US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran would be “hit hard” if protesters are killed, putting renewed focus on what actions Washington may take as unrest continues. With tensions escalating, attention is now firmly fixed on the White House and the potential repercussions of Trump’s next move.
Trump’s national security team convened Tuesday morning to discuss the situation in Iran and review the latest intelligence from the ground. A second meeting with more senior officials is scheduled for 4 PM EST to further assess developments. Trump did not attend the morning meeting, and the afternoon session is expected to be chaired by Vice President JD Vance.
While visiting Michigan on Tuesday, Trump told reporters that they would “have to figure that one out” when asked what kind of assistance the US might provide to Iran.
In an early afternoon post on his Truth Social platform, Trump urged Iranian demonstrators to continue protesting and encouraged them to “TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!” He added that help was on the way and said he had scrapped all scheduled meetings with Iranian officials. Tehran had reached out to Washington in recent days to reestablish lines of communication following Trump’s threats.
Trump previously said Iran was “in big trouble” after protests erupted and later announced a 25 percent tariff on any country conducting business with Tehran.
US officials have emphasized that there have been no changes to US military force posture in the Middle East, though discussions are ongoing to present the president with a broad range of options.
Among the key considerations is how to help Iranians regain internet access after the government imposed a nationwide shutdown. Elon Musk’s Starlink has been working to provide free internet connectivity, despite efforts by the Iranian government and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to block the service.
Military strike options are also being prepared for Trump’s review, though he has not yet decided whether or when to pursue that course of action.
In an interview with CBS News on Tuesday, Trump said the United States would take “very strong action” if Iran were to hang protesters. Reports suggest the Iranian regime is preparing to execute at least one protester. The Iranian government and the IRGC have accused demonstrators of being “terrorists” and said those found guilty would be executed.
AlArabiya
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