Iran’s army chief has issued a strong warning of preemptive military action, raising tensions as the country grapples with nationwide protests and sharp rhetoric from US President Donald Trump. The warning comes at a time when Iran is facing economic distress, growing public anger and heightened regional uncertainty.
Major General Amir Hatami, the commander-in-chief of Iran’s regular army, said on Wednesday that Tehran views the intensification of threats against the Iranian nation as a serious danger. Speaking to military academy students, Hatami declared that Iran’s armed forces are more prepared now than before the recent conflict with Israel and promised a “more decisive response” if any adversary makes a mistake.
His remarks were widely seen as a response to Trump’s recent statement warning that the United States would “come to the rescue” if Iran violently suppresses peaceful protesters. Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have criticised such comments, calling them foreign interference.
The warning comes amid continuing protests across Iran, triggered by an economic crisis marked by soaring prices, currency collapse and long-standing frustration over government repression. Demonstrations, which began in late December, have spread to more than 280 locations across 27 provinces and entered their eleventh day on Wednesday.
In an attempt to ease public anger, the Iranian government has started distributing a new monthly subsidy of about seven US dollars to more than 71 million people. However, shopkeepers and analysts warn that rising prices of basic goods such as cooking oil, meat and poultry may outweigh the relief, further fuelling discontent.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 36 people have been killed so far in the unrest, including protesters, children and security personnel. Iranian officials have described the situation as a “full-fledged economic war,” as sanctions, inflation and political pressure continue to strain the country.
