Over 500 Dead in Iran Protests; Trump Signals ‘Very Strong Options’
As protests across Iran continue to escalate, US President Donald Trump on Monday warned that Washington is reviewing “very strong options” in response to the crackdown on demonstrators. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said he is receiving hourly updates and that a decision could be announced soon.
The unrest, which began on December 28 over rising prices, has grown into a widespread revolt against Iran’s clerical leadership. According to the US-based rights group HRANA, 490 protesters and 48 security personnel have been killed, and more than 10,600 people arrested in just two weeks.
Trump Weighs Response Options
Trump confirmed that the US military is reviewing potential courses of action, ranging from targeted strikes and covert cyber operations to tougher sanctions and digital support for anti-government groups. He also revealed that Iran reached out to Washington about possible nuclear talks, and said he remains in contact with Iranian opposition figures.
“We’re looking at some very strong options… I’m getting an hourly report, and we’re going to make a determination very soon,” Trump said. He added that US involvement would depend on Tehran’s use of force against civilians.
Iran Threatens Retaliation
Iran’s leadership has issued stern warnings. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said any US attack would make Israeli-occupied territories and US bases legitimate targets. State media has blamed the United States and Israel for stoking the unrest and organized nationwide rallies on Monday denouncing “terrorist actions led by the US and Israel.”
An internet shutdown imposed for the past five days has hindered communication, prompting Trump to consider using Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite network to restore connectivity.
Voices From the Opposition
Exiled Iranian opposition leader Reza Pahlavi urged Trump not to abandon protesters, highlighting the US role in supporting freedom and democracy in Iran.
Social media videos from Tehran and Mashhad show night-time marches, fires, masked protesters, and explosions, reflecting the scale of public unrest.
Global Reaction
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the violence and called on Iranian authorities to respect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly, expression, and association.
Meanwhile, state television in Iran broadcast images of dozens of body bags, claiming the victims were involved in violent incidents. Families waited outside forensic centers, seeking to identify loved ones.
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