Iran Warns of Preemptive Action Amid U.S. Threats and Domestic Unrest
Iran's military chief threatens preemptive strikes in response to U.S. warnings over protest crackdowns, as nationwide demonstrations continue.
Iran's army chief, Maj. Gen. Amir Hatami, has threatened preemptive military action in response to perceived threats, particularly remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump warning of intervention if Iran violently suppresses ongoing protests.
"The Islamic Republic considers the intensification of such rhetoric against the Iranian nation as a threat and will not leave its continuation without a response," Hatami stated.
The protests, sparked by economic hardships, have spread to 28 of Iran's 31 provinces, resulting in at least 36 deaths and over 2,100 arrests.
President Trump has cautioned Iran against using force on demonstrators, stating that the U.S. is "locked and loaded and ready to go" if peaceful protesters are harmed.
The situation has heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, with Iran's leadership facing both internal unrest and external pressure.
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