Iran’s Army Chief, Major General Amir Hatami, issued a strong warning on January 7, 2026, stating that any foreign power threatening Iran or attempting an attack would face severe consequences, with aggressors having their “hand cut off.” This declaration follows heightened rhetoric and threats from the United States.
Response to US Statements
The warning from Iran’s Army Chief comes as a direct response to recent statements from US President Donald Trump. Trump had previously indicated that the United States would intervene to protect peaceful protesters in Iran if they faced violence or were killed. In a social media post, Trump conveyed that the US was “ready and loaded” to act if Iran targeted its peaceful demonstrators.
Further escalating the verbal exchanges, US Senator Lindsey Graham openly threatened Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during a television interview. Graham urged an immediate halt to actions against protesters, cautioning that “Donald Trump will kill you” if the killing of individuals demanding better lives continued. He advised Tehran’s leadership to take President Trump’s warnings with utmost seriousness.
Domestic Protests and International Support
Iran has been experiencing widespread protests for several days, initially sparked by concerns over inflation, the decline of the Iranian Rial, and general economic hardship. These demonstrations, which began in Tehran, have since spread across the country. Reports indicate that in Fasa, protesters entered and set fire to the Governor’s office, throwing stones.
In an attempt to address the unrest, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged the legitimacy of demands for change and indicated that plans to increase taxes would be reconsidered. Both the United States and Israel have expressed support for the ongoing protests. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed solidarity with the Iranian people’s fight for freedom and justice, suggesting that they might now be determining their own future.
Iran’s Preparedness and Past Tensions
Speaking to students at Iran’s Army Command and Staff University, General Amir Hatami emphasized that the Islamic Republic considers the increasing hostile remarks from adversaries as a significant threat that will not go unanswered. He further asserted that Iran’s military is now more prepared than it was prior to the 12-day conflict with Israel in June 2025, warning of an even harsher response if any adversary makes a misstep.
The current tensions have been exacerbated by joint US-Israel attacks in June 2025, which targeted Iran’s nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities. Iran views these actions as a direct assault on its sovereignty. Ali Larijani, Iran’s Senior Politician and head of the Supreme National Security Council, advised the US via X to prioritize the safety of its soldiers. This series of events underscores Iran’s firm stance against any external interference or threats, maintaining a tense and ongoing exchange of rhetoric from both sides.
