Iran Warns US of Retaliation as Nationwide Protests Escalate

Iran warns the United States of retaliation if it comes under military attack as widespread protests continue across the country.
Demonstrations have turned deadly amid an intensified government crackdown and a near-total internet shutdown.
The crisis matters because escalating rhetoric between Tehran and Washington raises fears of a broader regional conflict.

Tehran, Iran -11 January 2026

What Happened

Iran warns US of retaliation at a moment when the country is facing its most serious internal unrest in years. Protests that began over economic hardship have escalated into nationwide demonstrations directly challenging Iran’s political and religious leadership.

Despite a sweeping security crackdown, protesters returned to the streets on Saturday night in cities across the country. Medical staff at several hospitals told international media that more than 100 bodies had been brought in over a two-day period, overwhelming emergency facilities already under pressure.

Human rights organisations reported rising deaths and injuries, warning that the true scale of casualties may be much higher due to restricted access to information. Authorities have sharply limited internet connectivity, making it difficult to verify events independently.

As the unrest grew, US President Donald Trump issued a public warning to Iran, saying the United States would respond “very hard” if Iranian authorities continued killing protesters. Tehran reacted swiftly, issuing explicit threats against US interests in the region.

Where It Happened

The protests have spread to more than 100 cities and towns across every province in Iran, making them among the most geographically widespread demonstrations since the 2022 uprising.

Verified video footage and eyewitness accounts show clashes in major cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, Rasht, Isfahan, and Shiraz. In Mashhad, Iran’s second-largest city, masked protesters were seen taking cover behind burning debris while security forces advanced from a distance.

A bus was set ablaze during clashes, and gunshots echoed through the streets as people ran for safety. In some videos, a figure on a footbridge appeared to fire multiple shots in different directions while others crouched behind fences.

In Tehran, protesters took over streets in districts such as Gisha, Punak Square, and Heravi. Crowds banged pots and pans, chanted anti-government slogans, and openly called for an end to clerical rule — a rare and risky act under Iran’s strict laws.

Official Confirmation

Iran’s leadership has issued some of its strongest warnings yet toward Washington. The speaker of Iran’s parliament said any US attack would make Israel, American military bases, and US shipping in the region “legitimate targets.”

Iran’s attorney general declared that anyone participating in protests would be treated as an “enemy of God,” a charge that carries the death penalty under Iranian law. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei dismissed demonstrators as “vandals” acting at the behest of foreign powers.

Iran’s police chief confirmed on state television that authorities had escalated confrontations with protesters. He said security forces arrested what he described as “key figures” during overnight operations, though he provided no further details.

From Washington, Trump said the US “stands ready to help,” adding that Iran appeared to be “looking at freedom.” American media later reported that the president had received briefings on potential military options, although officials stressed that no attack was imminent.

Why It Matters

Iran warns US of retaliation as tensions rise not only within the country but across the Middle East. What began as protests against soaring inflation and economic mismanagement has evolved into a direct challenge to Iran’s political system and religious leadership.

The growing involvement of the United States increases the risk of miscalculation. Any military confrontation could destabilise an already volatile region, threatening energy supplies and regional security.

Human rights groups have also raised alarms about the humanitarian impact of the crackdown. Amnesty International said it was analysing “distressing reports” that security forces had intensified their use of lethal force against protesters.

The internet shutdown further complicates the situation. Experts say the blackout is more severe than during the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests of 2022, limiting Iranians’ ability to communicate with the outside world and potentially concealing the true scale of violence.

What Happens Next

Iranian authorities continue to carry out mass arrests, with more than 2,500 people detained since protests began in late December, according to human rights monitors. Security forces remain deployed in major cities, and further demonstrations are expected despite the risks.

Internet access remains largely restricted to a domestic intranet, with only limited connections to the outside world. Researchers say satellite internet services such as Starlink may offer rare access, though users face serious risks if detected.

Exiled opposition figures have sought to rally protesters. Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah, posted a video message urging demonstrators to continue while staying safe and acting in groups. He claimed parts of the security forces had refused orders to suppress protests, though these claims could not be independently verified.

International pressure is likely to increase. Western governments have called on Iran to respect the right to peaceful protest, while regional actors watch closely for any sign of US military involvement.

Conclusion

Iran warns US of retaliation as the country enters a critical phase marked by internal unrest, rising casualties, and escalating international tensions. The protests represent the most serious challenge to Iran’s leadership since 2022 and show no clear signs of fading.

With deaths mounting, information tightly controlled, and rhetoric sharpening on both sides, the coming days may prove decisive. Whether the crisis leads to reform, repression, or wider conflict will shape Iran’s future – and potentially the stability of the wider region — for years to come.