U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned that the United States was considering various responses, including military options, in reaction to the violent suppression of protests in Iran, which represent a significant challenge to the clerical rule established since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi expressed readiness for both conflict and dialogue during a briefing with foreign ambassadors in Tehran. Araqchi stated that the situation in Iran is “fully under control” following an escalation of violence linked to the protests.
Communication channels between Araqchi and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, as well as traditional intermediary Switzerland, remain open according to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei. President Trump cautioned that the U.S. would retaliate if Iranian security forces used force against demonstrators. A human rights group based in the U.S., HRANA, verified the deaths of 490 protesters and 48 security personnel, with over 10,600 arrests made.
Iran has not disclosed an official casualty count, and independent verification of these figures by Reuters was hindered due to an internet blackout since Thursday. Despite the extensive protests, there are no apparent divisions within the Shia clerical leadership, military, or security forces, and the protesters lack a unified leadership. Regime officials in Iran called for counter-protests against what they deemed as external interference from the U.S. and Israel.
President Trump indicated that Iran had expressed interest in negotiating its nuclear program but also mentioned the possibility of military action. Iranian authorities accused the U.S. and Israel of instigating unrest and organized nationwide rallies. The U.S. administration was set to discuss potential actions against Iran, including military strikes, cyber warfare, sanctions, and support for anti-government factions.
There are concerns about the risks associated with targeting military installations in Iran, as some are situated in densely populated areas, potentially leading to substantial civilian casualties. Several senators cautioned against military intervention, citing uncertainties about its effectiveness. Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, the speaker of Iran’s parliament, warned of retaliatory measures in case of an attack on Iran, targeting U.S. bases, Israeli territories, and ships.
The protests in Iran commenced due to economic hardships, evolving into broader discontent against the ruling clerics and the Revolutionary Guards’ substantial business interests. The disruption of information flow from Iran continues due to the internet blackout. President Trump expressed intentions to engage with Elon Musk to restore internet connectivity in Iran through the Starlink service. Additionally, foreign ambassadors in Tehran were summoned and urged to convey Iran’s request to their governments to withdraw support from the protesters.
