Monday, January 12, 2026- Iran is at a boiling point. With anti‑government protests sweeping over 100 cities and a mounting death toll from the crackdown, Tehran has issued one of its sternest warnings yet: any U.S. attack will be met with retaliation against American and Israeli military targets.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker declared U.S. bases and assets in the region “legitimate targets” if Washington moves ahead with military strikes, a message designed to deter intervention even as protests rage.
The backdrop is explosive. Demonstrations that began with soaring inflation and economic hardship have evolved into the most intense unrest in years, challenging the clerical leadership’s grip on power.
The U.S. has publicly signaled support for protesters and is reportedly weighing options including military and cyber responses to curb Tehran’s brutal repression. Meanwhile, Iran has enforced an internet blackout, hampering independent reporting and amplifying fears of further civilian casualties.
For global leaders and investors, the stakes are high. Escalation between the world’s top military powers in the Middle East threatens regional stability, oil markets, and geopolitical alliances. With President Trump indicating a briefing on potential actions against Iran and Tehran warning of swift retaliation, the next few days will be pivotal.
Decision‑makers must act with calculated urgency to prevent an unintended spiral into broader conflict while supporting aspirations for peace and reform within Iran.
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