Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Ready as U.S. Warships Move to Middle East

Recent tensions have escalated between Iran and the United States as U.S. warships move toward the Middle East. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard, a critical military force, has declared its readiness amid these developments. General Mohammad Pakpour, the commander of the Revolutionary Guard, emphasized their preparedness to act if necessary.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Issues Warning

General Pakpour stated the Revolutionary Guard is “more ready than ever, finger on the trigger.” This statement was made via Nournews, an outlet linked to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. The general warned the U.S. and Israel to avoid any miscalculations regarding military actions.

Background of Rising Tensions

The backdrop of these tensions involves a recent crackdown on protests across Iran, which began on December 28. This unrest was incited by the severe devaluation of the Iranian rial and lasted approximately two weeks. Reports indicate that thousands have died as a result of this crackdown.

• Estimated death toll from protests: 5,137 according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.
• Government’s reported death toll: 3,117, including civilians and security forces labeled as “terrorists.”
• Arrests during protests surpassing 27,700.

U.S. Military Movements

President Trump announced that a substantial U.S. naval fleet, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, is heading toward Iran. He noted this was done “just in case” there is a need for military action. A U.S. Navy official confirmed the deployment of these warships, indicating they are currently in the Indian Ocean.

Impact on Air Travel

The increasing military tensions have prompted several European airlines to suspend flights to the region. Significant cancellations include:

• Air France suspended two return flights from Paris to Dubai.
• Luxair postponed its Luxembourg to Dubai flight by 24 hours.
• KLM and Transavia canceled flights from Amsterdam to Dubai.

Airlines are closely monitoring the geopolitical situation to ensure flight safety. They have indicated that further cancellations may occur if tensions escalate.

Human Rights Concerns

Despite the cessation of protests, the reported death toll continues to rise. Activists have pointed out that the Iranian government’s figures often underreport fatalities from civil unrest. This situation has drawn attention to the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran, reminiscent of the events surrounding the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

The Revolutionary Guard’s statements come at a crucial time as global observers continue to evaluate Iran’s response to both internal dissent and external threats.