Iran’s parliamentary leadership escalated its rhetoric against the United States and Israel after Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that both would be considered “legitimate targets” if the United States carries out military action against the Islamic Republic, as threatened by President Donald Trump.

In a televised address, Ghalibaf delivered the warning directly toward Washington, declaring that any American strike would trigger retaliation against U.S. military bases in the region and against Israel. His remarks were accompanied by footage from Iran’s parliament chamber showing lawmakers chanting “Down with America,” underscoring the regime’s increasingly confrontational posture.

The threats come amid mounting pressure on Tehran from both domestic unrest and international scrutiny. Since late December 2025, nationwide protests driven by economic collapse, inflation, and shortages have spread across Iran. Human rights monitors report more than 500 confirmed deaths from live ammunition used by security forces and over 10,000 arrests. An extended internet blackout lasting more than 86 hours has further obscured the full scale of the crackdown.

Israeli officials have long warned that Iran’s leadership routinely uses external threats to distract from internal instability. Analysts note that Ghalibaf’s statement reflects a familiar strategy: deflecting public anger outward while portraying the regime as defiant against foreign adversaries.

President Trump has repeatedly emphasized that the United States will not tolerate Iranian aggression, whether against American forces, allies, or global shipping lanes. His administration has also reaffirmed that Israel’s security is non-negotiable and that any attack on Israeli territory would carry severe consequences.

The exchange highlights the growing risk of miscalculation as Iran faces unprecedented internal dissent. While Tehran’s leaders issue threats abroad, their grip at home appears increasingly strained. For Washington and Jerusalem, the message remains clear: deterrence, clarity, and strength are essential to preventing Iran’s escalating rhetoric from turning into open conflict.