Iran has issued a stern warning that if the United States launches any attack, Israel and U.S. military bases located across the Middle East will become “legitimate targets” for Tehran. The warning was delivered by Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Sunday, Iran’s response comes amid repeated signals from U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting possible intervention in Iran, while expressing support for the ongoing protests there. As recently as Saturday, Trump wrote on social media that Iran is “on the verge of freedom” and that the United States is ready to help.
Ghalibaf stated that any strike on Iran would be met with retaliation, leading to serious consequences for the United States and its allies. His remarks came at a time when reports indicate that Israel has been placed on high alert amid fears of potential U.S. intervention in Iran.
Reuters also reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the situation, although details of their discussion were not disclosed.
Memories of last year’s bloody confrontation between Iran and Israel remain fresh. Analysts believe that ongoing protests, Iran’s nuclear program, and regional power struggles are further intensifying tensions between Tehran and Tel Aviv.