Iran Army Chief Warns US of Preemptive Action Amid Protests & Economic Crisis

• Iran's Army Chief, Major General Amir Hatami, warned of preemptive military action against the US, citing escalating threats and Donald Trump's comments on ongoing protests.
• The warning comes as Iran faces widespread domestic protests fueled by severe economic hardship, soaring prices, and a sliding currency.
• Hatami's appointment followed a conflict with Israel, and the warning is sensitive after a US operation involving Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
• Iran's government is attempting to calm public anger with new subsidy payments, but analysts predict continued unrest due to persistent inflation.
• Protests, now in their 11th day, have spread across 27 provinces, with at least 36 reported deaths, including protesters and security forces.

Why It Matters: Iran's military warns the US amid domestic protests and economic turmoil, signaling heightened regional tensions.