Israel Raises Security Alert After Trump Hints at Possible US Role in Iran Protests

Israel has heightened its security alert following US President Donald Trump's recent statements hinting at potential American involvement in Iran's ongoing anti-government protests. According to Reuters, citing sources from Israeli security meetings over the weekend, the country is actively preparing for possible US action in Iran, where demonstrations have resulted in over 100 fatalities. This development comes as tensions escalate, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussing the scenario in a phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Saturday.

Trump's remarks on Truth Social emphasized Iran's apparent pursuit of "freedom" and affirmed that the United States is "ready to help" the protesters. The post, which has fueled speculation about military intervention, follows repeated warnings from the president urging Iranian authorities to refrain from using lethal force against demonstrators. The protests, now in their third week, initially erupted in Tehran over severe economic hardships but have since evolved into widespread calls for the ouster of the clerical regime.

Iranian officials have directly blamed the United States for instigating the unrest, accusing Washington of orchestrating the demonstrations to destabilize the Islamic Republic. In a stark escalation, Iran's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, has warned that participants could face charges as "enemies of God," an offense punishable by death under Islamic law. This threat underscores the regime's determination to suppress the movement through severe legal measures.

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Human rights reports indicate a grim toll, with at least 116 people killed and thousands detained since the protests began on December 28. A US-based monitoring group has documented the casualties amid a nationwide internet blackout that has hindered information flow and international communication. The crackdown has drawn global condemnation, intensifying scrutiny on Iran's handling of dissent.

As the situation unfolds, Trump's administration continues to signal support for the protesters, potentially setting the stage for diplomatic or military escalation. Israel's preparedness reflects broader regional concerns about the implications of any US-Iran confrontation, given the volatile geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.

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