Trump urged the Iranian protesters to stay in the streets and 'take control' of the regime's institutions as accusations of thousands of killings increase
The crisis of the Islamist system in Iran reached a new flashpoint after a senior regime official admitted nearly 2,000 deaths in less than two weeks of protests, an unprecedented acknowledgment since the start of the crackdown. The official figure contrasts sharply with the 648 cases verified by human rights organizations, which warn that the real number would be "at least ten times higher". In diplomatic circles there is even mention of an unofficial estimate of around 12,000 demonstrators killed since the social uprising began, the result of summary executions, direct gunfire, and attacks by paramilitary forces.
The international community is intensifying its pressure. The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, announced a package of "rapid and severe" sanctions. There is also an almost total internet blackout imposed by the regime, a recurring strategy to prevent the dissemination of evidence of abuses and executions.
Trump hardens his stance and calls on Iranians to "take control"
Trump le pide a los iraníes que intensifiquen las protestas: 'La ayuda está en camino'
In a forceful message posted on Truth Social, United States President Donald Trump raised the tone of Washington's support for the protests. The president urged Iranian citizens to maintain pressure in the streets and move against the institutions controlled by the regime.
"Iranian patriots, KEEP PROTESTING — TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!"
Trump accompanied the message with a direct warning to those who participate in the state repression:
"Keep the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a great price."
The president stated that he canceled all his meetings with regime officials until "the senseless killing of demonstrators stops" and recalled that his administration keeps "all options on the table", including military action, although he clarified that his priority remains the diplomatic path. He also threatened a 25% tariff on any country that continues trading with Iran during the crackdown.
Trump le pide a los iraníes que intensifiquen las protestas: 'La ayuda está en camino'
The most resonant message came at the end, when Trump closed his post with:
"HELP IS ON THE WAY. MIGA!!!" ("Make Iran Great Again").
The regime faces the greatest challenge since 1979
The protests, triggered by economic collapse, runaway inflation, and the lack of civil liberties, have become the greatest challenge to the theocratic regime since the Islamic Revolution. More than 10,000 people were arrested and numerous organizations report summary trials with charges of moharebeh, a crime that can carry the death penalty.
The repression, far from containing the movement, is fueling a climate of growing internal resistance. The official admission of victims and the international pressure are amplifying the regime's isolation, while Trump's calls seek to consolidate strategic support for those who challenge the dictatorship from within.
