Iran Threatens Retaliation Amidst Regime Change Protests

At least 203 people have been killed in Iran as nationwide protests against the country’s theocracy continue for over two weeks, activists report. Approximately 2,600 others have been detained, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.

Iran Protests: Rising Death Toll and Threats of Retaliation

US President Donald Trump has warned Iranian leaders against using force against demonstrators, stating the US stands “ready to help.” In response, Iran threatened retaliation against Israel and US bases should the US strike the country on Sunday.

Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Iran’s Parliament Speaker, warned the United States against “a miscalculation” during a parliamentary session. He stated that in the event of an attack on Iran, “the occupied territories [Israel] as well as all US bases and ships will be our legitimate target,” as a former commander in Iran’s Revolutionary Guards.

President Masoud Pezeshkian accused Israel and the US of masterminding destabilization efforts, claiming enemies had brought in “terrorists … who set mosques on fire … attack banks, and public properties.” He urged families not to allow their children to join “rioters and terrorists who behead people and kill others,” while asserting the government’s willingness to address economic problems.

Protests Extend to Australia

Hundreds gathered at Sydney’s Town Hall, calling on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to condemn the killing of protesters in Iran. Demonstrators are seeking regime change, with some advocating for a return to the monarchy and others pushing for democratic independence.

Tina Kordrostami, a protest participant, stated, “We’re here in solidarity of what’s happening in Iran, with all the people in Iran, we want to make sure that their voices are being heard within Sydney, we’ve been fighting for the last 47 years.” She added that many attendees have family in Iran currently under attack.

Protesters have expressed growing despair and concern for their families in Iran due to an ongoing internet blackout, with some unable to communicate with loved ones for the past 50 hours. Arta Beikzadeh has not heard from her sisters and father in Iran for three days.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong issued a joint statement with Canada and the EU condemning the killings and use of violence. However, protesters in Sydney have stated the Australian government’s response is “lacking” and are calling for a complete severing of ties with the Islamic regime.