Israel’s integrated defense shield contrasts with Iran’s heavy missile network. Advanced interceptors like Iron Dome and Arrow 3 face long-range systems like the S-300 and Bavar-373.

How can it make a difference in war? How Iran’s air defences compare with Israel’s

Amid intensifying protest in Iran against the regime Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that Israel and Iran will become partners again after the regime in Tehran falls. Calling the people of Iran "courageous" and "heroic", Netanyahu urged them to continue anti-regime protest adding that "tyranny" will end soon. Iranians are protesting the collapse of economy and are demanding teh fall of Supreme Leader Ayatolla;h Ali Khamenei-led regime.&nbsp;"We are sending strength to the heroic and courageous citizens of Iran — and once the regime falls, we will do good things together for the benefit of both peoples,” he said."We all hope that the Persian nation will soon be freed from the yoke of tyranny. And when that day arrives, Israel and Iran will once again become faithful partners in building a future of prosperity and peace," he added. Netanyahu's remark came after Iran threatened Israel and US of strikes if they support the anti-government protests.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-we-ll-start-shooting-to-they-want-to-negotiate-what-trump-said-on-iran-protest-and-will-he-strike-tehran-1768187628395">From 'we'll start shooting' to 'they want to negotiate': What Trump said on Iran protest and will he strike Tehran</a><h2>Iran Protest: What we know</h2>People of Iran took to streets amid collapsing economy earlier in December. The protest that was started by traders and shopkeepers as a part of falling rate of Iranian Rial intensified soon, with demands for the removal of the country’s supreme leader and an end to the existing regime. Iran's exiled Crown Prince and son of Shah, Reza Pahlavi has also hinted homecoming. US-based rights group HRANA said that over 500 people have been killed in the protest. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/6-indians-arrested-in-iran-during-protest-against-khamenei-here-s-what-iran-said-1768191406516">6 Indians arrested in Iran during protest against Khamenei? Here's what Iran said</a>&nbsp;Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the United States and Israel want to create chaos and disorder in Iran by ordering riots. On Jan 10, the country’s attorney general said that anyone taking part in demonstrations will be treated as an “enemy of God”, a charge that carries the death penalty. Khamenei on Jan 9 called the demonstrators "vandals" and “saboteurs." Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned the US and urged people to not be provoked by foreigners. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said Iranian leaders reached out to negotiate after US military threats. He had warned Iran of military action if protesters are killed.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu backed Iran’s anti-regime protesters, calling them courageous and predicting Israel-Iran partnership after Tehran’s regime falls. Protests sparked by economic collapse have turned into demands to remove the regime

Amid intensifying protest in Iran against the regime Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says that Israel and Iran will become partners again after the regime in Tehran falls. Calling the people of Iran "courageous" and "heroic", Netanyahu urged them to continue anti-regime protest adding that "tyranny" will end soon. Iranians are protesting the collapse of economy and are demanding teh fall of Supreme Leader Ayatolla;h Ali Khamenei-led regime. "We are sending strength to the heroic and courageous citizens of Iran — and once the regime falls, we will do good things together for the benefit of both peoples,” he said."We all hope that the Persian nation will soon be freed from the yoke of tyranny. And when that day arrives, Israel and Iran will once again become faithful partners in building a future of prosperity and peace," he added. Netanyahu's remark came after Iran threatened Israel and US of strikes if they support the anti-government protests. Also Read: From 'we'll start shooting' to 'they want to negotiate': What Trump said on Iran protest and will he strike Tehran Iran Protest: What we know People of Iran took to streets amid collapsing economy earlier in December. The protest that was started by traders and shopkeepers as a part of falling rate of Iranian Rial intensified soon, with demands for the removal of the country’s supreme leader and an end to the existing regime. Iran's exiled Crown Prince and son of Shah, Reza Pahlavi has also hinted homecoming. US-based rights group HRANA said that over 500 people have been killed in the protest. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women. Also Read: 6 Indians arrested in Iran during protest against Khamenei? Here's what Iran said Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the United States and Israel want to create chaos and disorder in Iran by ordering riots. On Jan 10, the country’s attorney general said that anyone taking part in demonstrations will be treated as an “enemy of God”, a charge that carries the death penalty. Khamenei on Jan 9 called the demonstrators "vandals" and “saboteurs." Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned the US and urged people to not be provoked by foreigners. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said Iranian leaders reached out to negotiate after US military threats. He had warned Iran of military action if protesters are killed.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu backed Iran’s anti-regime protesters, calling them courageous and predicting Israel-Iran partnership after Tehran’s regime falls. Protests sparked by economic collapse have turned into demands to remove the regime

'Israel, Iran will be faithful partners again': Netanyahu predicts fall of Khamenei, urges protesters to continue demonstrations

Amid intensifying protest in Iran against the regime and reports that several have been arrested including foreign nationals, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, issued a statement clarifying Tehran's position. He dismissed the reports of that at least 6 Indians have been arrested. Terming the report as false, he urged the public to rely only on verified sources. Taking to X, he said that the false news was circulated on some foreign X accounts. Several X users claimed that Iranian government has arrested 10 Afghan and 6 Indian nationals as a part of crackdown against the ongoing protest.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The news circulated on some foreign X accounts about Iran’s developments, is totally false. I request all interested people to get their news from the reliable sources. <a href="https://t.co/mZpxZVYBXR">pic.twitter.com/mZpxZVYBXR</a>&mdash; Iran Ambassador Mohammad Fathali (@IranAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/IranAmbIndia/status/2010409309725995216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, on Saturday (Jan 10) stated that India is closely following the developments in Iran. Amid growing protest, the Indian government on Jan 5, issued a formal advisory urging Indian citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to Iran due to the “recent developments.”<h2>Iran Protest: What we know</h2>People of Iran took to streets amid collapsing economy earlier in December. The protest that was started by traders and shopkeepers as a part of falling rate of Iranian Rial intensified soon, with demands for the removal of the country’s supreme leader and an end to the existing regime. Iran's exiled Crown Prince and son of Shah, Reza Pahlavi has also hinted homecoming. US-based rights group HRANA said that over 500 people have been killed in the protest. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women.&nbsp;Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the United States and Israel want to create chaos and disorder in Iran by ordering riots. On Jan 10, the country’s attorney general said that anyone taking part in demonstrations will be treated as an “enemy of God”, a charge that carries the death penalty. Khamenei on Jan 9 called the demonstrators "vandals" and “saboteurs." Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned the US and urged people to not be provoked by foreigners. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said Iranian leaders reached out to negotiate after US military threats. He had warned Iran of military action if protesters are killed. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Amid escalating Iran protests, Tehran denied reports of Indians being arrested, calling them false. India said it is monitoring the situation and advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel. Protests sparked by economic collapse have turned into calls to end the regime

Amid intensifying protest in Iran against the regime and reports that several have been arrested including foreign nationals, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, issued a statement clarifying Tehran's position. He dismissed the reports of that at least 6 Indians have been arrested. Terming the report as false, he urged the public to rely only on verified sources. Taking to X, he said that the false news was circulated on some foreign X accounts. Several X users claimed that Iranian government has arrested 10 Afghan and 6 Indian nationals as a part of crackdown against the ongoing protest.

Amid escalating Iran protests, Tehran denied reports of Indians being arrested, calling them false. India said it is monitoring the situation and advised citizens to avoid non-essential travel. Protests sparked by economic collapse have turned into calls to end the regime

6 Indians arrested in Iran during protest against Khamenei? Here's what Tehran said

Donald Trump said Iranian leaders reached out to negotiate after US military threats, but warned action could come first. As protests spread nationwide amid economic collapse, he backed protesters and warned Tehran

From 'we'll start shooting' to 'they want to negotiate': What Trump said on Iran protest and will he strike Tehran

As Iran faces its biggest protests since Mahsa Amini’s death, HRANA reports over 500 killed. Donald Trump said the US is weighing military options, backing protesters. Rising inflation, a collapsing rial, and tax hikes have fueled unrest, with demands now calling for an end to the regime.

'Looking at strong options': Trump's BIG statement on Iran protest as death toll reaches 544: Will US strike Tehran?

Iran's exiled crown prince, Reza Pahlavi announced new phase of Iran protest even as US-based rights group HRANA said that over 500 people have been killed in country's one of the most significant demonstration. Taking to X, Pahlavi said that the foundations of the illegitimate Islamic Republic is shaken and “freedom is near.” He was referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led Iranian regime. Earlier he urged protesters to not leave the streets, adding that US President Donald Trump is watching. He also appealed to the US president to extend help to people of Iran, while hinting at his homecoming. Hinting at US strike, he said that “International support will soon arrive.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-attempt-to-deflect-iran-accuses-washington-israel-of-igniting-protest-us-calls-claims-delusional-1768012850549">'Their direct involvement...': Iran accuses Washington, Israel of igniting protest, US calls claims 'delusional'</a>&nbsp;In the next phase, Pahlavi told protesters inside Iran to make all institutions and apparatuses responsible for the regime’s propaganda as “legitimate targets.” He said that employees of state institutions, and the armed and security forces members have to choose between two options – stand with the people and become allies of the nation, or choose complicity with the murderers of the people. He also urged those protesting outside Iran to unfurl the Shah era flag on Iranian embassies and consulates and remove the regime's "disgraceful banner.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-don-t-abandon-streets-trump-seeing-iran-s-exiled-crown-prince-pahlavi-s-new-appeal-to-protesters-1768105534485">'Don't abandon streets, Trump seeing...': Iran's exiled Crown Prince Pahlavi's new appeal to protesters</a><h2>Will Trump intervene?</h2>US President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said Iran was "looking at freedom, perhaps like never before," and added that the “USA stands ready to help.” Trump warned Iran's regime and said that if they shoot protesters, then the US will be involved. A day after, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that America supports the “brave people of Iran."&nbsp;The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging. It was also triggered by anger over the rising cost of living and a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Shopkeepers and traders were the first group who took to streets

Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi has announced a new stage of Iran’s protests, claiming the Islamic Republic is losing control. As HRANA reports over 500 deaths, he urged people to remain on the streets, called on security forces to side with citizens, sought US support

Iran's exiled crown prince, Reza Pahlavi announced new phase of Iran protest even as US-based rights group HRANA said that over 500 people have been killed in country's one of the most significant demonstration. Taking to X, Pahlavi said that the foundations of the illegitimate Islamic Republic is shaken and “freedom is near.” He was referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led Iranian regime. Earlier he urged protesters to not leave the streets, adding that US President Donald Trump is watching. He also appealed to the US president to extend help to people of Iran, while hinting at his homecoming. Hinting at US strike, he said that “International support will soon arrive.” Also Read: 'Their direct involvement...': Iran accuses Washington, Israel of igniting protest, US calls claims 'delusional' In the next phase, Pahlavi told protesters inside Iran to make all institutions and apparatuses responsible for the regime’s propaganda as “legitimate targets.” He said that employees of state institutions, and the armed and security forces members have to choose between two options – stand with the people and become allies of the nation, or choose complicity with the murderers of the people. He also urged those protesting outside Iran to unfurl the Shah era flag on Iranian embassies and consulates and remove the regime's "disgraceful banner.” Also Read: 'Don't abandon streets, Trump seeing...': Iran's exiled Crown Prince Pahlavi's new appeal to protesters Will Trump intervene? US President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, said Iran was "looking at freedom, perhaps like never before," and added that the “USA stands ready to help.” Trump warned Iran's regime and said that if they shoot protesters, then the US will be involved. A day after, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that America supports the “brave people of Iran." The protest was triggered after the Iranian rial hit a record low. Soon after, inflation hit all time high with food prices surging. It was also triggered by anger over the rising cost of living and a 2026 budget proposed 62 per cent tax increase. Shopkeepers and traders were the first group who took to streets

Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi has announced a new stage of Iran’s protests, claiming the Islamic Republic is losing control. As HRANA reports over 500 deaths, he urged people to remain on the streets, called on security forces to side with citizens, sought US support

'International support will soon arrive': Did Iran's exiled Crown Prince Pahlavi hint at US strike as protest enters 3rd week?

Iran is considered a complex military target due to its mountainous geography and deep underground "missile cities." Its defence relies on a vast proxy network, a vast missile arsenal, and the ability to block the critical Strait of Hormuz oil route.

'Missiles, mountains and proxies’: Why Iran is considered one of the most complex military targets

The unrest in Iran has killed more than 500 people, a rights group said on Sunday, as Tehran threatened to target US military bases if President Donald Trump takes action on his threats to intervene on behalf of protesters. US-based rights group HRANA said that as per its latest figures, sourced from activists both inside and outside Iran, it has verified the deaths of 490 protesters and 48 security personnel, while over 10,600 people have been arrested in two weeks of unrest, reported Reuters. Iran has not shared an official toll, though state TV aired footage of dozens of body bags on the ground at the Tehran coroner’s office on Sunday, saying the dead were victims of events caused by ‘armed terrorists’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jem-chief-masood-azhar-claims-thousands-of-suicide-bombers-are-ready-to-strike-1768149775065">JeM chief Masood Azhar claims thousands of suicide bombers are ready to strike</a>&nbsp;<h2>Iranian state TV broadcasts funeral processions</h2>&nbsp;Iranian state TV also broadcast funeral processions in western cities such as Gachsaran and Yasuj for security personnel killed in protests. It said 30 members of the security forces would be buried in the central city of Isfahan and that six more were killed by ‘rioters’ in Kermanshah.&nbsp;Trump, who has repeatedly threatened to intervene if force is used on protesters, is scheduled to be briefed by his officials on Tuesday on options including military strikes, using secret cyber weapons, widening sanctions and providing online help to anti-government sources, the Wall Street Journal said on Sunday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-more-venezuelan-oil-or-money-trump-warns-cuba-to-make-a-deal-or-face-consequences-1768138028622">‘No more Venezuelan oil or money’: Trump warns Cuba to make a deal before it is ‘too late’</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned Washington against any “miscalculation”.“Let us be clear: in the case of an attack on Iran, the occupied territories (Israel) as well as all U.S. bases and ships will be our legitimate target,” said the former commander in Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Internet shutdown enters fourth day</h2>&nbsp;Netblocks, the internet’s observatory, said on Sunday evening that the internet shutdown in Iran is entering its fourth day with connectivity to the outside world at just 1% of ordinary levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚠️ Update: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a>&#39;s internet shutdown is entering its fourth day with connectivity to the outside world remains at just 1% of ordinary levels; at 72 hours, diminished telecoms continue to impact the public&#39;s ability to access information and communicate with loved ones ⏱️ <a href="https://t.co/UOGSVMoZJj">pic.twitter.com/UOGSVMoZJj</a>&mdash; NetBlocks (@netblocks) <a href="https://twitter.com/netblocks/status/2010389646828798094?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-bmc-poll-manifesto-bjp-led-mahayuti-promises-ai-to-track-bangladeshi-rohingya-migrants-1768130229940">In BMC poll manifesto, BJP-led Mahayuti promises AI to track Bangladeshi, Rohingya migrants</a>&nbsp;“Diminished telecoms continue to impact the public’s ability to access information and communicate with loved ones,” it said in an X post.Iran has deployed military jammers to shut down access to Starlink, which was being used for connectivity by protesters and anti-regime activists after domestic internet was shut down completely.Since Starlink receivers use GPS to locate and connect to satellites, Iran has been disrupting GPS signals, and as a result connectivity is available is few locations and there are near blackouts in high-profile areas.The flow of information from Iran has been hampered since Thursday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/forces-that-opposed-reconstruction-of-somnath-temple-still-active-need-to-defeat-them-pm-modi-1768126239851">Forces that opposed reconstruction of Somnath Temple still active, need to defeat them: PM Modi</a><h2>Machado extends support and solidarity to people of Iran</h2>&nbsp;Venezuelan leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner María Corina Machado also extended support and solidarity to the people of Iran.She said in a post on X, “My deepest respect to the brave people of Iran who, at this hour, continue protesting in the streets of more than 100 cities in that country, despite the brutal repression they face.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Mi profundo respeto al valiente pueblo de Irán que a esta hora permanece protestando en las calles de más de 100 ciudades de ese país, a pesar de la brutal represión que enfrentan. Los iraníes rechazan el hambre y la opresión a la que han estado sometidos durante años por parte…&mdash; María Corina Machado (@MariaCorinaYA) <a href="https://twitter.com/MariaCorinaYA/status/2010355348410884533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;“Iranians reject the hunger and oppression to which they have been subjected for years by an authoritarian regime, a regime that infiltrated Latin America to associate with criminal systems like chavismo in Venezuela. All my strength and support in these hours, and my solidarity to the families of the fallen heroes,” she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/owaisi-shares-dream-of-hijab-clad-pm-bjp-says-don-t-try-to-become-local-mamdani-1768043421235">Owaisi shares dream of hijab-clad PM; BJP says, ‘Don’t try to become local Mamdani’</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Israel is closely monitoring the events unfolding in Iran. The protests for freedom have spread throughout the country. The people of Israel, and the entire world, stand in awe of the immense bravery of Iran&#39;s citizens. Israel supports their struggle for freedom and strongly… <a href="https://t.co/ya68R9Q1ds">pic.twitter.com/ya68R9Q1ds</a>&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/2010404031575830669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu said in a message, “The people of Israel, and the entire world, stand in awe of the immense bravery of Iran's citizens. Israel supports their struggle for freedom and strongly condemns the mass killings of innocent civilians. We all hope that the Persian nation will soon be liberated from the yoke of tyranny.”

Iranian state TV also broadcast funeral processions in western cities such as Gachsaran and Yasuj for security personnel killed in protests. It said 30 members of the security forces would be buried in the central city of Isfahan and that six more were killed by ‘rioters’ in Kermanshah.

The unrest in Iran has killed more than 500 people, a rights group said on Sunday, as Tehran threatened to target US military bases if President Donald Trump takes action on his threats to intervene on behalf of protesters. US-based rights group HRANA said that as per its latest figures, sourced from activists both inside and outside Iran, it has verified the deaths of 490 protesters and 48 security personnel, while over 10,600 people have been arrested in two weeks of unrest, reported Reuters. Iran has not shared an official toll, though state TV aired footage of dozens of body bags on the ground at the Tehran coroner’s office on Sunday, saying the dead were victims of events caused by ‘armed terrorists’. Also Read: JeM chief Masood Azhar claims thousands of suicide bombers are ready to strike Iranian state TV broadcasts funeral processions Iranian state TV also broadcast funeral processions in western cities such as Gachsaran and Yasuj for security personnel killed in protests. It said 30 members of the security forces would be buried in the central city of Isfahan and that six more were killed by ‘rioters’ in Kermanshah. Trump, who has repeatedly threatened to intervene if force is used on protesters, is scheduled to be briefed by his officials on Tuesday on options including military strikes, using secret cyber weapons, widening sanctions and providing online help to anti-government sources, the Wall Street Journal said on Sunday. Also Read: ‘No more Venezuelan oil or money’: Trump warns Cuba to make a deal before it is ‘too late’ Meanwhile, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned Washington against any “miscalculation”. “Let us be clear: in the case of an attack on Iran, the occupied territories (Israel) as well as all U.S. bases and ships will be our legitimate target,” said the former commander in Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards. Internet shutdown enters fourth day Netblocks, the internet’s observatory, said on Sunday evening that the internet shutdown in Iran is entering its fourth day with connectivity to the outside world at just 1% of ordinary levels.

Iranian state TV also broadcast funeral processions in western cities such as Gachsaran and Yasuj for security personnel killed in protests. It said 30 members of the security forces would be buried in the central city of Isfahan and that six more were killed by ‘rioters’ in Kermanshah.

Iran unrest death toll over 500, says rights group; internet blackout enters fourth day

Iran’s air defence relies on the Russian S-300 and local Bavar-373 to counter U.S. threats. While formidable against older jets, the network faces challenges from stealth technology, electronic jamming and saturation attacks.

'US vs Iran': What Iran’s air defenses can and cannot stop

A US-Iran war could push oil to $150, crash stock markets, and spike global inflation. Shipping costs may rise 50 per cent, hitting importers like India hard.

‘US vs Iran’: What would it mean for the world economy?

Iran's 2026 protests, sparked by economic collapse and inflation, have spread to 185 cities. Unlike 2022, traditional merchants have joined the unrest. With many confirmed deaths and a total internet blackout, the regime faces its toughest challenge yet.

What is really happening? How this 2026 Iran protest is different

The relationship is a Strategic Partnership, not a Military Alliance. The support provided would be material (weapons), informational (intelligence), and political (UN vetoes), rather than combat-based.

Could Iran’s allies, like Russia, come to its defence if the US strikes?

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the United States and Israel want to create chaos and disorder in Iran by ordering riots, urging Iranians to distance themselves from "rioters and terrorists." Addressing the nation on Sunday (Jan 11), Pezeshkain assured Iranians that the government will heed their demands and concerns and warned that rioters should not be allowed to disrupt society.&nbsp;"The people should not allow rioters to disrupt society. The people should believe that we want to establish justice," he told state broadcaster IRIB.&nbsp;Pezeskian accused the United States and Israel of instructing the "rioters" from abroad, adding that the same ones who attacked the country directly are now ordering these protesters to riot and sow discord in society. &nbsp;"America and Israel are sitting there, teaching them: 'Go ahead, we are here too,' he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-us-military-commercial-bases-would-be-legitimate-targets-if-washington-intervenes-1768128951072">Iran warns US military, commercial bases would be 'legitimate targets' if Washington intervenes</a>&nbsp;He further alleged that terrorists brought into the country from abroad are setting fire to mosques and beheading some people, and added that these acts of vandalism and killing innocent people can't be accepted.&nbsp;The Iranian president appealed to youth not to be deceived by these "rioters and terrorists" and emphasised that the government will hear their genuine concerns and provide solutions.&nbsp;“People have concerns; we should sit with them, and if it is our duty, we should resolve their concerns,” Pezeshkian said. “But the higher duty is not to allow a group of rioters to come and destroy the entire society," Pezeshkian said in an interview with Iranian state television.&nbsp;Speaking for the first time since the beginning of the protests after the Iranian regime's crackdown reportedly killed over 100 people, Pezeshkian also presented an economic plan to provide some respite to Iranians as the sanctions hit country continues to reel under financial distress.&nbsp;The protests, which began as small demonstrations in markets of Iran's capital city, Tehran, against the rising concerns over the cost of living and raging economic crisis, now entered their fourteenth consecutive day despite a massive security crackdown and complete internet blackout.&nbsp;Protesters have demanded the end of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led regime. Anti-regime chants filled the streets of Tehran, while Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah, has hinted that he would return and urged protesters to continue the demonstrations.

Pezeshkian blamed the US and Israel for the ongoing unrest in the country, while urging Iranians to distance themselves from “rioters and terrorists.”

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian said that the United States and Israel want to create chaos and disorder in Iran by ordering riots, urging Iranians to distance themselves from "rioters and terrorists." Addressing the nation on Sunday (Jan 11), Pezeshkain assured Iranians that the government will heed their demands and concerns and warned that rioters should not be allowed to disrupt society. "The people should not allow rioters to disrupt society. The people should believe that we want to establish justice," he told state broadcaster IRIB. Pezeskian accused the United States and Israel of instructing the "rioters" from abroad, adding that the same ones who attacked the country directly are now ordering these protesters to riot and sow discord in society. "America and Israel are sitting there, teaching them: 'Go ahead, we are here too,' he said. Also Read: Iran warns US military, commercial bases would be 'legitimate targets' if Washington intervenes He further alleged that terrorists brought into the country from abroad are setting fire to mosques and beheading some people, and added that these acts of vandalism and killing innocent people can't be accepted. The Iranian president appealed to youth not to be deceived by these "rioters and terrorists" and emphasised that the government will hear their genuine concerns and provide solutions. “People have concerns; we should sit with them, and if it is our duty, we should resolve their concerns,” Pezeshkian said. “But the higher duty is not to allow a group of rioters to come and destroy the entire society," Pezeshkian said in an interview with Iranian state television. Speaking for the first time since the beginning of the protests after the Iranian regime's crackdown reportedly killed over 100 people, Pezeshkian also presented an economic plan to provide some respite to Iranians as the sanctions hit country continues to reel under financial distress. The protests, which began as small demonstrations in markets of Iran's capital city, Tehran, against the rising concerns over the cost of living and raging economic crisis, now entered their fourteenth consecutive day despite a massive security crackdown and complete internet blackout. Protesters have demanded the end of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led regime. Anti-regime chants filled the streets of Tehran, while Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah, has hinted that he would return and urged protesters to continue the demonstrations.

Pezeshkian blamed the US and Israel for the ongoing unrest in the country, while urging Iranians to distance themselves from “rioters and terrorists.”

‘US, Israel inciting riots’: Iranian President Pezeshkian addresses nation amid ongoing protests

Iran rebuilt its air defences with the S-400 and domestic Bavar-373 after losing its S-300s in 2024. While capable against drones, the network struggles with integration and stealth detection, making it vulnerable to US air power.

Can Iran’s air defense systems really stop a US strike? Which air defense systems do they have?

Amid heightened tension with the United States over ongoing protests, Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, warned that Tehran would consider American military and commercial bases as "legitimate targets" for retaliation if Washington intervenes militarily amid ongoing unrest in the country. &nbsp;"If the US takes military action towards Iran or the occupied territories, the US military and shipping centres will be considered legitimate targets," Qalibaf said. "We do not limit ourselves to only reacting after an action has been taken," he added.&nbsp;Qalibaf's remarks come amid the Trump Administration's mounting rhetoric as protests in the Islamic Republic entered their 14th consecutive day. &nbsp;The US president on Friday cautioned Iranian authorities against using brutal force to quell the protests and warned that the US will get involved if protesters are killed and would hit the country where it hurts.&nbsp;"Iran's in big trouble," Trump said, adding that "if they start killing people as they have in the past, we will get involved. We will be hitting them very hard where it hurts, and that doesn't mean boots on the ground, but it means hitting them very hard where it hurts, so we don't want that to happen."&nbsp;Trump hinted at troubles for the Khamenei regime and reaffirmed US support for Iranian protesters on social media, saying "Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before," Trump posted on Saturday. "The USA stands ready to help!"&nbsp;On Saturday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and discussed the protests in Iran alongside the recent developments in Syria and Gaza. Rubio later affirmed American support to demonstrators posting "United States "supports the brave people of Iran".&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seize-city-centres-choke-finances-exiled-crown-prince-s-call-to-iranians-1768053253921">Cut financial lifelines to bring Khamenei regime to its knees: Exiled Crown Prince’s fresh call to Iranian protesters</a>&nbsp;The protests, which began as small demonstrations in markets of Iran's capital city, Tehran, against the rising concerns over the cost of living and raging economic crisis, now entered their fourteenth consecutive day despite a massive security crackdown and complete internet blackout.&nbsp;&nbsp;Protesters have demanded the end of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led regime. Anti-regime chants filled the streets of Tehran, while Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah, has hinted that he would return and urged protesters to continue the demonstrations. Meanwhile, the Iranian Army issued a strong warning that it will defend the country's "national interests" and that it is monitoring enemy movements in the region, Al Jazeera reported.

Amid mounting rhetoric and repeated threats of military intervention from US President Donald Trump, Iran’s parliament speaker warned that Tehran would consider US bases ‘legitimate targets’ in the event of American military action in Iran.


Amid heightened tension with the United States over ongoing protests, Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, warned that Tehran would consider American military and commercial bases as "legitimate targets" for retaliation if Washington intervenes militarily amid ongoing unrest in the country. "If the US takes military action towards Iran or the occupied territories, the US military and shipping centres will be considered legitimate targets," Qalibaf said. "We do not limit ourselves to only reacting after an action has been taken," he added. Qalibaf's remarks come amid the Trump Administration's mounting rhetoric as protests in the Islamic Republic entered their 14th consecutive day. The US president on Friday cautioned Iranian authorities against using brutal force to quell the protests and warned that the US will get involved if protesters are killed and would hit the country where it hurts. "Iran's in big trouble," Trump said, adding that "if they start killing people as they have in the past, we will get involved. We will be hitting them very hard where it hurts, and that doesn't mean boots on the ground, but it means hitting them very hard where it hurts, so we don't want that to happen." Trump hinted at troubles for the Khamenei regime and reaffirmed US support for Iranian protesters on social media, saying "Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before," Trump posted on Saturday. "The USA stands ready to help!" On Saturday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and discussed the protests in Iran alongside the recent developments in Syria and Gaza. Rubio later affirmed American support to demonstrators posting "United States "supports the brave people of Iran". Also Read: Cut financial lifelines to bring Khamenei regime to its knees: Exiled Crown Prince’s fresh call to Iranian protesters The protests, which began as small demonstrations in markets of Iran's capital city, Tehran, against the rising concerns over the cost of living and raging economic crisis, now entered their fourteenth consecutive day despite a massive security crackdown and complete internet blackout. Protesters have demanded the end of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led regime. Anti-regime chants filled the streets of Tehran, while Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the son of Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Shah, has hinted that he would return and urged protesters to continue the demonstrations. Meanwhile, the Iranian Army issued a strong warning that it will defend the country's "national interests" and that it is monitoring enemy movements in the region, Al Jazeera reported.

Amid mounting rhetoric and repeated threats of military intervention from US President Donald Trump, Iran’s parliament speaker warned that Tehran would consider US bases ‘legitimate targets’ in the event of American military action in Iran.

Iran warns US military, commercial bases would be 'legitimate targets' if Washington intervenes

US sanctions on Iran are failing as Tehran utilises a 'ghost fleet' and Chinese buyers to export 1.7 million barrels of oil daily. By bypassing the US dollar and using ship-to-ship transfers, Iran generated $43 billion in 2024, proving old economic weapons ineffective.

'US vs Iran': Why sanctions no longer work the way they once did

In January 2026, U.S.-Iran tensions have pushed WTI oil to $59, but a record 3.8 million bpd surplus limits gains. Unrest in Iran and U.S. sanctions threaten the Strait of Hormuz, risking flows to India and China.

U.S. vs. Iran: How a war could affect global oil prices

The legal term Mohareb refers to 'enmity against God' in Iran. Authorities use this charge to issue severe penalties, including execution, against protesters accused of threatening state security.

What does ‘Mohareb’ mean in Islamic Law? Why is Iran using it against protesters

The US holds overwhelming aerial superiority with 13,000+ aircraft and stealth jets. Iran counters this with a regional "air shield" of drones and S-300 missiles to deter threats.

Who would win? Comparing the air power of the US and Iran in case of a war

Amid two weeks of mass protests, Iran's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, has warned that anyone participating in demonstrations will be considered an "enemy of God", a charge that comes with the death penalty under Iranian law. The statement carried by Iranian state television said even those who "helped rioters" would face the charge.


Iran Protest Crackdown Intensifies:  Regime Warns of Death Penalty for Demonstrators 

Iran Protests: Iran Threatens Death Penalty, Labels Protesters “Enemies of God”

Iran Protests: Iran Warns of Death Penalty, Says "Protesters are Enemy of God"

Iran is witnessing widespread protests despite an ongoing internet shutdown. Demonstrations have spread across multiple cities as citizens voice anger over economic hardships and government policies. Security forces have cracked down on protesters, and the death toll has risen to 65.


Iran Protest: Cars and Buildings Torched as Tehran Protests Escalate; Death Toll Hits 65 

Cars and Buildings Set on Fire in Tehran Protest; Death Toll Rises to 65 

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