US Threat of Strike on Iran Looms as IRGC Says Missile Stockpiles Have Grown

US Military Action Against Iran Could Come ‘Within 24 Hours’ Amid Escalating Unrest.

Military intervention by the United States against Iran appears increasingly possible, with European officials warning that action could occur within the next 24 hours. The assessment comes as US President Donald Trump threatened “very strong action” if Iranian authorities proceed with executing detained protesters. Human rights groups report that over 2,400 demonstrators have been killed since the unrest began last month.

Two European officials told Reuters that US preparations for possible military intervention are underway, though they cautioned the situation remains fluid and dependent on events on the ground.

The warning intensified following reports that 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, detained last week, had been sentenced to death by an Iranian court in a process described by his family as “extremely rapid,” completed within just two days. It remains unclear whether the execution has taken place.

Trump Signals Readiness to Act

Speaking to CBS News, Trump said, “If they hang them, you’re going to see some things… We will take very strong action if they do such a thing.” He added that he had canceled meetings with Iranian officials and planned White House discussions to verify casualty figures. “Once we have the numbers, we’ll act accordingly,” he said, urging Iranians to continue protesting and warning Tehran it would “pay a big price” for the killings. Trump also announced 25% tariffs on any country trading with Iran.

According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, at least 2,403 protesters, including 12 children, have died despite internet blackouts. Nearly 150 government-affiliated personnel have also been killed. Iranian officials dispute the figures, claiming around 2,000 deaths and blaming “terrorists” for the unrest.

The protests, now reported in 180 cities across all 31 provinces, began over economic grievances—including a collapsing currency and rising living costs—but have expanded into broader political demands. Analysts say the unrest represents one of the most serious challenges to Iran’s clerical leadership since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Iran’s government accused the United States of trying to “manufacture a pretext for military intervention,” insisting that such attempts have failed in the past.