Tehran has accused Washington and Tel Aviv of escalating regional tensions by allegedly deploying members of the Islamic State group into Iran, a claim made Tuesday by the country’s Armed Forces Chief of staff amid ongoing unrest [[1]].The accusations follow weeks of anti-government protests sparked by economic hardship and a sharply devalued currency, and come after Iranian officials allege a recent, unsuccessful 12-day military confrontation with the U.S. and Israel [[2]]. At least 646 people have been reported killed in the protests and subsequent crackdowns,according to U.S.-based monitors,as Iran vows retaliation for any perceived threats to its sovereignty.
Jakarta –
Iran has accused the United States and Israel of deploying members of the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist group within its borders to carry out attacks against civilians and security personnel. The accusation was made by Iran’s Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Abdolrahim Mousavi.
Mousavi stated the deployment followed what he described as a recent “12-day war” against Iran, in which Washington and Tel Aviv allegedly failed to achieve their objectives, according to a report from Anadolu Agency on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
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Mousavi alleged that ISIS members, whom he referred to as “mercenaries,” were sent into Iran to conduct acts of violence targeting both civilians and security forces. The accusation comes amid ongoing protests and economic instability within the country, raising concerns about potential escalation.
“Iran will not tolerate any violation of its sovereignty or territorial integrity,” Mousavi said.
He added that security forces have exercised restraint in handling the protests but will not allow “terrorist elements” to operate in the streets.
As of Tuesday, January 13, 2026, neither the United States nor Israel has issued a direct response to the allegations. Iran has been grappling with widespread anti-government protests for the past month, fueled by a deteriorating economic situation and the weakening of the national currency, the rial.
The rial has reportedly plummeted to 145,000 per U.S. dollar, leading to a surge in the price of essential goods. Iranian officials have previously accused the U.S. and Israel of supporting what they describe as “armed rioters” within the country.
While no official figures have been released by the Iranian government, the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) estimates that at least 646 people have been killed, including security forces and protesters, with over 1,000 injured.
HRANA also reports that at least 10,721 people have been arrested in 585 locations across Iran, spanning 186 cities in all 31 provinces.
(dek/jbr)
