U.S. President Donald Trump issued a statement saying that the U.S. military is considering "very severe options" against Iran amid nationwide unrest sparked by anti-government protests. The protests have resulted in numerous deaths and the situation threatens to escalate into an international crisis. Meanwhile, Iran has requested talks regarding its nuclear program.
President Donald Trump said Iran has reached out to negotiate about its nuclear program, which was targeted by U.S. and Israeli strikes during a 12-day conflict in June. Trump warned Iranian leaders that the U.S. would strike back if security forces open fire on protesters.
The human rights organization HRANA reported confirming nearly 500 deaths, including 48 security personnel. Sources indicate the actual numbers may be much higher. Video footage from a morgue near Tehran shows over 180 body bags lined up amid the wailing of relatives searching for loved ones. Local sources reported, "The streets of Tehran are soaked with blood, and officials are using trucks to transport bodies away."
Although Trump stated that Iranian officials have contacted the U.S. to arrange negotiations, he emphasized, "We may have to act before the meeting occurs" because he cannot tolerate the brutal crackdown.
International media cannot report directly from inside Iran, and the government has cut internet access since 8 Jan, making information verification difficult. As a result, Trump is preparing to discuss with Elon Musk the use of the Starlink satellite system to restore internet service in Iran after the government shut down nationwide communications to block protesters.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump has been briefed on plans for airstrikes on key targets in Iran, including digital attacks on the Iranian military, online support for opposition groups, and the implementation of the harshest economic and trade sanctions.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei labeled the protesters as "thugs," accusing the U.S. and Israel of instigating the unrest. Iran's Attorney General announced that anyone participating in protests would be considered an "enemy of God," punishable by death. Additionally, the Iranian parliament speaker warned the U.S. not to "miscalculate," stating that any attacks would immediately target U.S. bases, transport ships, and Israeli assets in the region.
The protests began over public anger about a sharp currency devaluation in late December and have grown into demands for freedoms and regime change. This is the largest protest movement since the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. Currently, over 10,600 people have been arrested amid 24-hour drone surveillance over residential areas to identify protesters.
Reza Pahlavi, son of the exiled former Shah of Iran, stated that the protests have "shaken the foundations" of the regime. He said the increased use of force against the people "is not a sign of strength but a fear of collapse."
/BBC