Trump leaves military option on the table
The United States has warned Iran that it is prepared to consider military action if authorities continue using deadly force against protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump is a “man of action” and emphasized that “all options are on the table” to stop what Washington calls the mass killings of civilians. While the threat remains, Trump suggested the violence may be easing.
Iran pushes back at the UN
Iran’s deputy UN ambassador, Hossein Darzi, rejected US accusations, claiming Washington is interfering in Iran’s internal affairs. Darzi accused the US of using human rights as a cover to justify political destabilization and potential military intervention, saying the country is attempting to present itself as a friend while steering unrest toward violence.
Protests suppressed, sanctions escalate
On the ground, nationwide protests appear to be slowing under a heavy security crackdown and a communications blackout. Residents in Tehran report quieter streets and less gunfire, with videos of demonstrations largely absent. Human rights groups report at least 2,677 deaths, marking the deadliest protests since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, though insiders fear the toll could be as high as 15,000.
In response, Washington announced new sanctions targeting Iranian officials accused of directing the crackdown, including the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security. The G7 nations and the European Union have also indicated plans to expand sanctions, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating the goal is to pressure the regime to bring about political change.
