Trump leaves military option open
The United States has warned Iran that military intervention remains on the table if authorities continue to use deadly force against protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump is prepared to act decisively, emphasizing that “all options are on the table” to stop the killings. While the threat remains, Trump also suggested the violence may be slowing.
Tehran accuses US of interference
Iran’s deputy UN ambassador, Hossein Darzi, pushed back strongly, accusing the United States of directly encouraging unrest under the guise of supporting human rights. Darzi said Washington is using a “humanitarian” narrative to justify potential political destabilization and military action, insisting that outside interference is neither welcome nor legitimate.
Protests decline as death toll rises
Across Iran, demonstrations are waning under a heavy security crackdown and a continued communications blackout. Residents report quieter streets, no new fires or debris, and a sharp reduction in gunfire. Human rights groups estimate at least 2,677 people have been killed, marking the deadliest wave of anti-government protests since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, though some sources inside the country fear the toll could reach 15,000.
In response, Washington imposed new sanctions targeting Iranian officials accused of directing the crackdown, including the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security. The G7 and European Union are also weighing additional sanctions, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that the bloc aims to strengthen pressure to bring about political change in Tehran.
