The US Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has strongly advised the people of Iran against participating in protests amidst ongoing military operations conducted by the United States and Israel. Hegseth emphasized that the current situation renders it unsafe for citizens to take to the streets, as military actions are actively unfolding across several regions.
“Don’t go out and demonstrate when bombs are falling in Tehran and elsewhere,” Hegseth warned while addressing personnel at the United States Central Command headquarters in Florida, a statement widely reported by CNN on Friday, March 6.
Despite this immediate cautionary stance, Hegseth also suggested that an opportune moment would eventually arise for the Iranian populace, or even US President Donald Trump, to determine the ideal time for the public to rise up against the Iranian government. “Ultimately there will be a time when that opportunity is seized by those who want a free Iran,” he asserted.
He further clarified that the joint military operations undertaken by the US and Israel are specifically targeting groups responsible for the suppression of demonstrators within Iran. Hegseth believes that by weakening the capabilities of these authorities, a crucial window of opportunity could be created for the Iranian people to challenge and oppose their government.
CENTCOM Commander: Iranians Should Stay Home
Echoing similar sentiments, CENTCOM Commander Brad Cooper also issued a public advisory. He stated that military operations targeting various sites across Iran are currently underway, thereby urging civilians to remain indoors for their safety and to avoid potential harm.
“There are many US and Israeli military capabilities in motion. We are striking many targets, so the best thing people can do right now is remain calm,” Cooper emphasized, underscoring the dynamic and potentially hazardous environment.
Summary
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth urged Iranian citizens