Iran's Parliament Speaker Issues Stark Warning to US, Israel Amid Tensions Over Protests

Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has issued a blunt warning to the United States and Israel, saying they would be legitimate targets if the US launches a military strike on Iran. The warning comes as tensions escalate over nationwide protests in Iran and escalating rhetoric from the Trump administration. Ghalibaf's comments, made during a chaotic session in parliament, were met with chants of 'Death to America!' from lawmakers. The warning was delivered in response to US President Donald Trump's threats of a military strike on Iran. Iran's parliament speaker emphasized that the country would not be limited to retaliatory measures, warning Trump and his allies not to make a miscalculation. In stronger terms, he stated that in the event of an attack on Iran, both the occupied territory and all American military centers, bases, and ships in the region would be legitimate targets. The warning comes as protests challenging Iran's theocratic system enter their third week. Demonstrations continued in Tehran and Mashhad on Sunday, with activists reporting at least 116 people killed in violence linked to the unrest. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported that around 2,600 people have been detained so far. US President Trump has publicly voiced support for the protesters, writing on social media that Iran is looking at freedom and that the US stands ready to help. The US State Department has also issued a warning, saying 'Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.' The warning from Iran's parliament speaker highlights the escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with the US military poised to defend its forces, partners, and allies in the Middle East.