Iran’s Defense Minister Warns Unrest Could Spread Beyond Borders “Like ISIS Reached Europe”
Iran’s Defense Minister Aziz Nassirzadeh warned that instability inside Iran could extend beyond its borders, drawing a comparison to how ISIS expanded into Europe. His remarks highlighted the role of modern technology in spreading insecurity and were interpreted as a message to both Iran’s adversaries and regional allies.
Iran’s Defense Minister Aziz Nassirzadeh issued a stark warning on Thursday, stating that instability within Iran could spread beyond its borders, likening the potential consequences to how ISIS once extended its reach into Europe.
In remarks reported by Iranian state-linked media, Nassirzadeh said that both Iran’s “friends and foes” should understand that “modern technology allows anyone to generate insecurity,” suggesting that unrest is no longer confined by geography or borders.
Message of deterrence
The comments are widely viewed as a deterrent message, aimed at foreign governments accused by Tehran of encouraging or exploiting domestic unrest. Iranian officials have repeatedly alleged that external actors use digital platforms, cyber tools, and information campaigns to destabilize the country.
By referencing ISIS, Nassirzadeh invoked one of the most feared examples of transnational instability, underscoring Iran’s argument that pressure on Tehran could have unintended regional or global consequences.
Context of internal tensions
The warning comes amid ongoing internal unrest in Iran, including protests, economic strain, and increased security operations. Authorities have tightened controls while simultaneously warning that destabilization efforts could backfire on those they accuse of interference.
Analysts note that the comparison to ISIS is significant, as it frames Iran not merely as a domestic security issue, but as a potential source of wider instability if tensions escalate.
International reaction
So far, there has been no immediate response from Western governments to Nassirzadeh’s remarks. Security experts caution that such statements, while rhetorical, reflect heightened anxiety within Iran’s leadership about both internal dissent and external pressure.
The comments add to growing concerns that miscalculation or escalation could broaden existing regional tensions, particularly at a time of fragile security dynamics across the Middle East.
Iran’s defense minister Aziz Nassirzadeh said friends and foes should know that “modern technology allows anyone to generate insecurity,” warning that Iran’s unrest could spread beyond its borders, “like ISIS reached Europe.” pic.twitter.com/LVCqmvx8kd — K13 News (@K13News) January 20, 2026
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