Trump leaves military option open
The United States has warned Iran that military action remains a possibility if authorities continue using lethal force against protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump is ready to intervene in Tehran to stop the violence. “President Trump is a man of action, not endless talk,” Waltz said, emphasizing that “all options are on the table to stop the slaughter.”
Iran accuses US of interference
Iran pushed back strongly at the Security Council, with Deputy Ambassador Hossein Darzi accusing the US of fueling unrest under the guise of human rights. Darzi claimed that Washington is attempting to portray itself as a friend of the Iranian people while laying the groundwork for political destabilization and potential military intervention.
Protests suppressed, death toll rises
On the ground, nationwide demonstrations appear to be slowing under a heavy security crackdown and a continued communications blackout. Streets in Tehran have been quiet, with fewer signs of fires or debris and a notable reduction in gunfire. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reports at least 2,677 deaths, while insiders suggest the real toll could be as high as 15,000 over three weeks.
In response, Washington has imposed new sanctions on Iranian officials, including the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security, accused of calling for violence against protesters. The G7 and European Union are also considering additional sanctions, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that stronger measures are needed “to push forward that this regime comes to an end and that there is change.”
