IRGC: Iranian forces on full combat readiness

Iran’s armed forces have been placed on full combat readiness, the deputy commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Ahmad Vahidi, has announced.

“The capabilities of the armed forces [of the Islamic Republic] are exceptional; they are at maximum readiness,” Iranian news agency quoted him as saying.

Widespread protests erupted in Iran on December 29, 2025, following a sharp fall in the rial, spreading to major cities including Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan and Shiraz. Reports suggest thousands of people participated in the demonstrations, which began over economic grievances but soon took on a political tone.

By early January, clashes with security forces had left at least six people dead and dozens injured, according to local sources. Iranian authorities said some protesters were armed, alleging links to foreign powers including the United States and Israel.

US President Donald Trump reacted strongly, warning that the United States could take action if violence against demonstrators continued. He called on Iranians to “take over your institutions” and described the regime’s response as “unacceptable,” signalling potential escalation.

Over the following weeks, the protests continued sporadically, with hundreds reportedly injured and multiple cities affected. 

Tensions heightened further when Iran’s parliament warned that any attack on Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei could trigger a declaration of jihad. In response to foreign threats, the Iranian leadership reaffirmed its resolve to defend the country and its citizens.

By Aghakazim Guliyev