Reuters reports that Iranian officials fear a U.S. strike could trigger widespread protests inside Iran, threatening regime stability.

•⁠ ⁠Officials warn that public anger fueled by economic hardship and existing unrest could rapidly escalate if Iran is attacked.

•⁠ ⁠Iranian leaders are described as more concerned about internal upheaval than physical damage from a strike, with security forces on high alert amid fears protests could spread nationwide.