Iran Unrest: Tehran Warns US Against Military Action Over Protest Crackdown | Top Updates

Last Updated:January 14, 2026, 23:56 IST

The IRGC issued a warning, saying they are prepared to respond decisively to any perceived attacks by the US or Israel.

An Anti-Iranian regime protester burns a photo depicting Ali Khamenei, Supreme Leader of Iran, during a gathering outside the US Consulate in Milan. (AFP photo)

Iran on Wednesday warned the United States that it was capable of responding to any military strike. The warning came as some US personnel were reported to be leaving the Al Udeid base in Qatar, which Iran had targeted last year in retaliation for American attacks on its nuclear facilities.

Ali Shamkhani, a senior adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, said the previous strike on the base had shown Iran’s “will and capability to respond to any attack". Meanwhile, the US embassy in Saudi Arabia advised staff to exercise caution and avoid military sites.

Deadly crackdown on protests

Iran has faced widespread protests over the past weeks, prompting what rights groups describe as one of the harshest crackdowns in years. Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR) said at least 3,428 protesters have been killed, with more than 10,000 arrested.

The crackdown has been carried out under an internet blackout that has lasted more than five days, limiting information from the streets. Videos verified by AFP showed bodies lined up at a morgue south of Tehran, with relatives searching for loved ones.

Judiciary vows fast trials

Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, visited a Tehran prison and vowed fast-track trials for those accused of violent acts during the protests. He suggested some detainees could face capital punishment. The authorities have described protesters as waging “acts of terror".

State media reported a funeral ceremony in Tehran for more than 100 members of the security forces and other “martyrs" killed in the demonstrations. Thousands of people attended, waving flags and observing prayers outside Tehran University.

US signals possible immediate action

Military intervention by the United States against Iran appears increasingly likely, with one European official telling Reuters that action could come within the next 24 hours.

The assessment comes as US President Donald Trump warned Iran that Washington would take “very strong action" if authorities proceed with executing detained protesters. The warning adds to heightened tensions, as Washington weighs its response to the ongoing crackdown.

US-Iran tensions escalate

The Al Udeid base in Qatar, the largest US facility in the region, has asked some personnel to leave, citing “regional tensions." The base had been attacked by Iran in June, following US involvement in strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also issued a warning, saying they are prepared to “respond decisively" to any perceived attacks by the US or Israel. IRGC Commander Mohammad Pakpour accused the leaders of both countries of being responsible for the deaths of young Iranians.

(With inputs from agencies)

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