Trump signals readiness to act
The United States has warned Iran that military intervention remains a possibility if authorities continue to use lethal force against protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump is prepared to take decisive action, emphasizing that “all options are on the table” to stop what Washington calls the ongoing slaughter of civilians. While the threat of retaliation remains, Trump suggested that the violence may be slowing.
Iran pushes back
Iran’s deputy UN ambassador, Hossein Darzi, rejected the US accusations, claiming Washington is fueling unrest under the guise of human rights advocacy. Darzi accused the United States of portraying itself as a friend of the Iranian people while laying the groundwork for political destabilization and potential military action. He insisted that Iran views outside interference as illegitimate and harmful to the country’s sovereignty.
Protests suppressed, death toll climbs
Across Iran, protests appear to be waning under a heavy security crackdown and continued communications blackout. Residents in Tehran report quieter streets, fewer fires, and a reduction in gunfire. Human rights groups report at least 2,677 deaths, the deadliest wave of anti-government protests since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, though sources inside Iran fear the toll could reach 15,000.
In response, Washington imposed new sanctions targeting Iranian officials accused of orchestrating the crackdown, including the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security. The G7 and European Union are also considering additional measures, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that the bloc seeks to increase pressure to push for political change in Tehran.
