Iran’s parliamentary leadership escalated its rhetoric against
the United States and Israel on Sunday as tensions intensified over
Washington’s warnings of possible military action amid ongoing
unrest inside the Islamic Republic.
Speaking during a heated session of parliament in Tehran,
Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf declared that US forces and Israel
would become “legitimate targets” if Washington carries out a
strike on Iran, following recent threats issued by US President
Donald Trump. His remarks were delivered as lawmakers surged toward
the parliamentary podium chanting anti-American slogans, including
“Death to America,” in a scene broadcast live on state
television.
Qalibaf, a prominent hard-liner and former presidential
candidate, praised Iran’s security forces, including the
Revolutionary Guard and its volunteer Basij militia, for their
response to nationwide protests. He warned demonstrators of severe
consequences, vowing harsh punishment for those detained during the
unrest.
“We will deal with them in the most severe manner,” Qalibaf
said, signalling a toughening stance as concerns grow
internationally over a potential crackdown amid an information
blackout inside the country.
Turning his focus outward, the parliamentary speaker issued a
direct warning to Israel and US military assets across the Middle
East. He suggested Iran could respond pre-emptively if it detects
signs of an imminent threat.
“In the event of an attack on Iran, all American military bases,
ships, and the occupied territory will be legitimate targets,”
Qalibaf said, adding that Tehran would not wait for a strike before
acting.
President Trump, meanwhile, voiced support for Iranian
protesters, writing on social media that the country was closer to
freedom “perhaps like never before,” and stating that the United
States stood ready to assist. US media reports citing unnamed
officials said the president has been presented with military
options against Iran, though no final decision has been
announced.
The US State Department reinforced Trump’s warnings, cautioning
Tehran against testing Washington’s resolve. “When President Trump
says he will act, he means it,” a spokesperson said.
Despite the inflammatory rhetoric, analysts note that Iran’s
military capabilities were weakened during last year’s brief but
intense confrontation with Israel, which reportedly damaged key air
defence systems. Any move toward direct conflict would ultimately
depend on Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 86, who holds
final authority over military decisions.
The US military said it remains fully prepared in the region,
emphasizing that American forces are positioned to defend US
interests, allies, and partners across the Middle East.