to renewed negotiations. During a recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Florida residence, discussions reportedly included the possibility of further military action alongside diplomatic options.
Iranian officials have accused both the United States and Israel of using the protests as a pretext for renewed attacks. Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Washington’s involvement would destabilize the region and endanger American interests. He urged the U.S. public to consider the risks to American troops, warning that further intervention could lead to wider conflict across the Middle East.
