US Military Presence Near Iran Sparks Warnings of Potential Confrontation

Iranian authorities have maintained an internet blackout for the third consecutive week amid ongoing tensions with the US. The Iranian government has warned of severe consequences in the event of a military strike by the United States.

On Sunday, Tehran’s municipality unveiled a large billboard at Enghelab Square, featuring an image of an aircraft carrier with destroyed fighter jets and blood forming the shape of the US flag. The message read, “If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind.”

Top military officials reiterated Iran’s readiness to engage in another war with Israel and the US if attacked similarly to last year’s 12-day conflict. The Foreign Ministry promised a comprehensive response, stating that the resulting insecurity would affect everyone.

US President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that a US “armada” is heading towards the Gulf. Iranian officials have been in contact with regional actors, including European countries, regarding this issue.

The European Union is considering listing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization following a vote in the European Parliament. Iran’s allies in the axis of resistance have signaled that they may attack US and Israeli interests if conflict breaks out.

Hezbollah’s Naim Qassem has praised Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while the Houthis in Yemen released a video showing US warships and previously attacked commercial vessels. Judicial and intelligence authorities continue to report actions against “rioters” during nationwide protests that started in late December.

According to reports, at least 41,283 people have been arrested across the country, with the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) confirming 5,848 deaths during the protests. Iranian authorities have not announced official arrest numbers, but reported at least 3,117 deaths, including 2,427 described as “innocent” protesters or security forces.

Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei reiterated his promise to show no mercy when prosecuting protest-related cases during a meeting with top judiciary officials.

Source: Al Jazeera