Iran sends chilling ‘pre-emptive strike’ threat to US as WW3 fears soar

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating after Iran’s army chief issued a strong warning in response to remarks made by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Amid rising domestic unrest and mounting pressure from both the United States and Israel, Iran has signaled that it could take decisive military action, sparking fears of a broader regional conflict.

Major General Amir Hatami, the commander-in-chief of Iran’s army, addressed military academy students on Wednesday, asserting that Tehran would not tolerate what it perceives as hostile rhetoric targeting the Islamic Republic. He accused both Washington and Tel Aviv of interfering in Iran’s internal affairs.

“There is no doubt about the hostility of the U.S. President and Israel’s prime minister toward the Iranian nation,” General Hatami said, describing their actions as a direct threat. He added that Iran’s armed forces are now better prepared than ever, surpassing their readiness during previous conflicts.

“The Islamic Republic considers this intensifying rhetoric a threat and will not let it continue without response,” he warned. “If the enemy makes a mistake, it will face a decisive reaction. We will cut off the hand of any aggressor.”

This warning comes shortly after Trump commented on the widespread protests in Iran, which have been triggered by soaring living costs and economic difficulties. Speaking on Sunday, Trump said the U.S. was “watching very closely” and hinted at possible intervention.

“If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they’re going to get hit very hard by the United States,” he stated.

Iran has been dealing with protests that began on December 28, following a sharp decline in the national currency, the rial, amid tightening international sanctions and lingering effects from June’s war with Israel.

Now entering their eleventh day, the demonstrations show no signs of slowing. Social media footage suggests that protests have spread to cities such as Shiraz, Tabriz, Rasht, Kerman, Bojnourd, and numerous smaller towns.

In an attempt to ease public anger, the Iranian government announced emergency payments worth roughly £5 per month to help subsidize basic food items, including rice, meat, and pasta. Rising food prices are widely seen as a key factor fueling the unrest.

According to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 36 people have died during the demonstrations, including 30 protesters, four children, and two security personnel. The group reports that protests have now reached over 310 locations across 28 of Iran’s 31 provinces, with more than 2,100 people arrested so far. Despite relying on an activist network within Iran, the organization has a strong track record of accurate reporting during periods of unrest.