US could strike Iran within 24 hours, Tehran threatens retaliation

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated as the United States reportedly considers a military strike on Iran within the next 24 hours, with Tehran warning that it is prepared to respond.

According to Reuters, citing two European officials, a US military intervention in Iran is possible, with one source stating that an attack could occur within a day. Daily Mail reports that the White House has compiled a dossier on 50 Iranian military targets, including the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in Tehran and 23 bases of armed formations.

US President Donald Trump has reportedly discussed several severe options against Tehran. Washington has also alerted its allies in the Middle East to prepare for potential strikes.

In response, Iran has warned neighboring countries hosting US forces that American bases could be targeted if the United States attacks. Reuters cites a senior Iranian official confirming that Iran’s Air and Space Force, part of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is ready to repel any aggression against the country. The US has begun relocating some personnel from bases in the region, including military staff from its base in Qatar to the United Kingdom.

The heightened tensions follow ongoing anti-government protests in Iran, which began on December 28 after the national currency plunged to a historic low, triggering rapid price increases and social unrest. Demonstrations have spread across dozens of cities, combining socio-economic grievances with calls for political change.

Media reports estimate that at least 12,000 people have died in the protests, possibly up to 20,000, with most victims under the age of 30, and thousands have been detained. The situation in Iran remains extremely tense.