Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf issued a strong warning to the United States and Israel. He said both countries would become “legitimate targets” if Washington carries out a military strike on Iran. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened such action.

The warning comes at a time of rising tensions. Iran is facing nationwide protests. At the same time, harsh language from the Trump administration has increased pressure on Tehran.

Ghalibaf Issues Direct Threat

Speaking in parliament, Ghalibaf warned of serious consequences if the US attacks Iran.

“In the event of a US military attack, both Israel and US military and shipping centers will be our legitimate target,” Ghalibaf said, as quoted by Iran International.

Iran International reported that Ghalibaf specifically mentioned US and Israeli military bases and shipping facilities. The Associated Press also confirmed the remarks. It said the statement came during a chaotic parliamentary session.

Lawmakers reportedly rushed toward the dais. They shouted slogans, including “Death to America!”

Several unverified videos of the incident later appeared on social media. In those clips, lawmakers seemed to chant slogans together. However, HT said it could not independently verify the videos.

Iran Says It Will Act Before Being Hit

Ghalibaf made it clear that Iran would not only respond after an attack. He said the country could take action in advance.

“Within the framework of legitimate defense, we do not consider ourselves limited to reacting after an action, and we are telling Trump and his allies in the region not to make a miscalculation,” he said.

He also described Trump as “delusional,” according to the UK-based Iranian media outlet.

Later in the same session, Ghalibaf repeated the threat in even stronger terms.

“In the event of an attack on Iran, both the occupied territory and all American military centers, bases and ships in the region will be our legitimate targets.”

Protests Continue Across Iran

The warning comes as protests against Iran’s religious leadership entered their third week. Demonstrations continued in cities such as Tehran and Mashhad on Sunday.

Activists said violence linked to the protests has killed at least 116 people, according to the Associated Press.

Meanwhile, the government has disrupted internet services. Authorities have also cut phone lines in many areas. This has made it harder to assess the scale of the protests from outside Iran.

Despite this, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported that around 2,600 people have been detained so far.

Trump Signals Support for Protesters

US President Donald Trump has openly backed the protesters. He posted a message on social media saying, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!”

US media outlets have also reported new developments. The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal said Trump has been shown military options for a possible strike on Iran. They cited anonymous US officials. However, they said no final decision has been taken yet.

US Issues Strong Warning

The US State Department added to the pressure with a blunt message. “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.”

Despite the tough language, analysts say Iran’s next move remains uncertain. Any major military decision would rest with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is 86 years old.

The warning also comes months after Iran’s air defenses suffered heavy damage during a 12-day conflict with Israel in June.

US Military Says It Is Ready

Meanwhile, the US military said it is prepared for any situation. It stated that American forces in the Middle East are ready to defend key interests.

The US said its troops are “postured with forces that span the full range of combat capability to defend our forces, our partners and allies and US interests.”