The United States president warned that the Iranian regime 'is crossing a line' after more than 500 deaths in the repression
Far from moderating its stance, Tehran replied to Trump's warnings with threats. The President of the Iranian Parliament stated that "occupied territories and US naval bases will be legitimate targets" if Washington intervenes. This rhetoric deepens the tension in a scenario where the Islamic Republic is facing one of its greatest internal challenges since 1979.
From Air Force One, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, was categorical: the repression by the Iranian regime against civilian protesters "is crossing my red line". With hundreds of deaths confirmed by human rights organizations, the President stated that Washington is taking the situation "very seriously" and that the US military is evaluating different responses.
"We are considering some very forceful options", stated the President, making it clear that a military intervention is part of the range of measures under consideration. The White House also confirmed that Iranian leaders have initiated contacts to open negotiations, although Trump warned that the United States could act even before a formal meeting.
The demonstrations began as an economic demand but evolved into a massive movement against the theocratic regime. According to the NGO HRANA, at least 500 people were killed, including 490 protesters. The figure reveals the magnitude of the repression, while collapsed hospitals, people wounded by bullets in their eyes, and forced disappearances show the level of state brutality.
The internet blackout has surpassed 60 hours and makes it difficult to verify the situation in real time. Organizations such as NetBlocks warn that the connectivity cutoff puts thousands of lives at risk and allows the regime to operate without international oversight.
Meanwhile, the regime decreed three days of mourning for its "martyrs" and called for a "national march of resistance", attempting to safeguard the official narrative and justify state violence.
From Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu openly supported the Iranian people and stated that "we hope that the Persian nation will soon be freed from the yoke of tyranny". The Israeli position coincides with the US vision: to pressure the regime in order to weaken its repressive structure and to support citizens who are demanding freedom.
Opposition leaders in Iran are also seeking to capitalize on the moment. Reza Pahlavi, son of the last shah, called on the armed forces and officials to join the protesters and stated that he would return to the country to support a democratic transition.
