Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared it was “more ready than ever” as U.S. warships moved toward the Middle East, amid heightened tensions following a crackdown on recent protests and warnings from Washington.
IRGC Readiness
Gen. Mohammad Pakpour, commander of the IRGC, warned the United States and Israel “to avoid any miscalculation,” according to a report by Nournews, a news outlet close to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. Pakpour stated the IRGC and Iran were prepared to execute orders from the Commander-in-Chief.
Recent Protests and U.S. Response
Tensions remain high after a crackdown on protests that began Dec. 28, initially triggered by the collapse of Iran’s currency, the rial. The protests lasted for approximately two weeks.
U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned Tehran, stating two red lines for potential military force: the killing of peaceful demonstrators and the mass execution of those arrested during the protests. Trump has claimed Iran halted the execution of 800 people detained in the protests, a claim strongly denied by Iran’s top prosecutor, Mohammad Movahedi.
On Thursday, Trump announced the U.S. was moving warships toward Iran “just in case” action was needed, stating a “massive fleet” was heading in that direction.
A U.S. Navy official, speaking anonymously, confirmed the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and accompanying warships were in the Indian Ocean.
Airline Disruptions
The increased tensions have prompted at least two European airlines to suspend some flights to the region. Air France cancelled two return flights between Paris and Dubai, citing safety and security concerns. The airline later said it would resume service to Dubai on Saturday. Luxair postponed its Saturday flight from Luxembourg to Dubai by 24 hours, citing ongoing tensions and insecurity in the region’s airspace. KLM also cancelled several flights to Dubai and Tel Aviv.
Rising Death Toll
Despite the cessation of public demonstrations, the reported death toll from the protests continues to rise. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported 5,137 deaths, with the number expected to increase. More than 27,700 people have been arrested, according to the group.
Iran’s government reported a death toll of 3,117 on Wednesday, classifying some fatalities as “terrorists.”
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