Iran Warns of Retaliation as Protests Continue Despite Intensified Crackdown
Iran has warned it will respond forcefully to any US military action as protests continue across the country despite an intensified security crackdown. Reports from hospitals and human rights organisations indicate that hundreds of demonstrators have been killed, with thousands more injured or detained over the past two weeks. Protests resumed overnight on Saturday in several cities, openly defying government restrictions. Iranian police officials confirmed that security operations have been stepped up. Human rights monitors say at least 490 protesters and dozens of security personnel have died, while more than 10,000 people have reportedly been arrested. The demonstrations began in Tehran over soaring inflation and economic pressure but have since expanded into wider demands for political change and an end to clerical rule. Iranian authorities have issued strong warnings, branding protesters as enemies of the state. The United States has condemned the violence, with P...