Iranian authorities have unveiled a giant billboard in central Tehran with a direct warning to the United States not to attempt a military strike. The mural, displayed in Enghelab Square, depicts a bird's-eye view of an aircraft carrier with damaged and exploding fighter planes on its flight deck, strewn with bodies and blood trailing into the water to form a pattern resembling the stripes of the US flag. A slogan reads: "If you sow the wind, you will reap the whirlwind."
The unveiling comes as the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and accompanying warships head towards the region. US President Donald Trump said the ships are being moved "just in case" he decides to take action, adding that "maybe we won't have to use it." Trump has threatened military action if Iran continues to kill peaceful protesters or carries out mass executions of those detained.
Tensions have spiked following a brutal crackdown on nationwide protests that began on 28 December, sparked by the fall of the Iranian currency. Activists report thousands killed and tens of thousands arrested. A more than two-week internet blackout, the most comprehensive in Iran's history, has hindered information flow.
On Saturday, the commander of Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard warned his force is "more ready than ever, finger on the trigger." Meanwhile, the US military confirmed the presence of F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets in the Middle East, and the UK Ministry of Defence deployed Typhoon fighters to Qatar in a defensive capacity.
